Canadian immigration policy recognizes the
fundamental importance of assisting immigrants reunite their
families in Canada. Accordingly, family reunification is a
key objective of Citizenship and Immigration Canada (CIC).
The CIC is the government agency responsible for all
immigration and citizenship matters including family
sponsorship. The CIC refers to those who are eligible to use
the family sponsorship process as the Family Class.
A permanent resident of Canada or a Canadian citizen may
sponsor a spouse, dependent child or other eligible
relative, such as a sibling, parent or grandparent, to
become a Canadian permanent resident. The eligibility to
sponsor a spouse also extends to common law and same sex
partners.
Those who sponsor a relative to come to Canada as a
permanent resident, undertake significant legal
responsibilities including the obligation to support the
family member financially upon arrival. A sponsor must
ensure that the spouse or relative does not seek government
financial assistance.
Those admitted to Canada as a family class immigrant
become permanent residents. They can live, study and work in
Canada. They enjoy the same rights and privileges as all
Canadians except the right to vote which is an exclusive
right of citizenship.
Any Canadian citizen or permanent resident may apply to
become a sponsor. There are two different processes for
sponsoring your family depending on the relationship to the
family member.
This area of immigration law can be complex and presents
considerable legal considerations. As such, one should
always always seek the appropriate legal assistance before
proceeding.
