Family Sponsorship Programs for Immigration to Canada

Family sponsorship programs are designed to reunite Canadian citizens and permanent residents with their loved ones from around the world. In contrast to economic programs such as Express Entry or Provincial Nominee Programs, family sponsorship is solely based on the foreigner's relationship to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. These programs enable eligible sponsors to bring spouses and children, parents and grandparents, and other close relatives to Canada, fostering family unity and community diversity. To qualify as a sponsor, you must commit to providing financial support for the individuals you are sponsoring for a specified duration, known as the "length of undertaking." Keep reading for an overview of these family sponsorship programs, highlighting their key features and requirements.


Spouses and Children

So-called Spousal Sponsorship refers to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who wish to sponsor their legally married spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner. Dependent children can also be included in the application. Sponsored persons in Canada may also be eligible to apply for an open work permit while they wait for a decision on their permanent residence application. Here are some essential details:

Requirements:

  • The sponsor must be at least 18 years old and a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
  • The relationship between the sponsor and the sponsored person must be genuine and not for immigration purposes.
  • If the sponsor currently lives outside of Canada, they must plan to live in Canada when the person(s) they want to sponsor become permanent residents.
  • The sponsor must be able to provide for the basic needs of the spouse and any dependent children over the age of 22 for 3 years, and of any sponsored children under the age of 22 for 10 years.

Documentation:

Married couples will need to produce a marriage certificate. To sponsor children, birth certificates and, if applicable, custody documents are required. For common-law partners, evidence to prove a genuine relationship is crucial. In addition to meeting general eligibility criteria, sponsors must provide documentation such as:

Proof of cohabitation: This can include leases, joint tenancy agreements or shared bills.

Proof of financial interdependence: Bank statements, joint accounts, or evidence of shared financial responsibilities.

Affidavits from friends and family attesting to the legitimacy of the relationship.

Photographs, travel records, or any other documents showing the couple's history together.


Parents and Grandparents

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can also sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residence in Canada through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). This program operates on an invitation-based system, and sponsors must submit an "Interest to Sponsor" form to express their desire to bring their parents or grandparents to Canada. Sponsors must meet specific income requirements to be eligible for the PGP. Key details include:

Requirements:

  • The sponsor must meet minimum income requirements to demonstrate their ability to financially support their parents or grandparents.
  • Invitations to apply for sponsorship are issued through periodic draws by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
  • Sponsors must provide a written commitment to support their parents or grandparents financially.
  • Undertakings for parents and grandparents remain in effect for 20 years after the sponsored parent or grandparent (and any accompanying dependants) becomes a permanent resident.

Documentation:

Interest to Sponsor Form: This form is typically available for a limited time each year and must be submitted online. It's crucial to monitor the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for updates on when the form will be available.

*NOTE: In 2021, 2022, 2023 and 2024, potential sponsors were invited from the remaining pool of interest to sponsor forms submitted in 2020. Alternatively, parents and grandparents may be eligible to apply for a super visa which could let them stay in Canada for 5 years at a time.*

Income Requirements: Sponsors must meet the minimum income requirement for the last three years to be eligible. This requirement aims to ensure that sponsors can financially support their parents or grandparents without relying on social assistance.

Proof of relationship: To prove the sponsor's relationship to their parent(s) and/or grandparent(s), birth certificates of the sponsor and, in case of sponsoring grandparents, the sponsor's parents must be provided.


Other Relatives

While Canada primarily prioritizes family reunification, it also offers limited options for sponsoring other relatives under the Family Class, such as dependent children, orphaned siblings, nieces, or nephews. This program has unique requirements and the "lonely Canadian" rule may apply, which means that the sponsor must prove that they have no other close family members in Canada who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

Requirements:

  • The sponsor must meet specific eligibility criteria, which can vary depending on the type of relative being sponsored.
  • Financial and other support obligations must be met, and the length of undertaking is 10 years.

Supporting Documentation: 

The sponsor should provide evidence, such as family trees, immigration documents, or affidavits, to demonstrate that they are the only close relative in Canada. 


Application Process

The application process for family sponsorship programs typically involves the following steps:

  1. Eligibility Assessment: The sponsor and sponsored person(s) must meet the program's eligibility requirements.
  2. Submitting the Application: Complete and submit the sponsorship application to the appropriate immigration authorities, along with required forms, documents, and the Interest to Sponsor form if applicable. Depending on the application type, fees are $1,080 or $1,085 for sponsored adults, and $150 or $155 for sponsored children.
  3. Processing Time: The processing time can vary, but it generally involves background checks, medical examinations, and security clearances.
  4. Decision: Once the application is reviewed, a decision is made regarding the sponsorship's approval or rejection.
  5. Permanent Residence: If approved, the sponsored person(s) will become permanent residents of Canada, with access to healthcare, education, and social services.


Canada's family sponsorship programs play a vital role in uniting loved ones and adding to its multicultural fabric. Whether you wish to bring your spouse, parents, or other close relatives to Canada, understanding the specific requirements and processes is essential. Keep in mind that immigration policies can change over time, so it's crucial to consult the official website of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for the most up-to-date information, or contact us for legal advice and guidance on family sponsorship programs. Reuniting with loved ones in the welcoming embrace of Canada is a dream that can become a reality for many.

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