Everything you need to know about sponsoring your child for immigration to Canada

Sponsoring your child for immigration to Canada is a significant decision that requires careful consideration and adherence to specific guidelines. Here’s everything you need to know about the process:

1. Eligibility: To sponsor your child, you must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada, or a registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act. You must also be at least 18 years old and financially able to support your child and any other dependents.

2. Who Can Be Sponsored: You can sponsor your biological or adopted child, as well as a child under legal guardianship. The child must be under 22 years old and unmarried.

3. Application Process: The process involves two main steps: sponsorship and permanent residence application.

   a. Sponsorship: As a sponsor, you need to submit an application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to sponsor your child. This application includes various forms and supporting documents, such as proof of relationship, identity documents, and financial information.

   b. Permanent Residence Application: After the sponsorship application is approved, your child will be required to apply for permanent residence. This application also includes forms and supporting documents, such as medical exams and police certificates.

4. Financial Responsibility: As a sponsor, you are legally obligated to financially support your child for a specific period. This undertaking period usually lasts for 3-20 years, depending on the child’s age and the nature of their relationship with you.

5. Inadmissibility: If either you or your child is found inadmissible due to criminal history, health issues, or misrepresentation, the sponsorship application may be refused.

6. Processing Time: Processing times for child sponsorship applications vary depending on various factors, including the country of origin and the complexity of the case. Generally, it can take several months to process the application.

7. Conditional Permanent Residence: If your child is married and is being sponsored under the Family Class, they may be subject to conditional permanent residence for two years. This means they must live with you in a genuine relationship for the conditional period to maintain their permanent resident status.

8. Support Documents: Make sure to gather all necessary documents and evidence to support your application. This includes birth certificates, adoption papers, passports, proof of relationship, and financial documents.

9. Fees: There are processing fees associated with sponsoring your child, including the sponsorship fee and the permanent residence application fee.

10. Seek Professional Advice: The immigration process can be complex, and it’s essential to seek professional advice from a reputable immigration consultant or lawyer to ensure you are following all the correct procedures and submitting a complete and accurate application.

Remember, immigration laws and policies can change, so always check the official IRCC website for the most up-to-date information before starting the sponsorship process for your child.