Family Immigration
Family reunification is one of the pillars of Canada’s immigration system. Since the end of the Second World War, Canada has sought to welcome immigrants to strengthen its economy, bring families together, and on humanitarian and compassionate grounds. The family class is the second largest category of newcomers welcomed by Canada.
Canada, known for its commitment to family reunification, offers several avenues for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their family members for immigration. Family sponsorship programs aim to bring loved ones together, fostering strong family ties and community bonds. In this article, we’ll explore the different types of family sponsorship, the eligibility criteria for each category, and the application processes.
1. Spousal and Common-Law Partner Sponsorship:
Overview: The Spousal and Common-Law Partner Sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouses or common-law partners for permanent residence.
Eligibility:
- The sponsor must be at least 18 years old.
- The relationship must be genuine and legally recognized.
Application Process:
- Submission of Sponsorship Application:
- The sponsor submits a sponsorship application.
- Application by the Sponsored Person:
- The sponsored spouse or partner submits their application for permanent residence.
2. Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship:
Overview: Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their parents and grandparents to become permanent residents in Canada.
Eligibility:
- The sponsor must meet income requirements.
- Commit to financially supporting the sponsored individuals.
Application Process:
- Interest to Sponsor:
- Sponsors express their interest to sponsor during the annual invitation period.
- Application Submission:
- Invited sponsors submit a complete sponsorship application.
- Application by the Sponsored Person:
- The sponsored individuals submit their application for permanent residence.
3. Dependent Child and Adopted Child Sponsorship:
Overview: Parents in Canada can sponsor their dependent children for permanent residence. This category also includes adopted children.
Eligibility:
- Children must meet the definition of dependent.
- Age limits may apply.
Application Process:
- Submission of Sponsorship Application:
- The parent in Canada submits a sponsorship application.
- Application by the Sponsored Child:
- The sponsored child submits their application for permanent residence.
4. Other Relative Sponsorship:
Overview: Canadian citizens and permanent residents can also sponsor other relatives, such as siblings, nieces, nephews, or grandchildren.
Eligibility:
- Limited eligibility, and criteria may vary.
Application Process:
- Submission of Sponsorship Application:
- The sponsor submits a sponsorship application.
- Application by the Sponsored Person:
- The sponsored relative submits their application for permanent residence.
5. Conjugal Partner Sponsorship:
Overview: The Conjugal Partner Sponsorship program is for partners who cannot live together due to exceptional circumstances beyond their control.
Eligibility:
- Must demonstrate a genuine and continuing relationship.
- Unable to live together or marry due to immigration barriers, marital status, or sexual orientation.
Application Process:
- Submission of Sponsorship Application:
- The sponsor submits a sponsorship application.
- Application by the Sponsored Person:
- The sponsored conjugal partner submits their application for permanent residence.
Conclusion: Strengthening Family Bonds Through Sponsorship
Navigating the family sponsorship process in Canada requires a clear understanding of the eligibility criteria and specific application procedures for each category. As families aspire to reunite and build a shared future in Canada, these sponsorship programs stand as a testament to the nation’s commitment to family unity.
Prospective sponsors should carefully review the requirements, gather necessary documentation, and seek guidance if needed. By following the prescribed steps, families can embark on a journey that leads to the joyous reunification on Canadian soil—a place where family values and multiculturalism are celebrated
. If you are considering sponsoring a family member, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest updates and changes in immigration policies. Additionally, consulting with immigration professionals or accessing official resources can provide valuable guidance throughout the application process.
As Canada continues to uphold its commitment to family reunification, these sponsorship programs offer a pathway for families to build a shared future and contribute to the diverse tapestry of Canadian society. By embracing the values of compassion, inclusivity, and familial support, families can navigate the immigration landscape with confidence and look forward to creating lasting memories together in the welcoming embrace of Canada.
Family category Service fee
$500
$1800
$1600
$500
How does the spouse sponsorship application work
You can become a sponsor if you are:
- at least 18 years old
- a Canadian citizen, a person registered in Canada as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act or a permanent resident,
- living in Canada:
- if you’re a Canadian citizen living outside Canada, you must show that you plan to live in Canada when your sponsored relative becomes a permanent resident.
- You can’t sponsor someone if you’re a permanent resident living outside of Canada.
- able to prove that you are not receiving social assistance for reasons other than a disability, and;
You must also be able to show that you can provide basic needs for:
- yourself,
- your spouse or partner,
- your spouse or partner’s dependent child(ren) (if applicable)
- your dependent child(ren) (if you’re sponsoring only your dependent child)
You may not be able to sponsor if you…
- are sponsoring a spouse or partner but you signed an undertaking for a previous spouse or partner and it hasn’t been three years since they became a permanent resident,
- previously sponsored someone and did not pay back any social assistance that they received while the undertaking was in place.
- are in default on an immigration loan or a performance bond
- did not pay court-ordered alimony or child support
- have declared bankruptcy which has not been discharged
- were convicted of
- an offence of a sexual nature,
- a violent crime,
- an offence against a relative that caused bodily harm or
- threatened or attempted to commit any of the above offences—depending on the nature of the offence, how long ago it happened and if you received a pardon
- are sponsoring a spouse or partner and you were previously sponsored as a spouse, common-law or conjugal partner and became a permanent resident of Canada less than five years ago,
- are under a removal order,
- are in a penitentiary, jail, reformatory or prison,
- have already applied to sponsor your current spouse or partner and haven’t received a decision.
Gather the documents:
- Complete the required forms
- Photo
- Police certificates
- Marriage certificate or common-law evidence
- Passport, ID, and birth certificates
- Proof of income (employment letters, CRA notice of assessment…)
- Proof of relationship (wedding photos, joint accounts, joint lease…)
Once you submit a complete package it usually takes the IRCC about two months to check your application for completeness, if you submitted everything right the IRCC will inform you and put your application in process, if something is missing or wasn’t filled right, IRCC will return your application to resubmit it and you will have to wait another two months again before your application is put under process.
That’s why it is important to double-check everything and make sure you submit a complete application in order to avoid delays or rejection.
Once IRCC confirms that they have received a complete application, you should expect a separate email containing an application number.
Once you get that it is highly recommended that you create a GCkey account and link your application to get the updates quickly.