Canada's family sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor eligible family members for permanent residence. Reuniting families is a core value of Canadian immigration policy, and the family class program is designed to make this possible.
Who Can You Sponsor?
- Spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner
- Dependent children (including adopted children)
- Parents and grandparents
- Orphaned siblings, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren under 18
- Any relative if you have no other relatives who are citizens or PRs
Sponsor Eligibility Requirements
To sponsor a family member, you must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is at least 18 years old and lives in Canada. You must also meet a minimum necessary income threshold (for sponsoring parents and grandparents) and sign an undertaking — a legal promise to financially support your sponsored family members.
Processing Times
Processing times vary significantly by category. Spousal sponsorship applications are typically processed within 12 months. Parent and grandparent sponsorship is subject to an annual intake cap and can take several years. Our consultants stay up-to-date on current processing times and can advise you on the most realistic timeline for your specific case.
Common Issues to Avoid
Family sponsorship applications are often refused due to incomplete documentation, failure to prove the genuineness of a relationship, or not meeting income requirements. Working with an experienced immigration consultant significantly reduces the risk of these issues and can help ensure your application is approved the first time.
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