Family Reunification

Child or Other Dependent Sponsorship

The Child or Other Dependent Sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their children or other eligible dependents to become permanent residents of Canada. This program is designed to help families stay together and provide a better future for children and dependents.

Family Unity

Reunite With Your Children and Dependents in Canada

The Child or Other Dependent Sponsorship program is designed to help families stay together by allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their children and other eligible dependents for permanent residence in Canada.

Canada recognizes the importance of family unity and the well-being of children and dependents. This program reflects Canada's commitment to family reunification and maintaining Canada's reputation as a welcoming nation that values family connections.

Consult with Our Experts

Eligibility Criteria

Who Can Be Sponsored as a Child or Dependent?

To sponsor a child or other dependent under this program, both the sponsor and the person being sponsored must meet certain requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Sponsor Requirements

Requirements for Sponsors

Citizenship Status

You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada. If you are a Canadian citizen living outside Canada, you must demonstrate that you plan to live in Canada when the sponsored person becomes a permanent resident.

Age Requirement

You must be at least 18 years of age to be eligible to sponsor a child or dependent for Canadian permanent residence.

Financial Capability

You must demonstrate that you have sufficient income to support your family, including the child or dependent you are sponsoring. You will need to sign an undertaking agreement promising to provide financial support for your child or dependent.

Eligible Dependents

Who Qualifies as a Child or Dependent?

Biological or Adopted Children Under 22

You can sponsor your biological or legally adopted children who are under 22 years of age and are not married or in a common-law relationship. The age of the child is locked in on the date IRCC receives a complete application.

Children 22 or Older Who Depend on Financial Support

You can sponsor your children who are 22 years of age or older if they are unable to financially support themselves due to a physical or mental condition and have depended on their parents for financial support since before the age of 22.

Other Eligible Dependents

In some cases, you may be able to sponsor other dependents, such as siblings, nieces, or nephews, if you are their legal guardian and they meet the age and relationship requirements. This typically applies in situations where the dependent has lost their parents or legal guardians.

Understanding Dependency

Definition of Dependent Children

The definition of a dependent child is specific and has evolved over time. Understanding who qualifies as a dependent child is crucial for a successful sponsorship application.

Current Definition

Who Is Considered a Dependent Child?

As of October 24, 2017, a dependent child is defined as:

A child who is under 22 years of age and is not a spouse or common-law partner
A child who is 22 years of age or older and is financially dependent on their parents due to a physical or mental condition

The age of the child is locked in on the date IRCC receives a complete application. This means that if your child turns 22 after you submit a complete application, they will still be considered a dependent child for the purposes of that application.

It's important to note that this definition applies to all immigration programs, including family sponsorship, economic immigration, and refugee programs.

Assess Your Child's Eligibility

Historical Changes to the Definition

Pre-August 1, 2014

Before August 1, 2014, a dependent child was defined as a child under 22 years of age, or a child 22 years of age or older who had been continuously enrolled in full-time studies and was financially dependent on their parents, or a child 22 years of age or older who was financially dependent on their parents due to a physical or mental condition.

August 1, 2014 to October 23, 2017

From August 1, 2014 to October 23, 2017, a dependent child was defined as a child under 19 years of age, or a child 19 years of age or older who was financially dependent on their parents due to a physical or mental condition. The provision for full-time students was removed during this period.

October 24, 2017 to Present

The current definition, effective since October 24, 2017, increased the age limit back to under 22 years of age, while maintaining the provision for children 22 years of age or older who are financially dependent due to a physical or mental condition.

Special Circumstances

Special Cases in Child and Dependent Sponsorship

There are several special circumstances that may affect your child or dependent sponsorship application. Understanding these situations can help you prepare a stronger application.

Adopted Children

If you are sponsoring an adopted child, you must provide evidence of a legal adoption that meets both Canadian and the child's home country requirements. The adoption must be in the best interests of the child and must create a genuine parent-child relationship.

For international adoptions, you may need to complete the adoption process before the child can immigrate to Canada, or you may be able to sponsor the child for permanent residence first and then complete the adoption in Canada, depending on the circumstances.

Children with Disabilities

If you are sponsoring a child who is 22 years of age or older and has a physical or mental condition that makes them financially dependent on their parents, you will need to provide medical evidence of the condition and its impact on the child's ability to support themselves.

This evidence typically includes medical reports, assessments by healthcare professionals, and documentation of the child's financial dependence on you since before they turned 22 years of age.

Orphaned Relatives

In some cases, you may be able to sponsor orphaned siblings, nieces, nephews, or grandchildren who are under 18 years of age, unmarried, and whose parents are deceased or missing.

To sponsor an orphaned relative, you must be their legal guardian and must provide evidence of the death or disappearance of the child's parents, as well as documentation of your guardianship and relationship to the child.

Children Born Outside of Marriage

If you are sponsoring a child who was born outside of marriage, you will need to provide evidence of your biological relationship to the child, such as a birth certificate naming you as a parent, DNA test results, or other documentation establishing the parent-child relationship.

The requirements may vary depending on the laws of the child's country of birth and whether you are the mother or father of the child.

Children in Custody Arrangements

If you are sponsoring a child who is subject to a custody arrangement, you will need to provide evidence of your legal right to determine where the child lives. This typically includes custody orders, consent from the other parent, or evidence that you have sole custody of the child.

If the other parent has custody or access rights, they may need to provide written consent for the child to immigrate to Canada.

Children Approaching Age 22

If your child is approaching 22 years of age, it's important to submit a complete application before they turn 22 to ensure they are considered a dependent child for immigration purposes.

Remember that the age of the child is locked in on the date IRCC receives a complete application. If your application is incomplete or is returned to you for any reason, your child may age out of eligibility if they turn 22 before you resubmit a complete application.

Application Process

How to Apply for Child or Dependent Sponsorship

The application process for Child or Dependent Sponsorship involves several steps and requires careful preparation. Understanding this process is crucial for a successful application.

Step 1: Determine Eligibility

Before beginning the application process, carefully assess whether you and your child or dependent meet the eligibility requirements for sponsorship. This includes confirming the age and relationship status of the child or dependent.

It's advisable to consult with an immigration professional at this stage to evaluate your situation and identify any potential challenges or issues that may arise during the application process.

Step 2: Gather Documentation

Collect all necessary documentation to support your application, including proof of your relationship to the child or dependent and evidence of their eligibility for sponsorship.

This may include birth certificates, adoption papers, custody documents, medical reports for children with disabilities, and other supporting evidence specific to your situation.

Step 3: Complete Application Forms

Complete all required application forms accurately and thoroughly. For Child or Dependent Sponsorship, this typically includes the Family Class sponsorship forms and the permanent residence application forms.

Be sure to include a detailed letter of explanation if there are any unusual circumstances or special considerations in your case.

Step 4: Submit Application

Submit your complete application package, including all forms, supporting documents, and the required fees, to the appropriate IRCC office. Make sure to keep copies of everything you submit.

After submission, you will receive an acknowledgment of receipt and a file number that you can use to track the progress of your application.

Step 5: Medical and Security Checks

Once your application is reviewed, your child or dependent will be required to undergo a medical examination by a designated panel physician. They will also be subject to security and background checks.

These checks are mandatory for all permanent residence applications and are designed to ensure that applicants meet Canada's health and security requirements.

Step 6: Final Decision

After reviewing your application, medical results, and security checks, IRCC will make a final decision. If approved, your child or dependent will receive their Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and permanent resident visa (if applicable).

They must enter Canada before the expiry date on their COPR and visa to validate their permanent resident status.

Required Documents

Essential Documents for Your Application

A complete and well-organized application package is crucial for a successful Child or Dependent Sponsorship application. Make sure to include all the following documents to avoid delays or refusals.

Personal Documents

Valid passports for all parties
Birth certificates
Digital photos meeting specifications
Marriage certificates (if applicable)

Relationship Documents

Proof of relationship to the child/dependent
Family photos spanning multiple years
School records showing parental relationship
Adoption papers (if applicable)

Application Forms

Sponsorship application (IMM 1344)
Sponsorship agreement (IMM 1344A)
Generic application form (IMM 0008)
Schedule A – Background/Declaration

Financial Documents

Notice of Assessment (NOA) for past year
T4 slips for past year
Employment letter confirming job and salary
Pay stubs for the past 3-6 months

Medical Documents

Medical examination results
Upfront medical form (IMM 1017)
Medical history documentation
Proof of disability (if applicable)

Legal Documents

Police certificates
Custody documents (if applicable)
Guardianship papers (if applicable)
Death certificates (if parents deceased)

Common Challenges

Overcoming Child and Dependent Sponsorship Challenges

Many applicants face challenges when applying for Child or Dependent Sponsorship. Understanding these common issues can help you prepare a stronger application and avoid potential pitfalls.

Common Application Challenges

Age Eligibility Issues

Children turning 22 during the application process may lose their dependent status

Proving Dependency for Older Children

Difficulty providing sufficient medical evidence for children over 22 with disabilities

Custody and Consent Issues

Challenges obtaining consent from the other parent or proving sole custody

Adoption Documentation

Ensuring adoptions meet both Canadian and foreign country requirements

DNA Testing Requirements

When and how to provide DNA evidence of biological relationships

Our Solutions

How We Can Help You Overcome Challenges

Our team of immigration experts specializes in Child and Dependent Sponsorship applications and has helped hundreds of families successfully navigate the application process. We understand the common pitfalls and know how to avoid them.

We provide comprehensive support throughout the entire sponsorship process, from initial eligibility assessment to document preparation and submission. Our expertise can help you:

Submit applications before children age out of eligibility
Gather compelling medical evidence for children with disabilities
Navigate complex custody and consent requirements
Ensure adoption documentation meets all legal requirements
Coordinate DNA testing when necessary to prove relationships
Address any inadmissibility issues proactively

Get Expert Help

Our Services

Comprehensive Child and Dependent Sponsorship Support

Our team of immigration experts provides comprehensive support throughout the Child and Dependent Sponsorship process, from initial assessment to final approval and beyond.

Eligibility Assessment

We conduct a thorough assessment of your eligibility for Child or Dependent Sponsorship, reviewing your relationship to the child or dependent and any potential inadmissibility issues to determine the best path forward.

Document Preparation

We help you identify, collect, and organize all necessary documentation to support your application, including proof of your relationship to the child or dependent and evidence of their eligibility for sponsorship.

Application Preparation

Our experts will help you prepare a complete and accurate application package, including all required forms and supporting documents. We ensure that your application presents your case in the strongest possible light.

IRCC Communication

We manage all communication with IRCC on your behalf, responding to requests for additional information or clarification promptly and effectively to ensure your application continues to progress smoothly.

Appeal Support

If your application is refused, we can help you understand the reasons for the refusal and explore options for appeal or reapplication, including preparing a strong appeal case if appropriate.

Settlement Support

Our support doesn't end when permanent residence is granted. We provide guidance on settlement services, healthcare access, education, and other aspects of establishing a new life in Canada for your child or dependent.

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Our Child and Dependent Sponsorship Services

Sarah Johnson

Toronto, ON

After adopting my daughter internationally, I was overwhelmed by the immigration process. Apni Immigration guided me through every step, ensuring all our adoption documentation met Canadian requirements. Their expertise made a complex process manageable, and my daughter is now thriving as a permanent resident in Canada.

Carlos Mendez

Vancouver, BC

My son was about to turn 22 when we decided to apply for sponsorship. Apni Immigration worked quickly to prepare our application before he aged out of eligibility. Their attention to detail and knowledge of the program requirements were invaluable. Thanks to their efficiency, our application was submitted on time and eventually approved.

Priya Sharma

Calgary, AB

Sponsoring my adult daughter with a disability seemed impossible until I consulted with Apni Immigration. They helped me gather the right medical evidence and documentation to prove her dependency. Their compassionate approach and expertise in handling complex cases made all the difference. My daughter is now with me in Canada, receiving the care she needs.

Ready to Begin Your Family Reunification Journey?

Our expert immigration consultants will guide you through every step of the Child or Dependent Sponsorship process, from determining eligibility to document preparation and submission.

Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward bringing your child or dependent to Canada.

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