Family Class Sponsorship: Reunite with Your Loved Ones in Canada

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What is Family Class Sponsorship in Canada?

The purpose of the Family Class Sponsorship program is to assist citizens and permanent residents of Canada in bringing their loved ones to the country. It enables sponsors to apply for permanent residency for their parents, grandparents, dependent children, spouse, common-law partner, and other designated family members. In addition to supporting the mental health of people looking to join their loved ones in Canada, the initiative seeks to promote family togetherness.

Eligibility Criteria for You to Sponsor a Family Member in Canada?​

Eligibility Criteria for You to Sponsor a Family Member in Canada?

You need to fulfill these conditions to be eligible as a sponsor:

  • Status: Be a citizen or permanent resident of Canada.
  • Age: 18 years of age or older.
  • Financial Support: Show that you have the resources to provide for the sponsored relative.
  • Legal Standing: Not being convicted of specific crimes, declared bankrupt, or subject to a deportation order or jail sentence.
 
 

Eligible Family Members for Sponsorship in Canada

You can sponsor the following relatives:

  • Spouse or Common-Law Partner: A legally married partner or a common-law partner with whom you have lived continuously for at least 12 months.
  • Dependent Children: Children under 22 years of age or older children with disabilities.
  • Parents and Grandparents: Must meet specific income requirements.
  • Orphaned Siblings, Nieces, Nephews, or Grandchildren: Under 18 years old, single, and related to you by blood or adoption, with both parents deceased.
  • Other Relatives: In special circumstances, such as if you are a “lonely Canadian” with no immediate family.

The Income Requirements for Family Class Sponsorship in Canada

Sponsors must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) thresholds, which vary based on family size. If sponsoring parents or grandparents, you must prove your income for the last three years, and a spouse can co-sign to meet the financial requirements.

Eligible Family Members for Sponsorship in Canada​

Federal Minimum Necessary Income for Sponsorship

For those living outside Quebec, the MNI is updated annually and applies to all sponsorship programs. Sponsors, along with any co-signers, must demonstrate their financial capacity for each individual they are responsible for. This includes proving income for the three tax years preceding the invitation to apply, not the date of the interest to sponsor submission.

  • 2 persons: $44,530
  • 3 persons: $54,743
  • 4 persons: $66,466
  • 5 persons: $75,384
  • 6 persons: $85,020
  • 7 persons: $94,658
  • For each additional person: +$9,636

Quebec Minimum Necessary Income for Sponsorship

In Quebec, the MNI differs slightly from the federal standard. Sponsors must calculate the income required to meet the basic needs of their families and those they wish to sponsor. The basic annual income required varies depending on family size, as shown below:

  • 1 family member: $28,242
  • 2 family members: $38,124
  • 3 family members: $47,068
  • 4 family members: $54,135
  • 5 family members: $60,250
  • For each additional dependent: +$6,115

How to Calculate Family Unit Size

To determine the MNI, sponsors must calculate the size of their family unit, which includes:

  • Themselves
  • Their spouse or common-law partner
  • Dependent children
  • The family members they intend to sponsor
  • Any dependents of the individuals being sponsored
  • Individuals currently covered by valid sponsorship undertakings they’ve signed or co-signed.

Step-by-Step Guide to the Family Sponsorship Application Process

How to apply for Express Entry in Canada? Let’s first check the programs under Express Entry.

Receiving and Responding to an ITA

What to Expect After Family Class Sponsorship Application in Canada?

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will acknowledge receipt of your Family Class Sponsorship application when it has been submitted. Depending on the kind of sponsorship and the quality of your application, processing times for family sponsorship might differ significantly. In most cases, it can take 12 to 24 months. The IRCC site allows applicants to view the status of their applications online.

If denied, the notice will provide the decision’s justification and appeal alternatives. You can monitor the progress of your application online during the procedure via the IRCC portal.

Obstacles in the Family Class Sponsorship Process

Incomplete applications, inadequate connection documentation, and criminal or medical inadmissibility are frequent obstacles. Our staff is here to assist you in resolving these problems, guaranteeing a more seamless procedure and resolving any issues before submission.

Why Pick Our Professionals in Immigration?

Working with experienced immigration consultants can greatly enhance your chances of success. We provide:

  • Personalized Guidance: Support that is specifically designed for you during the application process.
  • Document Preparation: Assist in compiling and arranging required documentation.
  • Representation: Speaking on your behalf to immigration officials.
PNP-Based Express Entry Programs

Your Family Sponsorship Questions Answered

  • Who can be sponsored under the Family Class?

    Eligible relatives include spouses, common-law partners, dependent children, parents, grandparents, and orphaned siblings, nieces, nephews, or grandchildren.

  • What are the financial requirements?

    Sponsors must meet the MNI thresholds based on family size.

  • Can I sponsor my parents or grandparents?

    Yes, but specific income requirements must be met.

  • How long does the sponsorship process take?

    Processing times vary, generally taking 12 to 24 months.

  • What if my family member has a medical condition?

    Medical inadmissibility may affect the application; we can guide you through this.

  • Is it possible for me to sponsor many relatives simultaneously?

    Yes, however, each application needs to fulfill the financial and eligibility standards.

  • What occurs if I don't get accepted?

    After resolving the difficulties, you can appeal or reapply after receiving a letter outlining the reasons.

  • If the application is rejected, are there any payments reimbursed?

    Although certain costs could be refundable, sponsorship fees are often not.

  • During the procedure, is it possible for my sponsored family member to work or study in Canada?

    They could be qualified for an open work permit if they apply onshore.

  • How can I demonstrate that I am related to the family member I am sponsoring?

    Provide supporting documents like marriage or birth certificates, photos, and communication logs.

Reuniting Families Across Borders

We’ve successfully helped many clients navigate the family sponsorship process, reuniting them with their loved ones in Canada.