Discover How to Sponsor Dependent Children in Canada

In Canada, the Dependent Child Sponsorship program falls under Family Sponsorship, aimed at reuniting parents and children. This program allows both natural and adopted dependent children to be sponsored as permanent residents. In this blog, we will explore the eligibility requirements for both sponsors and sponsored children, as well as provide information on the process and options available.

Sponsor Requirements: To be eligible as a sponsor, individuals must meet certain criteria:

1. Age: The sponsor must be at least 18 years old.
2. Citizenship or Permanent Residency: The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen, or a permanent resident residing in Canada.
3. Legal Standing: The sponsor must not be in prison, bankrupt, under a removal order (if a permanent resident), or charged with a serious offence.

Requirements for the Sponsored Child: The child being sponsored must meet specific dependency criteria:

1. Age: The child must be under 22 years old and either a biological or adopted child. Alternatively, if the child is 22 years or older, they must have depended substantially on the financial support of the parent since before the age of 22 and be unable to be financially self-supporting due to a physical or mental condition.

Nature of the Relationship: The sponsored child must either be the sponsor’s biological child (if the child has not been adopted by someone other than the spouse or common-law partner) or the sponsor’s adopted child.

Dependent Child Sponsorship Program in Quebec: For sponsors residing in Quebec, additional requirements and commitments apply. The sponsor must make a financial commitment to support the sponsored child. The duration of the commitment depends on the child’s age:

1. If the child is under 16, the sponsor must provide financial support for ten years or until the child turns 18, whichever comes first.
2. If the child is 16 or older, the sponsor must provide financial support for three years or until the child turns 25, whichever comes first.

Seek Professional Assistance:
Navigating the Dependent Child Sponsorship process can be complex. Seeking professional advice and assistance from licensed immigration experts is highly recommended. They can provide guidance on the requirements, application process, and ensure all necessary documents are included.

Conclusion:

The Dependent Child Sponsorship program in Canada plays a crucial role in reuniting families. Whether through biological or adoptive relationships, sponsors have the opportunity to bring their dependent children to Canada as permanent residents. By understanding the eligibility requirements and seeking professional assistance, sponsors can navigate the process smoothly and achieve the goal of being reunited with their children.

If you are interested in sponsoring your dependent child to Canada, consider booking a consultation with our licensed immigration experts. Our knowledgeable team of Regulated Immigration Consultants can provide the necessary guidance and support throughout the Dependent Child Sponsorship Visa application process. Reuniting families is our priority, and we are here to assist you every step of the way.