Child or Other Dependent Sponsorship
Reunite your family by sponsoring your dependent children or other eligible dependents for permanent residency in Canada
Start Your ApplicationPurpose
To reunite families by allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their dependent children or other eligible dependents to live with them permanently in Canada.
Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors
- Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18 or older
- Must reside in Canada or plan to return to Canada when the sponsored dependent becomes a permanent resident
Restrictions
- Cannot be in prison, bankrupt, under a removal order, or charged with a serious offense
- Must be able to provide financial support for the sponsored dependent
Eligibility Criteria for Sponsored Dependents
Dependent Children
Under 22 Years of Age
Must be under 22 years of age and not married or in a common-law relationship
Over 22 Years of Age
If over 22, must have depended substantially on the parent's financial support since before age 22 and cannot support themselves due to a mental or physical condition
Other Eligible Dependents
Includes various family members such as siblings, nieces, or nephews in specific humanitarian circumstances. Specific criteria apply and each case is evaluated individually.
Application Process
Obtain Application Package
Download the appropriate application package from the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Prepare Required Documents
Include proof of relationship (birth certificate, adoption papers), identity documents, and any other relevant supporting documentation.
Complete Application and Pay Fees
Fees include the sponsorship fee, principal applicant processing fee, and right of permanent residence fee if applicable.
Submit Application
Ensure all forms are filled out accurately and submitted with supporting documents and fees.
Processing
Application processing times can vary depending on the specific case and location of the dependents.
Important Considerations
Financial Undertaking
Sponsors must sign an undertaking to financially support the dependent for a period (usually 10 years for children).
Application Assessment
Applications are carefully assessed to ensure the relationship is genuine and all criteria are met.
Benefits
- Grants permanent residency to sponsored dependents
- Allows dependents to live, study, and potentially work in Canada
- Facilitates family reunification
- Provides access to social benefits
Restrictions
- The dependent must not be inadmissible to Canada for reasons such as health or criminal history
- Must maintain relationship status during the application process
- Sponsors must meet financial requirements throughout the undertaking period