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Understanding Canada’s Family Sponsorship Requirements

  • Writer: Jonathan Shachar
    Jonathan Shachar
  • Jan 8
  • 3 min read

Moving to Canada isn’t just about you—it’s about the family, too! Whether you’re bringing loved ones along or reuniting after your move, Canada’s family sponsorship program is your golden ticket. Let’s dive into everything you need to know, step by step (with a sprinkle of fun along the way).


1. What Is Family Sponsorship?

Family sponsorship allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor eligible family members to become permanent residents of Canada. Think of it as rolling out the red carpet for your loved ones!

Here’s who you can sponsor:


  • Spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner

  • Dependent children (under 22 years old, unmarried)

  • Parents and grandparents (via the Parents and Grandparents Program or PGP)

  • Other relatives in very specific cases (e.g., orphaned siblings under 18)


Pro Tip: You can’t sponsor your second cousin twice removed. Keep it close and cozy.


2. Are You Eligible to Be a Sponsor?

Before you send out the invites, ensure you’re eligible. Here’s the checklist:

  • You’re at least 18 years old.

  • You’re a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered under the Indian Act.

  • You’re not receiving social assistance (except for disability).

  • You can financially support your sponsored family member.


Pro Tip: If you’re a permanent resident, you must be living in Canada to sponsor someone.


3. Financial Requirements

Sponsorship isn’t just about love—it’s about financial stability. You’ll need to prove you can support your family member’s basic needs, including:


  • Food

  • Shelter

  • Clothing

  • Health needs not covered by public health services


For parents and grandparents, the bar is a bit higher. You’ll need to meet Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) requirements for the past three years and provide proof of income via CRA Notices of Assessment.


Pro Tip: No financial requirements for sponsoring a spouse, partner, or dependent child—love is priceless, right?


4. Prepare Your Application

Now comes the paperwork. Depending on whom you’re sponsoring, you’ll need specific forms and documents. Let’s break it down:

For a Spouse/Partner:


  • Completed application package

  • Proof of relationship (photos, messages, travel history, etc.)

  • Medical exams

  • Police certificates


For Dependent Children:

  • Proof of parent-child relationship (birth certificates, adoption papers)

  • School records (if applicable)


For Parents/Grandparents:

  • Proof of income (MNI)

  • Undertaking agreement (to provide financial support for 20 years!)


Pro Tip: Keep everything organized—think of it as Marie Kondo-ing your immigration journey.


5. Submit Your Application

Applications are submitted online or by mail, depending on the sponsorship type. Once you submit, you’ll receive an Acknowledgment of Receipt (AOR). This means your application is in the system—yay!


  • Pay the processing fees: CAD $1,080 for a spouse/partner (additional fees for dependents).

  • Biometrics: Your sponsored family member may need to provide fingerprints and photos.


Pro Tip: Make a copy of everything before submission—better safe than sorry.


6. Wait for Processing

Here comes the hard part: waiting. Processing times vary by sponsorship type:


  • Spouse/Partner: ~12 months

  • Parents/Grandparents: ~24 months (if invited to apply)


Pro Tip: Use this time to prepare your family member for their big move—help them practice saying “Eh?” like a true Canadian.


7. After Approval

Once approved, your family member will receive their Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR). They’ll need to present this at the border or a designated office to officially become a permanent resident. Cue the happy tears!


FAQs

Q: Can I sponsor someone if I’ve been sponsored myself? A: Yes, but only after you’ve been a permanent resident for at least five years.

Q: What if my sponsorship application is denied? A: You can appeal the decision, but it’s best to consult an immigration lawyer for guidance.

Q: Can I sponsor more than one person at a time? A: Yes, as long as you meet the eligibility and financial requirements for each application.


Final Thoughts

Sponsoring your family to join you in Canada is a meaningful journey that requires patience, paperwork, and a whole lot of heart. With this guide, you’re one step closer to reuniting with your loved ones in the land of maple syrup and snowy winters. Now go make those family dreams come true, eh?


 
 
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