Family sponsorship remains a key part of Canada’s immigration system. It allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring close family members to live in Canada. In 2025, Canada plans to welcome tens of thousands of newcomers through family sponsorship. Here’s a clear guide on who can sponsor, who can be sponsored, and how the process works.
Who Can Sponsor a Family Member?
To sponsor someone, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered under the Indian Act.
- Live in Canada or plan to return if sponsoring a spouse, partner, or dependent child.
- Agree to financially support the sponsored person so they don’t need social assistance.
Sponsors must sign a legal agreement to provide financial support for a set time. This ensures sponsored family members can settle without relying on public funds.
Who Can Be Sponsored?
You can sponsor close family members such as:
- Spouses, common-law partners, or conjugal partners.
- Dependent children (including adopted children).
- Parents and grandparents.
- Other relatives in special cases, like orphaned siblings or nieces under 18.
Each category has specific rules and requirements. The process and timelines vary depending on the relationship.
Definitions of Relationships
It’s important to understand how Canadian immigration defines relationships:
- Spouse: Legally married partner.
- Common-law partner: Living together in a marriage-like relationship for at least one year.
- Conjugal partner: A partner in a marriage-like relationship for at least one year, but unable to live together due to special circumstances (like immigration barriers).
- Dependent child: A child under 22 who is not married or in a common-law relationship, or an older child who depends on the sponsor due to a physical or mental condition.
Spousal Open Work Permit Rules
If you sponsor a spouse or partner who is already in Canada, they may be eligible for an open work permit while their application is processed. This allows them to work without a job offer.
This rule helps families stay together and reduces financial stress during the sponsorship process.
Sponsorship Obligations
Sponsors must support their family members financially for a set period:
- 3 years for spouses or partners.
- 10 years or until the sponsored person turns 25, whichever is longer, for dependent children.
- 20 years for parents and grandparents.
If the sponsored person receives social assistance, the sponsor must repay the government.
Sponsorship from Outside Canada
Canadian citizens living abroad can sponsor family members if they plan to return to Canada when the sponsored person arrives.
Permanent residents must live in Canada to sponsor.
Quebec Sponsorship Process
Quebec has its own immigration rules for family sponsorship. Sponsors and applicants must follow Quebec’s specific procedures.
Quebec requires a separate application for a Quebec Selection Certificate before applying to the federal government.
Steps to Apply for Family Sponsorship
- Check eligibility: Confirm you meet sponsorship and applicant requirements.
- Gather documents: Prepare forms, proof of relationship, and supporting papers.
- Submit sponsorship application: Include all forms and fees.
- Wait for sponsorship approval: IRCC reviews the sponsor’s eligibility.
- Apply for permanent residence: The sponsored person submits their application with medical and security checks.
- Wait for decision: Processing times vary by category and country.
- Arrival in Canada: Once approved, the sponsored family member can move to Canada.
Why Family Sponsorship Matters
Family reunification is a top priority for Canada’s immigration policy. It helps newcomers settle better with family support. Families provide emotional and financial stability that helps immigrants succeed.
This program also reflects Canadian values of keeping families together.
Final Words
Family sponsorship offers a clear path for Canadians to reunite with loved ones. The rules can be complex, but knowing the basics helps you prepare your application with confidence.
If you plan to sponsor a family member in 2025, start by checking your eligibility and gathering documents early. Following the process step-by-step improves your chance of success.
For detailed advice, consider consulting an immigration expert who knows the latest rules and procedures.