Sponsor Your Family to Immigrate to Canada

Canada welcomes over 100,000 immigrants every year through family sponsorship programs, emphasizing family reunification as a cornerstone of its immigration system.

Who Can You Sponsor?

  • Spouse or Common-law Partner: You can sponsor your legally married spouse, common-law partner (if you’ve lived together for at least 12 months), or conjugal partner staying outside Canada.

  • Dependent Children: Includes your biological or adopted children under 22, or over 22 if they have a physical or mental condition that prevents them from supporting themselves.

  • Parents and Grandparents: Through the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program or the Super Visa Program, you can bring your parents and grandparents to Canada.

Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors

To sponsor a family member, any applicant must be eligible:

  • The applicant must be a permanent resident or Canadian citizen.

  • Be at least 18 years old.

  • Demonstrate the financial ability to support your sponsored family member for a specific period.

How to Apply for Family Sponsorship

  1. Check Eligibility: Ensure both you and your family members meet the eligibility criteria.

  2. Submit Your Application: Apply to the IRCC, and if in Quebec, to MIFI as well. Submit both the sponsorship and permanent residence applications together.

  3. Pay Fees: Complete the payment for application processing.

  4. Mail Your Application: Send your completed application to the designated address.

Income and Sponsorship Commitment

As a sponsor, you must sign an agreement to support your family member’s basic needs. Depending on whom you are sponsoring, you may need to meet or exceed the Low Income Cut-off (LICO). In Quebec, additional income and support requirements apply.

Types of Sponsorship Applications

  • Inland Sponsorship: If your spouse or partner is already in Canada, they can apply for an open work permit while the sponsorship is processed.

  • Outland Sponsorship: For family members living outside Canada, applications are processed through Canadian Embassies or Consulates.

Parents' and Grandparents' Sponsorship

For parents and grandparents, the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program or the Super Visa Program allows extended visits or permanent residence.

Conclusion

Reuniting with your family in Canada is a significant and fulfilling process. Ensure you meet all eligibility requirements and follow the application steps carefully. If needed, consult with an immigration expert to help navigate the process.