FAMILY SPONSORSHIP IN CANADA

Canada, dedicated to family reunification and maintaining close family connections, provides various immigration programs that enable Canadians to sponsor their relatives to join them in the country.

• Who Can You Sponsor to Come to Canada?
• How Long Does Sponsorship Take?
• FAQ

Spouse, Common-law Partner, or Conjugal Partner

You may sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner for Canadian permanent residence, regardless of whether they are in Canada on a temporary visa or living abroad. If they are in Canada, they may also qualify for an spousal open work permit during the processing of the sponsorship application. Common-law partnerships are recognized in Canada, so you can apply if you and your partner have cohabited for at least one year.

Parent or Grandparent Sponsorship

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their parents or grandparents through the parent and grandparent sponsorship program. Sponsors must demonstrate they meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for their family size and agree to provide financial support if required. If permanent support is not feasible, a Super Visa may be available, offering long-term, multiple-entry options for parents and grandparents.

Child or Other Dependant Sponsorship

You can include your children as dependents in your permanent residence application. If they are not included initially, they may join you later. Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor biological or adopted children under 22 years old for permanent residence, provided they are unmarried and without children. Children over 22 may be considered dependents if they have a condition preventing self-support.

Orphaned Sibling, Nephew, Niece, or Grandchild

In certain cases, Canadian citizens or permanent residents can sponsor an orphaned sibling, nephew, niece, or grandchild who is under 18, unmarried, and related by blood or adoption.

Other Relatives (Exceptional Circumstances)

In rare situations, Canadian citizens or permanent residents may sponsor one extended relative outside the standard Family Class criteria if they are a “Lonely Canadian,” meaning they have no spouse, common-law partner, child, parent, or grandparent in Canada.

FAQ