Dependent Child Sponsorship
Sponsor your biological or adopted children under 22 years old, or older if dependent due to physical or mental condition. No minimum income requirement.
Benefits of Dependent Child Sponsorship
Why dependent child sponsorship is essential for family unity
No Income Requirement
No minimum income requirement for dependent child sponsorship applications.
Family Reunification
Bring your children to Canada to live with you permanently as a family unit.
Educational Opportunities
Your children will have access to Canada's excellent public education system.
Permanent Status
Your sponsored children become permanent residents with full rights and benefits.
Dependent Child Eligibility Requirements
Who qualifies as a dependent child for sponsorship purposes
Age Requirements
Children must be under 22 years old and not married or in common-law relationship.
Key Details:
- Under 22 years old at time of application
- Not married or in common-law relationship
- Age locked at time of complete application
Dependency Criteria
Children 22+ may qualify if dependent on parent due to physical or mental condition.
Key Details:
- Financially dependent on parent since before age 22
- Unable to support themselves due to condition
- Medical evidence of dependency required
Relationship Proof
Must prove parent-child relationship through birth certificates or adoption documents.
Key Details:
- Birth certificate showing parent's name
- Adoption papers (if applicable)
- DNA testing (in exceptional cases)
Age Lock-in Rule
A child's age is "locked in" at the time you submit a complete application. Even if they turn 22 during processing, they remain eligible if they were under 22 when the complete application was submitted.
Application Success Tips
Key strategies for successful dependent child sponsorship
Document Age at Application
Child's age is locked at the time of complete application submission, not at decision time.
Include All Children
Include all dependent children in one application, even if some are not accompanying initially.
Prepare for Interviews
Be prepared for potential interviews to verify relationship and dependency claims.
Explore Other Family Sponsorship Types
Compare different family sponsorship options in Canada
Ready to Sponsor Your Dependent Children?
Get expert guidance on dependent child sponsorship requirements, age criteria, and application strategies for family reunification.