Everything You Need to Know About Sponsoring Your Children
As a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you can sponsor your dependent children – whether biological, step, or adoptive
One of the most meaningful ways to bring your family together is by sponsoring your dependent children to come to Canada. Whether your children are biological, stepchildren, or adopted, Canadian citizens and permanent residents have the right to apply for their immigration. Family reunification is a key priority in Canadian immigration policy, and this process allows families to start a new chapter together in Canada.
How do I know if I qualify to sponsor my children?
To sponsor your children, you need to meet certain eligibility criteria. First and foremost, you must be at least 18 years old. Additionally, you must be a Canadian citizen or have permanent resident status in Canada. These requirements ensure that sponsors have the legal capacity and established status necessary to support the immigration application of their children.
Being a sponsor also means taking responsibility for your child financially, including supporting them once they arrive, so it is important to understand what that commitment entails before applying.
Who is a dependent child?
Understanding who qualifies as a dependent child is crucial for a successful application. A dependent child is defined as someone who:
Is under 22 years old; or
Is over 22 years old but, because of a physical or mental condition, is unable to financially support themselves and remains dependent on their parent.
This definition ensures that children who are young or have special needs are eligible for sponsorship, recognizing that they may require ongoing parental support.
What if my child is almost 22 when I submit the application?
If your child is close to turning 22, it’s important to know that their age is “locked in” on the date Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) receives your application. This means that even if your child turns 22 during the application process, they will still be considered under the age of 22 for the entire duration of processing. This provision helps prevent families from being unfairly disqualified simply because of processing times.
Can I sponsor my adopted child?
Yes, you can sponsor your adopted child, whether they are under or over 18 years old. For adopted children under 18, the process includes providing proof that the adoption is in the best interests of the child. Additionally, the informed consent of the biological parents is required as part of the application.
If your adopted child is over 18, they must meet the definition of a dependent child, meaning they are financially dependent due to a mental or physical condition. Sponsoring an adopted child involves careful documentation to ensure all legal and immigration requirements are met.
Can I sponsor orphaned relatives?
Yes, it is possible to sponsor certain orphaned relatives such as siblings, nieces, nephews, and grandchildren. To qualify, these relatives must be:
Orphaned with no parents alive to care for them
Under 18 years of age
Not a spouse or common-law partner
This option provides a pathway for extended family members in need to reunite with their relatives in Canada, offering them stability and safety.
How can Taylor Mergui Law Group help me with my application?
At Taylor Mergui Law Group, we understand how important it is for families to reunite and begin new lives together. We have successfully guided many clients through the sponsorship process, helping them overcome challenges and avoid common pitfalls.
Immigration applications can be complex, and even small mistakes or missing information can cause delays or refusals. Our experienced team works closely with you to prepare a complete, accurate, and timely application that meets all requirements.
If you are considering sponsoring your children or other eligible family members, don’t leave your future to chance. Book a consultation with us today to learn how we can support you in reuniting your family in Canada.