Sponsor family member

Sponsor a Family Member to Canada: A Guide to a Successful Family Sponsorship

omprehensive guide on sponsoring a family member to Canada in 2024.

Looking to bring your loved ones closer to you in Canada? Sponsoring a family member to Canada is a vital part of Canadian immigration, allowing permanent residents and citizens to reunite with their families through the Canada family sponsorship program. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know about how to sponsor a family member to Canada. From eligibility requirements to application steps, this article provides a comprehensive overview of the family sponsorship process.

Table of Contents

What is Family Sponsorship in Canada?

The Canada family sponsorship program is part of the country’s immigration policy that enables Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their close family members to Canada. This program reflects Canada’s commitment to family reunification and ensures that families can stay together in Canada.

Eligibility Requirements for Sponsorship

To sponsor a family member to Canada, you must meet specific requirements:

  • Be at least 18 years old.
  • Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
  • Demonstrate the financial ability to support your sponsored family member.
  • Not be receiving social assistance (except for disability).

Additional Requirements for Family Members:

  • Must pass medical, criminal, and background checks.
  • Must have a genuine relationship with the sponsor.

How to Sponsor a Family Member to Canada

The process to sponsor a family member to Canada involves several steps, which we’ll break down here:

  1. Determine Eligibility: Ensure you and the family member you wish to sponsor meet the eligibility criteria.
  2. Prepare Documents: Gather necessary documents, including proof of relationship, financial documents, and identification.
  3. Submit the Application: Apply through Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
  4. Wait for Processing: Wait for IRCC to process your application and follow up if additional information is required.
  5. Approval and Arrival: If approved, your family member will receive instructions on traveling to Canada.

Types of Family Sponsorship

There are several categories within the Canada family sponsorship program based on the family member you wish to sponsor:

Sponsor Spouse to Canada

Spousal Sponsorship allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their spouse to Canada. The spouse must be legally married to the sponsor or in a common-law partnership.

Parent Sponsorship Canada

Parent sponsorship is available under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents to join them in Canada.

Sponsor Dependent Children to Canada

If you have dependent children, you may sponsor them to join you in Canada. Dependent children must be under the age of 22 and not married or in a common-law relationship.

Canadian Immigration Sponsorship Application Process

The application process for Canada family sponsorship involves several steps:

  1. Submit Sponsorship and Permanent Residence Applications: This includes both applications for the sponsor and the applicant.
  2. Biometric and Medical Exams: Family members may need to complete medical exams and provide biometric data.
  3. Application Processing: IRCC reviews the application and conducts background checks.
  4. Final Decision: If approved, the family member can enter Canada as a permanent resident.

Canada Family Sponsorship Income Requirements

To sponsor family members, Canadian citizens or permanent residents must meet certain income requirements:

  • Demonstrate the ability to support the family member financially.
  • Provide proof of income for the last three years for Parent and Grandparent sponsorships.
  • Meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) levels as set by IRCC.

Cost of Sponsoring a Family Member to Canada

The cost to sponsor a family member to Canada typically includes:

  • Processing Fees: Varies by family member type (spouse, dependent children, parents).
  • Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): Payable if the application is approved.

Processing Times for Family Sponsorship

Processing times for family sponsorship applications vary based on the type of family member and IRCC’s workload. On average:

  • Spousal Sponsorship: 12 months.
  • Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship: 20–24 months.
  • Dependent Child Sponsorship: 9–12 months.

What to Do If Your Application is Denied

If your family sponsorship application is denied, consider the following options:

  1. Review the Decision: Understand the reasons for denial, which IRCC will provide in the refusal letter.
  2. File an Appeal: You may be eligible to appeal the decision through the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD).
  3. Reapply: Correct any issues in your previous application and submit a new one if necessary.

FAQ on Family Sponsorship in Canada

How Much Does it Cost to Sponsor a Family Member to Canada?

The cost varies based on the family member type, typically ranging from $1,050 to $1,475 for a spouse, plus additional costs for other family members.

How to Apply for Canada Family Reunification?

To apply for family reunification in Canada, follow the application process, ensure eligibility, and prepare the necessary documents as outlined above.

What are the Sponsorship Requirements for Parents and Grandparents?

You must meet income requirements, agree to financially support the sponsored parent or grandparent, and complete an undertaking agreement with IRCC.