In a move that has stirred significant discussion, Quebec’s Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI) has announced a cap on family sponsorship applications. Effective from June 26, 2024, to June 25, 2026, this policy change imposes strict limits on the number of family sponsorships in Canada, significantly impacting the landscape of family reunification in the province.
Breakdown of the Cap
The new cap restricts the total number of family sponsorship applications to 13,000 over the two-year period. This limit is divided as follows:
10,400 applications for spouses, common-law partners, and dependent children aged 18 and up.
2,600 applications for parents, grandparents, and other eligible relatives.
Once this cap is reached, MIFI will halt the acceptance of additional applications for the duration of the cap period.
Exemptions to the Cap
Certain categories are exempt from the cap:
Dependent minor children of the sponsor.
Minor children the sponsor wishes to adopt.
Orphaned minor children of the sponsor’s siblings or grandchildren.
Adult children dependent on a parent due to a disability.
To qualify for these exemptions, the sponsored individual must not be married or in a common-law relationship.
Additionally, the cap does not affect applications to add a dependent to a sponsored person’s existing application or to a person awaiting admission as a permanent resident after an approved application.
Reasons Behind the Cap
Quebec Premier François Legault has attributed the province’s housing crisis to the influx of temporary residents. By imposing this cap, the government aims to manage the province’s population growth and housing demands more effectively. However, this decision has also sparked debate about its potential impact on families hoping to reunite in Canada.
How the Cap Affects Family Sponsorships in Canada
The imposition of this cap means that many families may face delays or be unable to submit their sponsorship applications within the capped period. Those affected must act quickly to submit their applications before the cap is reached. MIFI will announce when the cap is met, and any non-exempt applications received afterward will be returned without processing or charging a fee.
What Applicants Need to Know
Act Quickly: If you plan to sponsor a family member, submit your application as soon as possible.
Check Exemptions: Verify if your sponsorship category is exempt from the cap.
Stay Informed: Keep an eye on MIFI announcements regarding the cap status.
The introduction of this cap represents a significant shift in the family sponsorship landscape in Quebec. While aimed at addressing housing concerns, it presents new challenges for those seeking to reunite with their loved ones in Canada. Understanding the details of the cap, knowing the exemptions, and acting promptly can help navigate this new policy effectively.
As the situation evolves, staying informed and prepared is crucial for anyone affected by these changes. The landscape of family sponsorships in Canada is shifting, and being proactive is key to ensuring successful applications.
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