As many newcomers to Canada originate from countries with warmer climates than Canada, this article…
Family Sponsorship
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Family Sponsorship Program
The Family Sponsorship Program in Canada allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor certain family members for permanent residence (PR). This program is part of Canada’s commitment to family reunification.
Who Can Be Sponsored?
You can sponsor the following family members:
1. Spouse, Common-Law Partner, or Conjugal Partner
- Spouse: Legally married partner (opposite or same sex).
- Common-law partner: Lived together for at least one year in a marriage-like relationship.
- Conjugal partner: In a relationship for at least one year but unable to live together due to immigration barriers (e.g., legal restrictions in their home country).
2. Dependent Children
- Under 22 years old and unmarried.
- If 22 or older, they must be financially dependent due to a physical or mental condition.
3. Parents and Grandparents (PGP Program)
- Canadian citizens and PRs can sponsor their parents or grandparents for PR.
- This program has a lottery-based selection process due to high demand.
- Alternatively, you can apply for a Super Visa, which allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit.
4. Orphaned Relatives
- You can sponsor a brother, sister, nephew, niece, or grandchild if they are:
- Orphaned (both parents are deceased).
- Under 18 years old.
- Unmarried and not in a common-law relationship.
4. Other Relatives (in rare cases)
- If you have no other living relatives (spouse, children, parents, siblings, aunts, uncles, etc.), you may be able to sponsor one relative of any age.
Sponsorship Eligibility Requirements
You can sponsor the following family members:
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be able to financially support the sponsored person for a certain period.
- Not be receiving social assistance (except for disability benefits).
- Not have committed certain criminal offenses.
Financial Requirements
- Spouse & Children: No minimum income requirement.
- Parents & Grandparents: You must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the past 3 years.
Processing Times
- Spouse/Partner Sponsorship: ~12 months.
- Parents & Grandparents: ~2-3 years.
- Dependent Children: ~6-12 months.
Application Process
- 1. Confirm your eligibility.
- 2. Submit a sponsorship application (online or paper-based).
- 3. Pay the required fees (~$1,080 CAD for spouse/partner).
- 4. Medical exams and biometrics for the sponsored person.
- 5. Wait for approval and, if needed, additional documents.
- 6. Receive PR approval and reunite with your family!
Canada
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