Canada is one of the most immigrant-friendly countries in the world, with a strong commitment to family reunification. The Family Sponsorship Program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their close relatives to Canada, helping them obtain permanent residency (PR). This program is an essential part of Canada’s immigration system, ensuring families can stay together while contributing to the country’s social and economic development.
In this comprehensive guide, we will cover everything you need to know about family sponsorship for Canadian immigration, including eligibility requirements, the application process, required documents, processing times, and expert tips for a successful application.
What Is Family Sponsorship in Canada?
The Family Sponsorship Program is an immigration pathway that enables Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor certain family members to become permanent residents of Canada. Once sponsored, family members can live, work, and study in Canada with full permanent residency benefits.
The program is managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and applies to eligible sponsors who meet the financial and legal obligations of supporting their sponsored relatives.
Who Can Sponsor a Family Member for Canadian Immigration?
Not everyone can sponsor a family member to Canada. To be eligible, a sponsor must meet the following requirements:
✔ Be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident.
✔ Be at least 18 years old.
✔ Reside in Canada or plan to return to Canada if currently living abroad.
✔ Meet financial requirements (if applicable) to support the sponsored family member.
✔ Not be receiving social assistance (except for disability benefits).
✔ Commit to financially supporting the sponsored family member for a specific period (undertaking period).
If a sponsor meets these conditions, they can apply to bring eligible family members to Canada.
Who Can Be Sponsored Under the Family Sponsorship Program?
Canada allows sponsors to bring certain categories of family members under the Family Sponsorship Program. These include:
1. Sponsoring a Spouse, Common-Law Partner, or Conjugal Partner
✔ You can sponsor:
- A legally married spouse.
- A common-law partner (someone you have lived with for at least 12 consecutive months in a marriage-like relationship).
- A conjugal partner (a person with whom you have a serious relationship but cannot live together due to barriers such as religious or cultural restrictions).
✔ The spouse or partner must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Pass medical, criminal, and background checks.
✔ Processing time: 12–18 months (varies by country).
2. Sponsoring Dependent Children
✔ You can sponsor your biological or adopted children if they:
- Are under 22 years old.
- Are not married or in a common-law relationship.
- Are financially dependent on you.
✔ If your child is 22 years or older, they can still be sponsored if:
- They have a disability or medical condition preventing them from supporting themselves.
✔ Processing time: 12–24 months.
3. Sponsoring Parents and Grandparents (PGP Program)
✔ You can sponsor your parents or grandparents to become permanent residents.
✔ The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) has a lottery system where IRCC randomly selects eligible sponsors to submit full applications.
✔ Financial eligibility:
- You must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) requirement to prove you can support them financially.
- Provide income proof for the last three years (Notice of Assessments from the Canada Revenue Agency).
✔ Processing time: 24–36 months.
✔ Alternative option: If you are not selected for the PGP, you can apply for a Super Visa, which allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit.
4. Sponsoring Other Relatives (Orphaned Siblings, Nephews, Nieces, or Grandchildren)
✔ You can sponsor an orphaned sibling, nephew, niece, or grandchild if:
- They are under 18 years old.
- They have no living parents.
- They are not married or in a common-law relationship.
✔ Other relatives cannot be sponsored unless under special circumstances.
✔ Processing time: 24+ months.
How to Apply for Family Sponsorship in Canada: Step-by-Step Process
The sponsorship process involves two main applications:
- The sponsor applies to IRCC to become an approved sponsor.
- The sponsored family member applies for Canadian permanent residency.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to successfully applying for family sponsorship:
Step 1: Confirm Your Eligibility as a Sponsor
✔ Ensure you meet the eligibility criteria to be a sponsor.
✔ If sponsoring parents or grandparents, check the income requirements.
Step 2: Gather Required Documents
You need to prepare the following:
✔ Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residency.
✔ Marriage certificate or proof of relationship (for spouse/partner sponsorship).
✔ Birth certificates (for children sponsorship).
✔ Financial documents (for parent sponsorship).
✔ Police clearance certificate (for sponsored individuals).
✔ Medical examination records (for sponsored individuals).
Ensure all documents are clear, translated into English or French, and certified if required.
Step 3: Submit the Sponsorship Application
✔ Download and complete the sponsorship forms from the IRCC website.
✔ Pay the processing fee online (fees vary depending on the type of sponsorship).
✔ Submit your sponsorship application package to IRCC.
✔ Application fees:
- Spouse/Partner Sponsorship: CAD 1,080
- Child Sponsorship: CAD 150 per child
- Parent Sponsorship: CAD 1,080 per parent
Step 4: The Sponsored Family Member Submits Their PR Application
✔ Once IRCC approves the sponsor, the sponsored family member must submit their permanent residency application.
✔ This includes:
- Medical exam.
- Police certificate.
- Biometrics submission.
✔ Processing time varies based on the type of sponsorship and the applicant’s home country.
Step 5: Wait for IRCC’s Decision and Provide Additional Information (If Requested)
✔ IRCC may request:
- Additional documents.
- An interview with the sponsor and the sponsored applicant.
✔ If approved, the family member will receive Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can travel to Canada.
Processing Times for Family Sponsorship Applications
✔ Spouse/Partner Sponsorship: 12–18 months
✔ Dependent Child Sponsorship: 12–24 months
✔ Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship: 24–36 months
✔ Orphaned Relative Sponsorship: 24+ months
Processing times vary based on country of residence and application complexity.
Tips for a Successful Sponsorship Application
✔ Ensure Accuracy – Double-check all forms and documents before submission.
✔ Submit Complete Documents – Missing information can delay the application.
✔ Meet Financial Requirements – If applicable, provide clear proof of income.
✔ Prepare for an Interview (If Required) – Answer questions honestly and confidently.
✔ Monitor Application Status – Track your application on the IRCC website.
What Happens If Your Sponsorship Application Is Denied?
✔ You can appeal the decision to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) if you believe IRCC made an error.
✔ Ensure you understand why the application was refused before reapplying.
✔ Seek legal assistance or immigration consultant support if needed.
Final Thoughts on Family Sponsorship for Canadian Immigration
The Family Sponsorship Program is an effective way to reunite families in Canada. By following the correct application process, meeting eligibility requirements, and submitting a complete and well-prepared application, you can increase your chances of a successful sponsorship application.
✔ Start early, gather the necessary documents, and follow IRCC guidelines carefully to ensure a smooth immigration process