- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada.
- Be living in Canada or demonstrate that you will return to Canada once the sponsored family member(s) become(s) a permanent resident.
- Sign a sponsorship agreement that outlines your commitment to provide financial support for the sponsored family member(s) for a certain period of time.
- Demonstrate that you have sufficient income to provide financial support for the sponsored family member(s). You will need to meet the minimum necessary income threshold, which varies depending on the size of your family unit and the number of people you are sponsoring.
- Not be in default of any previous sponsorship or court-ordered support payments.
- Not be bankrupt or in receivership.
- Not have been convicted of certain criminal offenses, including domestic violence, sexual assault, or an offense against a dependent.
It’s important to note that the eligibility requirements may vary depending on the type of family member you are sponsoring.
As a sponsor under the Family Sponsorship Program, you can sponsor the following types of family members:
- Spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner: You can sponsor your spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner if you are legally married, have lived together continuously for at least one year, or have a relationship of some permanence and have been prevented from living together due to circumstances beyond your control (e.g. immigration barriers).
For Spousal Visa Go to the other page under Temporary Residencies
- Dependent children: You can sponsor your dependent children, including adopted children, stepchildren, or children under your care and control, who are under the age of 22 and not married or in a common-law relationship.
- Parents and grandparents: You can sponsor your parents and grandparents, subject to meeting certain income requirements and demonstrating that you can provide financial support for them.
- Other eligible relatives: In some cases, you may be able to sponsor other eligible relatives, such as siblings, nieces, or nephews, if they meet certain criteria, including being orphaned, under the age of 18, and not having a spouse or common-law partner.
It’s important to note that eligibility requirements may vary depending on the type of family member you are sponsoring. Working with a licensed and experienced immigration consultant can help you understand the eligibility requirements and navigate the application process.