Who can sponsor a family member
A sponsor must be at least 18 and generally live in Canada. A Canadian citizen living abroad may sponsor if they can show they will return to live in Canada when the sponsored person becomes a permanent resident. A permanent resident living abroad cannot sponsor from outside Canada.
- Check the sponsor eligibility rules and any restrictions from previous sponsorships
- Understand the financial responsibilities of signing a sponsorship undertaking
- Most spouse, partner and dependent child cases have no minimum income requirement, but exceptions apply
Family Class or in-Canada class?
Spouses and common-law partners living together in Canada may qualify for the in-Canada class. The Family Class is used for conjugal partners and dependent children sponsored on their own, and may also apply to a spouse or common-law partner, including one living outside Canada.
- Check where the applicant will live while the file is processed
- Review temporary status and travel separately from the sponsorship application
- Some sponsored family members in Canada may qualify for a separate open work permit
Documents that show the relationship
Use the IRCC checklist for your relationship and country of residence. For example, proof that you live together may matter in a common-law application. If you are sponsoring a child, check whether IRCC asks for custody documents or consent from the other parent.
- Check that names and dates match across forms and documents
- Include the required translations and country-specific documents
- Explain missing documents instead of leaving gaps in the application
Submitting a sponsorship application does not, by itself, give the applicant temporary status or permission to work. Check IRCC's separate rules before a permit expires or before starting work.
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