#5. Family Sponsorship: Dependent Child

The Family Sponsorship Program enables Canadian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with their loved ones by sponsoring their dependent children for Canadian permanent residence. Whether your child is biological or adopted, you can bring them to Canada if they meet the eligibility criteria as a dependent child. 

Who qualifies as a Dependent Child?

To qualify for sponsorship, a child must be unmarried, not in a common-law relationship, and under the age of 22. Children over the age of 22 can still be considered dependents if they have a physical or mental condition that prevents them from supporting themselves financially.

Eligibility Requirements for Sponsors

To sponsor your child or other dependent for permanent residence in Canada, you must meet the following conditions:

• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident currently residing in Canada
• Be at least 18 years of age
• Not be in prison, charged with a serious offense, or bankrupt

Additionally, you’ll need to provide proof of your relationship with the child, such as a birth certificate or adoption papers. If you are in the process of adopting a child, you may still sponsor them, even if the adoption has not been finalized yet.

Minimum Income Requirements (MNI)

Unlike other family sponsorship programs, you do not need to meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) when sponsoring a dependent child, as long as the child does not have children of their own. However, if the dependent child you are sponsoring has their own children, you will need to meet the MNI based on your family unit size.

Next Steps

Once your sponsorship application is approved, your dependent child will be granted Canadian permanent residence, allowing them to live, study, and work in Canada.

Learn about Family Sponsorship: Spousal Sponsorship.

Learn about Express Entry to Canada.

Official IRCC Family Sponsorship document checklist page.

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Reuniting families is a core value of Canada's immigration system. By sponsoring your dependent child, you can help bring your family together and provide them with the opportunity to build a future in Canada. If you're considering this process, it's important to ensure all documentation is complete and accurate to avoid delays.

If you need assistance with your application, contact our team at D&D Law for expert guidance.

Until our next article, take care and stay amazing! 🍁

D&D Law