Family Sponsorship

Canada offers a range of family sponsorship pathways that allow Canadian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with their loved ones. These programs are designed to keep families together by providing a clear pathway to permanent residency.

What is Family Sponsorship?

Family sponsorship enables eligible sponsors to support certain family members in becoming permanent residents of Canada. The sponsor must demonstrate the ability to financially support the applicant and ensure they do not require social assistance.

Who Can Sponsor?

To sponsor a family member, you must:

Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Be at least 18 years old
Meet minimum income requirements (for certain categories)
Agree to financially support the applicant for a specified period

Spousal Sponsorship

For legally married spouses
Includes both inland (within Canada) and outland (outside Canada) applications
Applicants may be eligible for an open work permit while their application is processed

Common-Law Partner Sponsorship

For common-law partners
Includes both inland (within Canada) and outland (outside Canada) applications
Applicants may be eligible for an open work permit while their application is processed

Dependent Child Sponsorship

For biological or adopted children under the age of 22 (with some exceptions)
Children must be unmarried and financially dependent

Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents)

A temporary visa allowing parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for extended periods (up to 5 years per visit)
Does not grant permanent residency but provides a long-term visit option
Requires medical insurance and financial support from the sponsor

Other Eligible Relatives

An orphaned sibling, niece, nephew, or grandchild under 18
One other relative of any age if you have no other eligible family members in Canada or abroad

Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship (PGP)

Allows sponsors to bring their parents or grandparents to Canada as permanent residents
Subject to annual intake caps and a lottery-style selection process
Requires sponsors to meet higher income thresholds and commit to long-term financial support

How the Process Works

Eligibility Assessment
Confirm both the sponsor and applicant meet all requirements
Application Submission
Submit sponsorship and permanent residency applications together
Processing and Background Checks
Applications are assessed, including medical, criminal, and relationship verification
Decision and Visa Grant
If approved, the applicant receives permanent residency (or a visa, where applicable)

Processing Times

Processing times vary depending on the category and whether the application is made inside or outside Canada. Spousal applications are typically prioritised, while parent and grandparent programs may take longer due to high demand.

How We Can Help

Our experienced migration consultants can:

Assess your eligibility as a sponsor or applicant
Recommend the most suitable sponsorship pathway
Prepare and lodge a complete, decision-ready application
Assist with supporting documents and relationship evidence
Manage your case through to final decision

Reunite with your family in Canada. Contact us today for expert advice and tailored support.