In Canada, dependent children of Canadian citizens or permanent residents can be sponsored to join their parents and live permanently in the country. This process is part of the family reunification program, ensuring that families can be together.
1. Who Can Be Sponsored as a Dependent Child?
A dependent child can be sponsored if they meet the following criteria:
✔ Under 22 years old and not married or in a common-law relationship.
✔ Over 22 years old but financially dependent on the parent due to a disability.
In both cases, the child must be genuinely dependent on the sponsor and unable to support themselves independently.
2. Who Can Sponsor a Dependent Child?
To sponsor a dependent child, the sponsor must:
✔ Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
✔ Be at least 18 years old.
✔ Be able to financially support the child (this is generally not an issue for parents).
✔ Agree to provide financial support for the child until they are self-sufficient or for a period of 3 to 10 years, depending on the child’s age.
3. Requirements for Sponsorship of Children
📄 Proof of Relationship:
-
Birth certificate to prove the biological relationship.
-
In cases of adoption, an adoption certificate is required.
-
Additional documents, such as parental consent, if applicable.
📄 Dependent Child’s Eligibility:
-
For children over 22, a medical exam and proof of disability may be required to establish dependency.
📄 Medical Exam & Police Clearance:
-
The sponsored child may need to undergo a medical exam and provide police clearances (depending on their age and country of residence).
4. Processing Time
⏳ The processing time for dependent children sponsorship typically takes 6-12 months, but this can vary depending on the applicant’s home country and the completeness of the application.
5. Types of Sponsorship for Children
📌 Inland Sponsorship
-
If the child is already in Canada (as a visitor, student, or other temporary resident), they may be eligible to apply for Inland Sponsorship.
-
The child can remain in Canada while the application is being processed.
📌 Outland Sponsorship
-
If the child is outside Canada, the application will be processed through the visa office in the child’s home country.
-
Processing times can vary based on the visa office and the situation in the child’s country.
6. Why CMG Immigration Can Help
✅ Application Assistance – Ensure all documents are correctly completed to avoid delays.
✅ Eligibility Assessment – Review the child’s situation to confirm they meet the requirements for sponsorship.
✅ Follow-up & Updates – Monitor the application process and provide regular updates to the sponsor.