Canada is known for its commitment to keeping families together. If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you have the opportunity to sponsor certain family members to join you in Canada through the Family Sponsorship Program. This program allows eligible relatives to become permanent residents, enabling them to live, work, and study in Canada.
This guide covers key aspects of the Family Sponsorship Program, including:
- Who can be sponsored
- Eligibility criteria for sponsors and sponsored persons
- Step-by-step application process
- Processing times and fees
- Benefits of family sponsorship
- Common reasons for application refusal and how to avoid them
What is the Canada Family Sponsorship Program?
The Family Sponsorship Program is part of Canada’s immigration system, designed to help Canadian citizens and permanent residents bring their loved ones to Canada. As a sponsor, you agree to provide financial support for your family member when they arrive, ensuring they do not require government financial assistance.
In return, sponsored individuals gain the right to live permanently in Canada, enjoying benefits such as healthcare, education, and employment opportunities.
Who Can You Sponsor?
The following family members are eligible for sponsorship under the Family Sponsorship Program:
Spouse or Common-Law Partner
- Must be legally married to the sponsor (spouse) or in a common-law relationship (living together for at least 12 months in a marriage-like relationship).
- If not married, a conjugal partner may be sponsored if they have been in a long-term relationship with the sponsor but cannot live together due to legal or immigration barriers.
Dependent Children
- Must be under 22 years old and unmarried.
- If over 22, they must depend on parents due to a physical or mental condition.
Parents and Grandparents (PGP Program)
- Parents and grandparents can be sponsored, but this program operates through an invitation system.
- If sponsorship under PGP is not possible, they may be eligible for a Super Visa, allowing them to stay in Canada for extended periods.
Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors
To be eligible to sponsor a family member, the sponsor must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident.
- Reside in Canada (or plan to return when the sponsored family member arrives).
- Have no criminal convictions that could affect sponsorship eligibility.
- Not receive government social assistance (except for disability benefits).
- Be financially capable of supporting the sponsored family member.
If the sponsor is a permanent resident, they must be physically present in Canada to submit a sponsorship application.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Family Sponsorship in Canada
Step 1: Confirm Eligibility and Gather Required Documents
Before applying, verify that all sponsorship requirements are met. The following key documents are required:
- Proof of status in Canada (PR card, Canadian passport, or citizenship certificate).
- Marriage certificate or proof of common-law relationship (if applicable).
- Birth certificates (for dependent children).
- Proof of financial ability (for sponsoring parents or grandparents).
Step 2: Submit Sponsorship Application
Two applications must be submitted:
- Sponsorship Application: Confirms that the sponsor meets all eligibility requirements.
- Permanent Residence Application: Submitted on behalf of the family member being sponsored.
Applications should be submitted to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). All forms must be signed and completed to avoid delays.
Step 3: Pay the Application Fees
The following fees apply:
- Processing Fees: Cover sponsorship and PR application processing.
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): Mandatory before PR is approved.
- Biometric Fees: If required.
- Police Clearance and Medical Fees: If applicable.
The estimated cost for sponsoring a spouse or partner is approximately CAD 1,080 (fees may vary).
Step 4: Wait for Processing and Submit Additional Documents
IRCC will review the application and may request additional documents, including:
- Police clearance certificates from all countries where the sponsored family member has lived for more than six months.
- Medical examination reports to ensure they meet Canadian health standards.
Estimated processing times:
- Spouse/Common-law partner sponsorship: ~ 12 months
- Parents/Grandparents sponsorship: ~ 20-24 months
- Dependent child sponsorship: ~ 12 months
Step 5: Approval and Arrival in Canada
Once approved, the sponsored family member will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, if applicable, a Permanent Resident Visa.
Upon arrival in Canada, they must:
- Present the COPR and passport to border officials.
- Answer final questions from the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA).
- Receive permanent resident status.
Benefits of Sponsoring Your Family to Canada
- Fast-track permanent residence for loved ones.
- No job offer required for the sponsored person.
- Access to Canada’s universal healthcare and education system.
- A stronger support system and better quality of life for the family.
Common Reasons for Sponsorship Application Refusal
Applications may be refused for the following reasons:
- Incomplete Application: Missing forms or documents.
- Relationship Not Genuine: If IRCC suspects a marriage of convenience.
- Insufficient Financial Support: Sponsors must prove financial capability.
- Criminal Record or Medical Inadmissibility: If the sponsored person has a serious criminal record or a health condition that could burden Canada’s healthcare system.
To avoid delays or refusals, all application details should be carefully verified, and strong supporting evidence should be provided.
Final Thoughts
Canada’s Family Sponsorship Program is one of the most effective ways to bring loved ones to Canada permanently. By ensuring all eligibility requirements are met, submitting a complete application, and avoiding common mistakes, the process can be completed smoothly.
Prospective sponsors should gather the necessary documents, pay the required fees, and submit their applications to begin the process. Seeking professional advice from an immigration consultant or lawyer can further enhance the chances of a successful application.