Sponsorship

Family reunification is a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration policy. The Family Sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their close relatives for permanent residency. EMIFA Immigration provides comprehensive services to help families navigate the sponsorship process, ensuring that loved ones can be reunited in Canada.

Who Can Be Sponsored?

The Family Sponsorship program allows you to sponsor:

• Spouse, Common-Law Partner, or Conjugal Partner:

  • Legally married spouse
  • Common-law partner (lived together for at least 12 consecutive months)
  • Conjugal partner (in a relationship for at least one year but unable to live together due to extenuating circumstances)

• Dependent Children:

  • Biological or adopted children under the age of 22 who are not married or in a common-law relationship
  • Children over 22 who are dependent due to a physical or mental condition

• Parents and Grandparents:

  • Biological or adoptive parents and grandparents

• Other Relatives (in specific circumstances):

  • Orphaned brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren who are under 18 and not married or in a common-law relationship
  • One other relative of any age or relationship, but only if the sponsor has no other family members in Canada and no other family members abroad who could be sponsored

Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors

To sponsor a family member, you must meet the following criteria:

1. Status in Canada:

   • Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

2. Age:

   • Be at least 18 years old

3. Financial Ability:

   • Demonstrate the ability to financially support the sponsored family member
   • Meet minimum income requirements (for parents and grandparents sponsorship)

4. No Defaulted Sponsorships:

   • Not be in default of previous sponsorship undertakings

5. No Bankruptcy:

   • Not be an undischarged bankrupt

6. No Criminal Record:

   • Not have a criminal record related to violent offenses

The Sponsorship Process

1. Check Eligibility:

   • Ensure both you and the family member you want to sponsor meet the eligibility criteria.

2. Gather Documentation:

   • Collect all necessary documents, such as proof of relationship, financial statements, and identity documents.

3. Submit the Sponsorship Application:

   • Complete and submit the sponsorship application form along with all required supporting documents.

4. Application Processing:

   • IRCC reviews the application to ensure all criteria are met.
   • This includes background checks and, if applicable, a medical exam for the sponsored person.

5. Decision and Follow-Up:

   • If the application is approved, the sponsored family member will receive permanent residency status.
   • If additional information or documentation is required, IRCC will contact you.

Processing Times and Fees

• Processing Times: Vary depending on the type of sponsorship and the country of the sponsored person. Typical processing times range from 12 to 24 months.
• Fees: Include a sponsorship fee, processing fee, and right of permanent residence fee. Additional fees may apply for medical exams and police certificates.

Benefits of Family Sponsorship

• Reuniting Families: Allows you to live with your loved ones in Canada.
• Support System: Provides a strong support system for new immigrants.
• Pathway to Citizenship: Sponsored family members can eventually apply for Canadian citizenship.

Conclusion

Family sponsorship is a vital part of Canada’s immigration system, offering a pathway to reunite with loved ones and build a new life together in Canada. At EMIFA Immigration, we are dedicated to assisting you throughout the sponsorship process, ensuring that your application is complete and meets all requirements. Contact us today to begin the journey of bringing your family closer together in Canada.