Family reunification is a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration system. The Family Sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor family members to immigrate to Canada and achieve permanent residence. As a sponsor, you must commit to providing basic necessities and financial support to your family member.

Eligibility for Family Sponsorship:

The Family Sponsorship program enables the sponsorship of various family members, including:

Spouses, Conjugal Partners & Common-Law Partners: This includes both opposite-sex and same-sex couples.

Dependent Children (including adopted children): Dependent children must be under a certain age and not married or in a common-law relationship.

Parents & Grandparents: The process for sponsoring parents and grandparents includes meeting the ‘Low-Income Cut-Off’ requirement for sponsors.

Other Relatives: Such as an orphaned sibling, nephew, niece, aunt, uncle, or grandchild.

Eligibility to Act as a Sponsor:

To sponsor a family member, you must:

• Be a Canadian citizen and  permanent resident.
• Be at least 18 years old.
• Meet financial requirements to ensure you can provide for the sponsored individuals.

If you reside in Quebec, additional sponsorship requirements may apply.

Sponsors are required to sign an undertaking, committing to financial support for the sponsored family members for a specified period. This ensures that the sponsored individuals do not need to rely on social assistance. The undertaking period varies based on the family member being sponsored:

• Spouse, Common-Law Partner, or Conjugal Partner: 3 years
• Parent or Grandparent: 20 years
• Dependent Child: 10 years (or until the age of 25, whichever comes first)
• Dependent Child 22 years or older: 3 years
• Other Relatives: 10 years

Steps to Sponsor a Family Member to Canada:

1. Check Your Eligibility: Ensure you meet the requirements to sponsor, including being a Canadian citizen, permanent resident and at least 18 years old. Additional requirements may apply in Quebec.
2. Determine Eligibility of the Family Member: Confirm that your family member is eligible under the Family Sponsorship program. Eligible members include spouses, common-law or conjugal partners, dependent children, parents, grandparents, or other relatives.
3. Meet Financial Requirements: Demonstrate that you have the financial means to support your family members. This usually involves providing proof of income through tax returns and evidence of current employment.
4. Gather Appropriate Documentation: The required documents can vary but generally include:
   • Sponsor’s Documents: Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residence, identity documents, proof of relationship to the sponsored family member, proof of income, photographs, and any applicable divorce certificates.
   • Sponsored Family Member’s Documents: Valid passport, birth certificate, police certificates, medical examination results, marriage or divorce certificates, adoption papers, and additional documents requested by IRCC.
   • Additional Documents: Photographs, statutory declarations, custody agreements, and any other proof of relationship.
   • Forms: Completed sponsorship and permanent residence application forms.
   • Fees: Payment receipts for required sponsorship and processing fees.
5. Submit the Sponsorship Application: Complete and submit the application to IRCC, ensuring all forms and documents are accurate and complete.
6. Wait for Processing: Processing times vary, so you will need to wait for IRCC to review your application.
7. Medical Examinations & Security Clearances: Sponsored family members must undergo medical examinations and provide security clearances.
8. Decision: Once processed, you will be notified of the decision. If approved, the sponsored family members will gain permanent resident status.

Should You Hire a Canadian Immigration Lawyer for Family Sponsorship?

The complexity of your case determines whether you need an immigration lawyer. For straightforward cases, IRCC provides detailed instructions. However, for more complex cases, consulting with an immigration lawyer can be beneficial. They provide legal advice, ensure correct document preparation, and help address any challenges.

Why Choose Prestige Law in Ontario:

Navigating Canadian immigration can be challenging. At Prestige Law in Ontario, we understand the importance of family reunification and are dedicated to helping you achieve your immigration goals. Our experienced team provides personalised guidance and comprehensive support throughout the Family Sponsorship process.

Contact Us Today:

Take the first step towards reuniting with your family in Canada. Contact Prestige Law in Ontario to learn more about how we can assist you with your Family Sponsorship application.