Canada is known for its commitment to family unity, and its immigration policies reflect that priority. The Family Sponsorship Program, managed by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), enables Canadian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with their loved ones. Whether you are planning to sponsor your spouse, children, parents, or other relatives, understanding the family sponsorship process can be a bit complex. Here we have got the application steps, criteria, and common challenges to help you successfully sponsor your family members to join you in Canada.
Importance of Family Sponsorship in Canada
Family reunification is a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration policy. By allowing families to live, work, and study together in the country, the Family Sponsorship Program strengthens the fabric of Canadian society. Sponsored family members become permanent residents, gaining rights and opportunities similar to Canadian citizens, which supports Canada’s values of inclusivity and togetherness.
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Who Can Sponsor Family Members?
To be eligible to sponsor a family member under the Family Sponsorship Program, you must meet the following requirements:
- Age
You must be at least 18 years old.
- Residency Status
You must be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident living in Canada.
- Financial Ability
You need to prove that you can financially support the sponsored person(s). This means providing for their basic needs like food, clothing, and housing without relying on government assistance.
Who Can Be Sponsored?
You can sponsor a wide range of family members through this program, including:
- Spouses and Common-Law Partners
Must be at least 18 years old and in a genuine relationship with the sponsor.
- Dependent Children
Includes biological or adopted children under 22 years old. Exceptions are made for children over 22 who are financially dependent due to a physical or mental condition.
- Parents and Grandparents
These relatives can also be sponsored, although there is a lottery system in place due to high demand.
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- Orphaned Relatives
You may sponsor siblings, nieces, nephews, or grandchildren under 18 years old who are orphaned, unmarried, and not in a common-law relationship.
Special Cases
- The Lonely Canadian Clause
This clause allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents who have no other immediate family in Canada to sponsor one relative of any age, such as an aunt or cousin.
Special Considerations
Certain sponsorship cases require additional attention:
- Dependent Children: Children over 22 who have a mental or physical disability may qualify for sponsorship if they rely on the sponsor for financial support.
- Divorce: If the relationship between the sponsor and the spouse ends, the sponsor is still responsible for their financial support, but the spouse’s residency status is not automatically revoked.
Key Steps in the Family Sponsorship Process
Sponsoring a family member requires following a detailed process. Here are the key steps:
1. Apply to Sponsor and Be Sponsored
- First, the sponsor must fill out the application to become a sponsor.
- The family member (applicant) must also complete a Permanent Residence application, which can be done through Canada’s Permanent Residence online portal.
2. Pay the Required Fees
- Processing Fee: $545 per applicant.
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee: $575.
- Sponsorship Fee: $85.
- Biometric Fee: $85 for individuals or $170 for multiple applicants.
3. Submit Supporting Documents
- You will need to provide evidence such as medical exams, police certificates, and biometric data. These help prove eligibility and security clearance.
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4. Submit the Complete Application
- Make sure all forms are filled out completely and correctly, and that all required documents are included. Incomplete applications are one of the main reasons for delays or rejections.
5. Track Your Application
- After submission, you can monitor the status of your application online. Processing times can vary, but they generally take around 12-24 months depending on the type of sponsorship and the complexity of the case.
Check the processing time here.
Financial Requirements for Sponsors
One of the most critical aspects of the sponsorship process is demonstrating that you have the financial means to support your sponsored family members. The IRCC sets Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) levels based on the size of the household.
- For 2 people: $32,989 CAD
- For 3 people: $40,444 CAD
- For 4 people: $49,106 CAD
- For each extra person: Add $7,120 CAD
How to Avoid Rejections?
To avoid delays or rejections, it is important to steer clear of common mistakes:
- Incomplete Documentation
Double-check that all documents requested by the IRCC are included and up-to-date.
Also read Canada Express Entry: Types, Costs, and Step-by-Step Application Guide
- Outdated Forms
Always use the most current forms available on the official website.
- Incorrect Information
Make sure that all details in your forms are accurate and truthful.
- Missed Deadlines
Respond to any IRCC requests for further information or documentation as quickly as possible.
- Medical and Police Certificates
Make sure to submit recent certificates as part of your application package.
Legal Framework
The family sponsorship program operates under several key legal frameworks:
1. The Divorce Act
Just make sure that a spouse’s permanent residency is not impacted by the breakdown of a marriage.
2. The Civil Marriage Act
Expands the definition of marriage to include same-sex couples, allowing for sponsorship of same-sex partners.
3. The Family Law Act: Defines and regulates common-law and conjugal relationships for spousal sponsorship.
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You can appeal a rejected application. The appeal process takes place through the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD), and allows you to provide reasons or additional evidence as to why the decision should be reconsidered.
By understanding each and every step, making sure that you meet the eligibility and financial criteria, and providing complete and accurate documentation, you can increase your chances of inviting your family to Canada. Family is at the heart of Canada’s immigration policy, and with the right preparation, you can bring your loved ones to join you in building a life together in this diverse and welcoming country.