What Family Sponsorship Means
Family sponsorship allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to support a family member’s application to become a permanent resident. The sponsor agrees to take responsibility for the basic needs of the person they bring to Canada. This includes housing, food and financial support as needed, so the sponsored person will not need social assistance.
People often ask, 'How can I sponsor my family to come to Canada?' The answer depends on your relationship to the person and whether they fall under one of the family classes recognized by Canada.
Who You Can Sponsor
There are several categories of family members who may be eligible for sponsorship.
Spouses & Partners
You can sponsor a spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner. These relationships must be genuine and supported by clear proof such as joint documents, shared financial responsibilities or communication records.
Dependent Children
You may also sponsor dependent children who are under 22 and not married. In some cases, children over 22 may still qualify if they rely on their parents due to a physical or mental condition.
Parents & Grandparents
Canada offers a specific program that opens at certain times each year. When selected, sponsors can submit a full application for parents or grandparents to become permanent residents. An income requirement applies because sponsors must show they can support their relatives for a longer period.
Other Relatives
In limited circumstances, you may sponsor one extended family member if you do not have other family members in Canada and cannot sponsor a closer relative. This is less common but still possible under specific conditions.
Sponsor Eligibility
To apply as a sponsor, you must meet federal requirements. Sponsors must be at least 18 years old, live in Canada and be a citizen, permanent resident or a registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act. You must show that you can financially support the person you are sponsoring and that you are not receiving social assistance for reasons other than disability.
It is also important that sponsors meet their previous sponsorship obligations before applying again. If a sponsor has defaulted on past responsibilities, they may not be eligible until the issue is resolved.
Application Steps
People often start by asking how to apply for family sponsorship in Canada, and while each category has unique forms, the general process is similar.
Step One: Confirm Eligibility
Review federal rules for both the sponsor and the person being sponsored. Make sure you understand income requirements, relationship criteria and what documents you need.
Step Two: Prepare the Application
Gather identity documents, proof of relationship, financial information and any additional evidence that supports your case. Many applications are delayed because forms are incomplete, so take time to ensure accuracy.
Step Three: Pay Fees & Submit Your Package
Sponsorship applications include processing fees, a right of permanent residence fee and biometrics fees. These must be paid online before submitting your application.
Step Four: Wait for Processing
IRCC will review your file and may request more information or an interview. Processing times vary, but keeping your information updated and responding quickly helps avoid delays.
Step Five: Medical Exams & Biometrics
Family members applying for permanent residency usually need an immigration medical exam with a panel physician. At Immigration Physician Ottawa, we provide exams that meet Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
(IRCC) standards and help guide applicants through what to expect.
Helping Your Family Settle in Canada
Once sponsorship is approved, your family member will receive instructions on how to travel and what documents to bring. After arrival, newcomers can apply for health coverage, enroll children in school and start building their lives in Canada.
You can further support their settlement by helping them understand local services, community programs and employment resources. Living together in Canada gives families stability, connection and long-term opportunity.
Tips for a Strong Sponsorship Application
A complete application is one of the best ways to avoid processing delays. Keep these points in mind.
- Provide clear and organized proof of your relationship.
- Answer all questions honestly and fully.
- Share updates with IRCC promptly if personal details change.
- Make sure the sponsored person completes their medical exam on time.
Final Thoughts
Family sponsorship can feel overwhelming at first, especially when you are unsure of how to help your family join you in Canada. With proper preparation, clear documentation and an understanding of the rules, the process becomes manageable. Canada values keeping families together, and the sponsorship program reflects that commitment.
