contact@apniimmigration.ca
Mississauga: +1 (647) 354 2579

Orphan Program

Family Reunification

Orphan Program

Canada is committed to family reunification and providing support to those in need. The Orphan Program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their orphaned relatives, ensuring they are brought to a safe and supportive environment in Canada.

Compassionate Support

Helping Vulnerable Children Find a New Home

The Orphan Program is designed to help vulnerable children who have lost both parents to join their relatives in Canada and start a new life. This program reflects Canada's commitment to family reunification and humanitarian values.

By sponsoring an orphaned relative, you can provide them with the opportunity to grow up in a safe, supportive environment with family members who care for them. This program helps vulnerable children who have experienced significant loss to rebuild their lives and reach their full potential in Canada.

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Orphan Children
Eligibility Criteria

Who is Eligible?

To qualify for the Orphan Program, the orphaned child must meet specific criteria set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Child Requirements

Eligibility Criteria for the Child

Age

The child must be under 18 years of age at the time of application submission. The age is locked in on the date IRCC receives a complete application.

Marital Status

The child must be single, with no spouse or common-law partner. Children who are married, divorced, or in a common-law relationship are not eligible for sponsorship under this program.

Parental Status

Both parents must have passed away. The child cannot have any living parents, and they must not be under the care of another guardian. Documentation proving the death of both parents will be required.

Sponsor Requirements

Eligibility Criteria 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 child becomes a permanent resident.

Relationship to Sponsor

The child must be directly related to the Canadian sponsor, such as a brother, sister, nephew, niece, or grandchild. The relationship must be proven through documentation such as birth certificates, family records, or DNA testing if necessary.

Financial Capability

You must demonstrate that you have sufficient income to support the orphaned child. You will need to sign an undertaking agreement promising to provide financial support for the child until they reach the age of majority or become financially independent.

Application Process

How to Apply for the Orphan Program

The application process for the Orphan Program 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 the orphaned child meet the eligibility requirements for sponsorship. This includes confirming the child's age, marital status, parental status, and relationship to you.

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 and evidence of the child's eligibility for sponsorship.

This may include birth certificates, death certificates of the child's parents, custody documents, and other supporting evidence specific to your situation. Ensure all documents are properly translated and certified if they are not in English or French.

Step 3: Complete Application Forms

Complete all required application forms accurately and thoroughly. For the Orphan Program, this typically includes the Family Class sponsorship forms and the permanent residence application forms.

Be sure to include a detailed letter of explanation outlining the circumstances of the child's orphaned status and your relationship to the child. This letter should explain why sponsorship is in the best interest of the child.

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. Be prepared for potential requests for additional information or documentation.

Step 5: Medical and Security Checks

Once your application is reviewed, the orphaned child 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. You will be notified when it's time for the child to complete these steps.

Step 6: Final Decision

After reviewing your application, medical results, and security checks, IRCC will make a final decision. If approved, the orphaned child 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. As the sponsor, you will be responsible for meeting the child at the port of entry and helping them settle in Canada.

Required Documents

Essential Documents for Your Application

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

Personal Documents
  • Valid passport for the child
  • Birth certificate of the child
  • Digital photos meeting specifications
  • Identity documents for the sponsor
Relationship Documents
  • Proof of relationship to the child
  • Family photos spanning multiple years
  • Birth certificates showing family connection
  • DNA test results (if applicable)
Application Forms
  • Sponsorship application (IMM 1344)
  • Sponsorship agreement (IMM 1344A)
  • Generic application form (IMM 0008)
  • Schedule A – Background/Declaration
Parental Status Documents
  • Death certificates of both parents
  • Official documentation of orphaned status
  • Legal guardianship documents (if applicable)
  • Statements from local authorities
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
Legal Documents
  • Police certificates
  • Court documents (if applicable)
  • Statutory declarations
  • Consent from local authorities (if required)
Special Considerations

Important Factors to Consider

Sponsoring an orphaned relative involves several special considerations that you should be aware of before beginning the application process.

Best Interests of the Child

Prioritizing the Child's Welfare

When sponsoring an orphaned child, the primary consideration is always the best interests of the child. Immigration officers will assess whether the sponsorship arrangement is genuinely in the child's best interests.

This assessment considers factors such as:

  • The child's physical, emotional, and psychological needs
  • The strength of the relationship between the child and the sponsor
  • The child's views and preferences (depending on their age and maturity)
  • The child's cultural, linguistic, and religious background
  • The sponsor's ability to provide a stable, loving environment

Your application should clearly demonstrate how sponsorship will benefit the child and how you plan to meet their needs in Canada.

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Additional Considerations

Legal Guardianship

You should understand the legal implications of becoming a guardian for the orphaned child. This may involve obtaining legal guardianship in Canada after the child arrives. Consult with a family lawyer to understand your legal responsibilities.

Cultural Transition

Consider how you will help the child adjust to life in Canada, particularly if they are coming from a different cultural background. This may include language support, cultural orientation, and connecting with community resources.

Educational Planning

Research educational options for the child in your community and develop a plan for their enrollment in school. Consider whether they will need additional educational support, such as ESL classes or tutoring.

Emotional Support

Orphaned children have experienced significant loss and trauma. Be prepared to provide emotional support and consider access to counseling or therapy to help the child process their experiences and adjust to their new life.

Common Challenges

Overcoming Orphan Program Challenges

Many applicants face challenges when applying for the Orphan Program. Understanding these common issues can help you prepare a stronger application and avoid potential pitfalls.

Common Application Challenges
Proving Orphaned Status
Difficulty obtaining death certificates or official documentation of parents' passing
Establishing Family Relationship
Challenges proving the relationship between the sponsor and the orphaned child
Local Authority Permissions
Obtaining necessary permissions from local authorities in the child's country
Best Interests Assessment
Demonstrating that sponsorship is genuinely in the best interests of the child
Processing Delays
Extended processing times due to complex verification processes
Our Solutions

How We Can Help You Overcome Challenges

Our team of immigration experts specializes in Orphan Program applications and has helped numerous 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:

  • Gather alternative evidence when standard documentation is unavailable
  • Establish family relationships through various forms of evidence
  • Navigate the process of obtaining permissions from local authorities
  • Prepare a compelling case demonstrating the best interests of the child
  • Coordinate DNA testing when necessary to prove relationships
  • Address any inadmissibility issues proactively
Get Expert Help
Our Services

Comprehensive Orphan Program Support

Our team of immigration experts provides comprehensive support throughout the Orphan Program application process, from initial assessment to final approval and beyond.

Eligibility Assessment

We conduct a thorough assessment of your eligibility for the Orphan Program, reviewing your relationship to the child 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 and evidence of the child's orphaned status.

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 the orphaned child.

Testimonials

What Our Clients Say About Our Orphan Program Services

Michael Chen
Vancouver, BC

After my sister and her husband passed away in a tragic accident, I was determined to bring my nephew to Canada. Apni Immigration guided me through the complex Orphan Program application process with compassion and expertise. Thanks to their help, my nephew is now thriving in Canada, and we're building a new life together as a family.

Amina Patel
Toronto, ON

Sponsoring my orphaned niece from overseas seemed impossible due to the lack of proper documentation in her country. Apni Immigration found creative solutions to establish her orphaned status and our family relationship. Their persistence and knowledge of immigration law made all the difference. My niece is now safe in Canada and excelling in school.

Robert Ndlovu
Calgary, AB

When I decided to sponsor my orphaned grandchildren after my son and daughter-in-law passed away, I was overwhelmed by the process. Apni Immigration not only helped with the immigration application but also connected me with resources to help the children adjust to life in Canada. Their holistic approach to family reunification made a difficult situation much easier to navigate.

Ready to Begin Your Orphan Sponsorship Journey?

Our expert immigration consultants will guide you through every step of the Orphan Program application process, from determining eligibility to document preparation and submission.

Schedule a consultation today and take the first step toward bringing your orphaned relative to Canada.

Request a Free Consultation

Contact Info

7895 Tranmere drive, Unit - 216 Mississauga Ontario L5S 1V9 Canada contact@apniimmigration.ca +1 (647) 354 2579

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Monday - Friday:

10.00 am to 05.00 pm

Saturday & Sunday

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Our Services

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