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Family Sponsorship
Family sponsorship is a crucial aspect of Canadian immigration policies, allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their family members for permanent residency. The Canadian government prioritizes family reunification, valuing the importance of keeping families together. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of family sponsorship in Canada, covering eligibility, requirements, application process, and key considerations.
- Understanding Family Sponsorship
Family sponsorship in Canada entails a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (the sponsor) supporting a family member (the sponsored person) to become a permanent resident. The objective is to reunite close family members, which includes spouses, common-law or conjugal partners, dependent children, parents, and grandparents.
- Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors
To be eligible to sponsor a family member, the sponsor must:
- Be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident of Canada, or a registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be residing in Canada, except for Canadian citizens sponsoring a spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, or dependent child who can live in Canada or plans to live in Canada when the sponsored person becomes a permanent resident.
- Eligibility Criteria for Sponsored Persons
The sponsored family member must be a:
- Spouse or common-law partner.
- Conjugal partner.
- Dependent child.
- Parent or grandparent.
- Application Process
a. Gather Necessary Documents:
- Collect all required documents for both the sponsor and the sponsored person. These may include identification, relationship proof, financial documents, and more.
b. Submit the Application:
- Complete the required application forms and submit them along with supporting documents to the appropriate immigration office.
c. Pay Fees:
- Pay the necessary fees for the sponsorship application, which can vary based on the type of sponsorship.
d. Processing of the Application:
- The immigration office will process the application, including background checks, verification of documents, and eligibility assessments.
e. Decision on the Application:
- If the application is approved, the sponsored person can proceed to become a permanent resident of Canada.
- Financial Responsibilities of Sponsors
Sponsors need to meet certain financial requirements to ensure they can support the sponsored family member(s). This includes signing an undertaking to financially support the sponsored person and their accompanying family members for a specified period.
- Duration of the Undertaking
Sponsors are legally obligated to fulfill the terms of the undertaking, which typically lasts for three to twenty years, depending on the sponsored family member’s relationship and age.
- Role and Responsibilities of Sponsors
Sponsors have several responsibilities, including providing financial support, ensuring the sponsored family member has basic necessities, and assisting them in becoming self-sufficient in Canada.
- Common Challenges and Tips for Success
a. Lengthy Processing Times:
- The processing of sponsorship applications can be lengthy. To mitigate this, ensure all required documents are submitted accurately and promptly.
b. Financial Obligations:
- Understand the financial commitments involved and plan accordingly to fulfill the undertaking.
c. Demonstrating Genuine Relationships:
- Provide substantial evidence to prove genuine relationships between sponsors and the sponsored family members.
d. Seek Professional Guidance:
- Consider seeking assistance from an immigration consultant or lawyer to navigate the complex process and increase the chances of a successful application.