The Family Class Sponsorship program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their children from overseas and grant them permanent residency in Canada. Though, it is extremely important to understand the requirements that come with the process of sponsorship.
To qualify, one must fulfill the specific criteria. First and foremost, the applicant must be of at least 18 years of age and fulfill the following categories:
- Canadian citizen
- Permanent resident living in Canada with an intention to return
- Anyone registered under the Indian Act of Canada
Also, one must be able to support a dependent child with sufficient funds. It is vital to have a clean record, with no criminal convictions, imprisonment, serious charges, or bankruptcy. Additionally, you should not have any outstanding sponsorship undertakings or be under investigation by immigration authorities. Receiving income assistance is generally not permissible unless it is due to a disability.
For your child to be considered a dependent and eligible for sponsorship, they must also meet specific criteria. They need to be your biological or adopted child, not be married or in a common-law relationship. Additionally, the dependent child should be under the age of 22. However, an exception can be made if the dependent child has any mental or physical condition and cannot support themselves. Throughout the sponsorship process, it is important for dependent children to remain unmarried and not enter into a common-law relationship until they become permanent residents.
The most crucial step of the sponsorship process is establishing the parent-child relationship. A dependent child can be either your biological child or an adopted child.Proof of the biological relationship can be provided through birth or baptismal certificate. In cases involving assisted human reproduction technologies, additional documents that demonstrate the parent-child relationship and the utilization of such technologies may be required.
The age of a dependent child is determined when the principal applicant’s complete permanent residence application is received. An unmarried child under the age of 22 will continue to be considered a dependent child until they are unmarried and their permanent residence is confirmed.
Custody issues can occasionally complicate the sponsorship process. In case, the parents are divorced or separated and the child is subject to custody orders, then the parent is required to show written consent from the other parent that they are allowed to relocate the child.
In a situation of shared custody, IRCC must obtain written confirmation from them, stating that both parents have no objection that the child is processed for permanent residence in Canada.
These custody requirements are in place to ensure compliance with custodial orders and foreign laws. In Canada, the child’s best interest is the primary consideration in custody arrangements. Therefore, an IRCC officer will thoroughly assess the circumstances and exercise judgment when deciding whether to process an application to sponsor a dependent child without written confirmation of no objection from the other parent.
Sponsoring your child for immigration to Canada is a significant decision that necessitates meeting specific eligibility criteria and providing the appropriate documentation. By understanding the requirements and processes involved, you can navigate the sponsorship process more effectively and enhance the likelihood of a successful reunion with your child in Canada.
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