Did you know that Canada welcomed 350,000 immigrants in 2020? Are you considering bringing a family member to Canada? To do that, one thing you need to consider is family sponsorship, but it can be overwhelming if you don't know what the procedure is all about. Keep on reading this comprehensive guide to learn about the family sponsorship process in Canada.
What is Family Sponsorship?
Family sponsorship is a petition or process that someone goes through when a family member is interested in migrating to another country. Depending on the area you live in, if you're able to qualify to become a sponsor for your family, you may only be allowed to sponsor your immediate relatives. The point of a family sponsorship is to help bring families back together that have gotten separated. Now that you've got an idea of what family sponsorship is, here are the eligibility requirements for those looking to become sponsors.
Eligibility Requirements
In order to qualify as a sponsor, there are specific requirements that must get met beforehand. First, anyone who wants to be a sponsor must be older than 18 years of age and be a citizen or a permanent resident of Canada. Otherwise, you would need to be registered under the Indian Act as an Indian living in Canada. If you currently don't live in Canada, you will be required to present documentation that you plan to relocate to the area when the family member you're sponsoring does. The last requirement we want to touch on is the act of being able to care for the person you're sponsoring. You will need to have a steady income and show documentation of this income before you're able to become a sponsor.
How To Apply?
When you're applying, there are two applications that you must fill out. The first application is where you'll provide all your documentation to be approved as a sponsor. The second application will be the one in which the person you're sponsoring will apply to become a permanent resident of Canada. After you've received the application, take your time to collect all information for both applications. All of the forms within the package will need to be filled out and submitted. While the package does come with a step-by-step guide that walks you through the process, it is recommended to get the help of an experienced immigration lawyer who can help you identify any errors in your application and provide you with a thorough consultation.
Family Sponsorship: Step-By-Step
Family sponsorship is an important process for families coming together in Canada. We hope this guide gave an overview of who is eligible to become a sponsor and the process to go through when filling out the application. If you're looking for legal help in the Canadian immigration process, contact Phoenix Legal in Calgary. We've got the expertise and knowledge to help your family members successfully relocate to Canada.