Reunite Your Family in Canada
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor eligible family members for permanent residence — bringing the people who matter most to call Canada home.
See Who Qualifies ↓SPONSORSHIP AT A GLANCE
Family Categories
Three distinct pathways exist depending on which family members you wish to bring to Canada. Each has its own requirements and process.
Spouses & Partners
Sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
The relationship must be genuine and not entered for immigration purposes
Evidence: marriage certificate, joint finances, photos, communication records
Conjugal partner sponsorship requires evidence of a committed relationship where cohabitation was impossible
Dependent Children
Generally under 22 years old at the time of application
Must be unmarried and not in a common-law relationship
Children 22+ may qualify if they have depended on a parent due to a physical or mental condition since before age 22
Biological and adopted children may be eligible
Parents & Grandparents
Available through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) — invitations issued by lottery
Sponsor must meet minimum necessary income (MNI) threshold for 3 consecutive tax years
Sponsor must demonstrate ability to financially support parents/grandparents for 20 years
Alternative: Super Visa allows parents/grandparents to visit for up to 5 years at a time
ARE YOU
ELIGIBLE TO
SPONSOR?
Before sponsoring a family member, you must meet these core criteria. Failing any one of them can disqualify your application.
Age Requirement
Must be at least 18 years old at the time of sponsorship application.
Citizenship or Permanent Residency
Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Canadian citizens living abroad can sponsor a spouse, partner, or dependent child, but must intend to live in Canada when the sponsored person becomes a permanent resident.
Financial Ability
Must demonstrate the financial capacity to support the sponsored family member so they do not rely on social assistance. Income requirements are higher for parents and grandparents — sponsors must meet the Minimum Necessary Income for 3 consecutive years.
No Default on Previous Sponsorship
Sponsors must not be in default of a previous sponsorship undertaking, a previous immigration loan, or a performance bond. A previous sponsorship that relied on social assistance may disqualify you.
