Canada Family
Sponsorship Guide (2026)
Family reunification is one of the most important parts of Canada’s immigration system. The country has focused on bringing families closer together. Every year, Canada allows more than 100,000 people to come through family sponsorship programs.
What Is Family Sponsorship?
Family sponsorship allows a person to bring a family member to Canada and help them become a permanent resident. It requires the sponsor to take financial responsibility for that person, meaning the sponsor must support their basic needs for a certain time period.
Who Can Become A Sponsor?
- Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Must be at least 18 years old
- Must be able to provide financial support
Who Can Be Sponsored?
The program allows sponsorship of close family members. In some special cases, other relatives may also be sponsored if there are no other close family members.
Spouses & Partners
Dependent Children
Parents & Grandparents
Financial Responsibility
Sponsors must sign a Sponsorship Agreement promising to provide basic needs such as food, clothing, shelter, and healthcare not covered by public services.
Length of Undertaking (Excluding Quebec)
| Sponsored Person | Length |
|---|---|
| Spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner | 3 years |
| Dependent child | 10 years, or until age 25, whichever comes first |
| Dependent child 22 years of age or older | 3 years |
| Parent or grandparent | 20 years |
| Other relative | 10 years |
Length of Undertaking (Quebec)
Sponsors also complete an integration plan for individuals 18-55.
| Sponsored Person | Length |
|---|---|
| Spouse, common-law partner or conjugal partner | 3 years |
| Dependent child under 16 years of age | Minimum 10 years (or until age 18), whichever is longer |
| Dependent child 16 years of age and older | Minimum 3 years (or until age 25), whichever is longer |
| Other relatives | 10 years |
Income Requirements (LICO)
In some cases, the sponsor must meet a minimum income level known as the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO). This applies when:
- Sponsoring a spouse with children who also have children
- Sponsoring a dependent child who has children
- Sponsoring parents or grandparents
Important Note:
A sponsorship undertaking is a legal promise. It does not end if the sponsor faces financial problems, separates from the person, or if the sponsored person becomes a citizen.
Paths to Reunification
Specific programs tailored for your closest family members.
Spouse or Partner
Sponsor a legally married spouse, a common-law partner (lived together for at least 12 months), or a conjugal partner outside Canada.
Inland Sponsorship
Partner is in Canada. Can apply for an open work permit.
Outland Sponsorship
Partner lives outside Canada and waits in another country.
Dependent Children
Parents can sponsor biological and adopted children to come to Canada as PRs.
- Under 22 years of age
- Not married/common-law
- Older children may qualify if unable to support themselves due to physical/mental conditions.
Parents & Grandparents
Bring your parents or grandparents to Canada permanently or for extended visits.
PGP Program
Permanent residence program. Requires strict MNI and 20-year undertaking.
Super Visa Program
Multiple-entry visa lasting up to 10 years for extended visits.
Steps To Apply
Eligibility
Check if the sponsor meets all conditions.
Qualify
Check if the family member qualifies.
Submit
Submit PR and sponsorship applications together.
Fees
Pay all required processing fees.
Send
Mail or submit to correct IRCC address.
Frequently Asked Questions
Reunite with Your Loved Ones
Let our experts handle the paperwork. Get clear guidance on income requirements, applications, and documents to successfully sponsor your family to Canada.