Engaging in Dependent Child Sponsorship is a wonderful way to reunite your family and offer a child the opportunity to establish a new life in Canada. However, it’s crucial to thoroughly comprehend the requirements and procedures involved in this process.
Who can you sponsor?
You can sponsor your biological or adopted child, stepchild, or child under your legal guardianship. However, you cannot sponsor a child who is over 22 years old or who has become a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
How to sponsor a dependent child to Canada?
- Meet the eligibility requirements. You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old, and living in Canada. You must also be able to financially support the child and not be bankrupt, in prison, charged with a serious offense, or under a removal order. The child must be under the age of 22 and unmarried or in a common-law relationship. In some cases, individuals over the age of 22 may be eligible for Dependent Child Sponsorship if they possess a mental or physical condition that renders them incapable of self-support.
- Gather the required documents. You will need to submit a number of documents with your application, including proof of your citizenship or permanent residency, proof of your income, and proof of your relationship to the child. You can find a list of the required documents on the IRCC website.
- Pay the application fees. There are a number of application fees associated with the sponsorship process. You can find a list of the fees on the IRCC website.
- Submit your application. You can submit your application online or by mail.
- Wait for a decision. IRCC will process your application and make a decision. If your application is approved, the child will be able to immigrate to Canada.
- Apply for your child’s permanent residence. Once you have received your sponsorship approval letter, you can apply for your child’s permanent residence. The child will need to pass medical and criminal background checks and be in good health in order to be granted permanent residency.
- Get ready for departure. Once the child has permanent residency, you can get ready for their departure to Canada.
Read more: Immigration to Canada
Requirements for dependent child sponsorship in Canada
- Sponsor:
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Canada
- Be at least 18 years old
- Be able to financially support the child
- Not be bankrupt, in prison, charged with a serious offense, or under a removal order
- Child:
- Be under the age of 22 and unmarried or in a common-law relationship
- Be financially dependent on the sponsor
- Be admissible to Canada
To sponsor a dependent child, the sponsor must submit an application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The application process can be complex, so it is important to seek professional advice from a lawyer or immigration consultant.
The MNI requirements vary depending on the number of family members you support in Canada and the number of family members you wish to sponsor.
Benefits of dependent child sponsorship in Canada
Family reunification: Dependent Child Sponsorship enables you to bring your child to Canada and live together. This can be an exceptional opportunity to reinforce your family’s bond and offer your child a brighter future.
Education: Canada has a world-class education system, and sponsored children are eligible to attend public school and university for free. This can give your child a significant advantage in life.
Healthcare: Canada has a universal healthcare system, which means that sponsored children are eligible for free healthcare. This can give you peace of mind knowing that your child is covered in case of illness or injury.
Job opportunities: Canada has a strong economy and a low unemployment rate. Sponsored children have the same job opportunities as Canadian citizens and permanent residents. This can help them to build a successful career and achieve their financial goals.
Quality of life: Canada is a great place to live, with a high standard of living and a clean and safe environment. Sponsoring a dependent child in Canada can give them the opportunity to grow up in a healthy and happy environment.
Frequently asked questions
Here are some frequently asked questions about sponsoring a child in Canada:
- How long does the sponsorship process take? The sponsorship process can take several months, depending on the complexity of your case.
- How much does it cost to sponsor a child? The application fees associated with the sponsorship process vary depending on the number of family members you are sponsoring. You can find a list of the fees on the IRCC website.
- What happens if my child becomes a Canadian citizen or permanent resident while they are sponsored? If your child becomes a Canadian citizen or permanent resident while they are sponsored, you will no longer be responsible for providing financial support to them.
- What happens if I am unable to meet the MNI requirements? If you are unable to meet the MNI requirements, you may still be able to sponsor a child if you have a guarantor. A guarantor is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who agrees to financially support your sponsored child if you are unable to do so
