Sponsoring Dependent Children to Canada
A Complete Guide 2025
This page provides detailed information on Sponsoring Dependent Children to Canada. For a general overview of all family sponsorship options, please refer to our main Family Sponsorship Canada page.
Sponsoring Dependent Children to Canada: A Complete Guide
Reuniting families is at the heart of Canada’s immigration policy. For parents separated from their children by borders, sponsoring a dependent child for immigration to Canada is one of the most meaningful and transformative legal processes. It enables families to build their lives together in a safe, stable environment.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the dependent child sponsorship process, from eligibility criteria to required documents. Whether you are a permanent resident or a Canadian citizen hoping to bring your child to Canada, this article will help you understand your options.
Because immigration rules can be complex and change frequently, accurate information and professional guidance are essential to ensure a smooth application process and avoid delays or refusals.
Table of Contents
Understanding Dependent Child Sponsorship
What is Dependent Child Sponsorship?
Dependent child sponsorship is a pathway under Canada’s Family Class immigration program that allows a Canadian citizen or permanent resident to sponsor their child for permanent residence. The goal is to preserve family unity by enabling parents and children to live together in Canada.
This category is distinct from other sponsorship streams, such as spousal or parental sponsorship, and has its own definition and documentation requirements.
Definition of a Dependent Child
A dependent child, according to Canadian immigration law, is:
- Under 22 years of age and not married or in a common-law relationship; or
- 22 years of age or older, and has depended substantially on the financial support of a parent since before the age of 22, and is unable to support themselves due to a physical or mental condition.
Children must meet this definition both at the time the application is received and at the time the application is finalized.
Benefits of Sponsoring a Dependent Child
Sponsoring your child for immigration to Canada offers many advantages:
- Permanent residency for your child, allowing access to public education and healthcare.
- Pathway to citizenship, if the child resides in Canada for the required time.
- Family unity, eliminating the emotional and financial toll of long-term separation.
- Legal security, allowing your child to build a life in Canada without uncertainty
What is Dependent Child Sponsorship?
Dependent Child Sponsorship in Canada allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their biological or adopted children to become permanent residents. This program ensures that children can live, study, and grow up in Canada with the care and support of their parent(s).
It is designed to reunite families and falls under the Family Class sponsorship category within Canadian immigration law.
What is Family Class Sponsorship?
Family Class sponsorship in Canada enables Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor certain relatives including spouses, common-law partners, parents, grandparents, and dependent children to become permanent residents.
This sponsorship gives family members the opportunity to live, study, and work in Canada, and is one of the key pillars of Canada’s commitment to family reunification in its immigration system.
Do you want to sponsor your child to come to Canada and start a new chapter together?
At LMRT Immigration Consultant, we leave no family behind.
Our team will walk you through every step from assessing eligibility to final approval with dedication and transparency.
Eligibility Requirements for Sponsoring a Dependent Child
Sponsoring a dependent child to Canada involves meeting eligibility criteria for both the sponsor and the child being sponsored. Fulfilling these requirements is essential to avoid delays, refusals, or inadmissibility findings in the immigration process.
Requirements for the Sponsor
To be eligible to sponsor a dependent child, the sponsor must:
- Be a Canadian citizen, a person registered in Canada as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act, or a permanent resident of Canada.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Reside in Canada, or plan to return to Canada when the child becomes a permanent resident (if currently living abroad and the sponsor is a citizen).
- Sign an undertaking to financially support the child for a specific period (typically 10 years or until the child turns 25, whichever comes first).
- Not be in default of previous sponsorship undertakings, immigration loans, performance bonds, or court-ordered support payments.
- Not be bankrupt, incarcerated, or convicted of certain crimes, especially those related to family violence or offenses against a child.
- Not be under a removal order if the sponsor is a permanent resident.
Requirements for the Dependent Child
To qualify as a dependent child, the person being sponsored must meet one of the following conditions both when the application is received and when it is finalized:
- Be under 22 years of age and not married or in a common-law relationship;
OR - Be 22 years of age or older, and:
- Have substantially depended on the financial support of a parent since before turning 22, AND
- Be unable to financially support themselves due to a physical or mental condition.
Age Limits and Exceptions
Generally, once a child turns 22 years old, they are no longer considered a “dependent child” for immigration purposes. However, there are exceptions:
- If the child is financially dependent on a parent because of a physical or mental disability, they may still qualify, even if they are over 22.
- The age lock-in rule applies: The child’s age is locked at the time the application is received, not when it is processed or finalized. This helps protect eligibility during long processing times.
Am I Eligible to Sponsor my Child?
You may be eligible to sponsor your child if you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, 18 years or older, and not subject to ineligibility conditions such as bankruptcy, imprisonment, or criminal offenses related to family violence.
Does my Child Qualify for Sponsorship?
Your child qualifies for sponsorship if they are under 22 years old and unmarried, or if they are 22 or older but have a physical or mental condition that has kept them dependent on you financially since before turning 22.
Who is Eligible to Sponsor a Dependent Child?
Eligible sponsors include:
➤ Canadian citizens, including those living abroad (if they intend to return to Canada),
➤ Permanent residents living in Canada,
➤ Registered Indians under the Canadian Indian Act.
They must meet financial, legal, and residency-related requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Who Cannot Sponsor a Dependent Child?
You cannot sponsor a child if you:
➤ Are in prison, bankrupt, or in default of a previous sponsorship.
➤ Have a criminal record involving certain offenses, especially related to children or family violence.
➤ Are a permanent resident under a removal order.
➤ Do not meet the minimum legal and financial conditions required by IRCC.
Can You Sponsor Someone Who is Not Your Biological Child?
Yes. You can sponsor:
➤ Your adopted child (as long as the legal adoption process is complete),
➤ Your stepchild if you are also sponsoring the spouse/partner who is the child’s biological parent,
➤ A child in your custody, if you have legal guardianship and can prove the relationship and dependency.
Each of these situations has additional documentation and legal requirements under IRCC rules.
The Dependent Children Sponsorship Process: A Step-by-Step Guide
Once you confirm that both you and your child are eligible, the next step is to begin the sponsorship application process. While the process can seem overwhelming, breaking it down into manageable steps can help you move forward with confidence and clarity.
Below is a step-by-step guide to sponsoring a dependent child for immigration to Canada.
1. Gather the Required Documents
Before starting the application, collect all the necessary documents. These may include:
- Your proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residence
- Your child’s birth certificate or legal adoption papers
- Passports and travel documents
- Custody or legal guardianship documents, if applicable
- Supporting documents proving your relationship with the child
Refer to the official IRCC document checklist here:
🔗 Document Checklist – Sponsorship of a Dependent Child (IMM 5287)
2. Complete the Application Forms
You must complete two sets of forms:
- Sponsorship application forms (for the sponsor)
- Permanent residence application forms (for the child)
Download the complete application package here:
🔗 IRCC Application Package for Sponsoring a Dependent Child
Make sure to:
- Answer all questions accurately
- Sign all forms
- Include supporting documents and translations if needed
3. Pay the Application Fees
Fees may include:
- Sponsorship fee
- Principal applicant processing fee
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)
Use IRCC’s fee calculator and payment portal:
🔗 Pay your fees – Government of Canada
4. Submit Your Application
Once your forms and documents are ready:
- Submit the entire application online through the IRCC portal or by mail (if eligible).
- Keep a copy for your records and ensure you get confirmation of submission.
5. Biometrics
After submitting the application, your child may be asked to provide biometric information (fingerprints and a photograph), usually at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
You will receive a biometric instruction letter (BIL) with details after your application is received.
6. Medical Exams and Background Checks
Yes. All dependent children must complete a medical examination by a panel physician approved by IRCC. This ensures the child is not inadmissible for medical reasons.
Children over the age of 18 may also undergo a background check or provide police clearance certificates, depending on their country of residence.
More info:
🔗 Medical exams for immigration – IRCC
7. Wait for a Decision
Current processing times for dependent child sponsorship applications vary depending on the country and completeness of the file. As of 2025, most applications are processed within 8 to 12 months.
Check real-time estimates here:
🔗 Check IRCC Processing Times
How does Sponsoring a Child for Immigration Work?
You complete a sponsorship application as a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, submit it to IRCC with the required documents and fees, and your child undergoes medical and biometric checks. If approved, they receive permanent resident status and can join you in Canada.
What are the Processing Times for Child Sponsorship Applications?
Processing times range from 8 to 12 months, depending on the complexity of the case and the child’s country of residence. Visit IRCC’s website for the latest updates.
How Can I Avoid Delays or Rejections in My Sponsorship Application?
To avoid delays:
➤ Use the correct and most recent application forms
➤ Include all required documents and translations
➤ Ensure forms are fully completed and signed
➤ Pay all applicable fees
➤ Respond promptly to any IRCC requests for additional information
Can I Check the Status of My Child’s Sponsorship Application?
Yes, you can check the status online using your IRCC secure account:
🔗 IRCC Application Status Tracker
You will also receive email or mail notifications about updates to the application.
What Happens After Sponsorship?
If the application is approved:
➤ Your child receives a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and possibly a Permanent Resident Visa (if they are outside Canada).
➤ Upon arrival in Canada, they become a permanent resident and gain access to healthcare, education, and other public services.
➤ Eventually, they may apply for Canadian citizenship after fulfilling residency requirements.
Financial Requirements and Obligations
Income Requirement for Sponsoring a Dependent Child
In most cases, there is no minimum income requirement to sponsor a dependent child, unless:
- The sponsored child has their own dependent child (i.e., you are sponsoring a grandchild along with your child); or
- You are sponsoring more than one family member under the Family Class and reside in Quebec, where different financial standards apply.
Outside Quebec, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) does not require a minimum income for dependent child-only sponsorships, but the sponsor must not be receiving social assistance, unless it is for disability reasons.
Sponsor’s Financial Obligations
Although no fixed income threshold exists, the sponsor must commit to supporting the sponsored child by signing an undertaking agreement. This includes:
- Providing basic needs such as food, shelter, clothing, and medical expenses not covered by public health insurance.
- Preventing the sponsored child from having to seek social assistance.
- The length of the undertaking is typically:
- 10 years from the day the child becomes a permanent resident, or
- Until the child turns 25 years old, whichever comes first.
How Much Income Do I Need to Sponsor My Child in Canada?
For most cases, there is no specific income amount required to sponsor your dependent child unless your child has dependent children of their own, or you live in Quebec. However, you must not be receiving social assistance (except for disability) and must show the financial ability to support your child.
Is There an Income Requirement for Sponsoring a Dependent Child?
No, not usually. The general Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) does not apply to sponsors of dependent children unless:
➤ The child has dependent children of their own, or
➤ The sponsor resides in Quebec.
Special Cases and Considerations
Sponsoring Your Adopted Child
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor a child they have adopted or are in the process of adopting. However, the process varies depending on whether the adoption occurs inside or outside Canada.
Key points:
- You must wait until the adoption process is finalized before applying for sponsorship if the child resides outside Canada.
- If adopting within Canada, you may be able to apply after receiving proof of permanent guardianship or custody.
- Additional documentation will be required, including:
- Proof of legal adoption
- Proof of relationship
- Consent from biological parents (if required by law)
Refer to IRCC’s guidelines here:
🔗 Adopting a child from outside Canada
Sponsoring Children from Previous Relationships
If the child was born from a previous relationship (e.g., spouse, former spouse, or common-law partner), the sponsorship application must include:
- Custody documents or legal consent from the other parent, especially if they are not immigrating to Canada.
- A clear explanation of the relationship and why the child is joining only one parent.
- If you are sponsoring your new partner’s child, you must also sponsor the partner unless you have legal guardianship of the child.
Do I Have to Wait Until the Adoption Process is Finalized Before Submitting a Sponsorship Application?
Yes, if your child is being adopted from outside Canada, you must wait until the legal adoption is complete before you can submit the sponsorship application.
Do I Need to Wait Until the Adoption is Final Before I Begin the Sponsorship Process?
You can start gathering documents and preparing the application early, but you must wait until the adoption is finalized to submit your application for sponsorship through IRCC.
Life in Canada for a Sponsored Child
What to Expect Upon Arrival
Once your sponsored child arrives in Canada as a permanent resident, they will have access to many of the same rights and opportunities as any other Canadian resident. This includes access to:
- Public Education: Your child can attend school for free through the public school system.
- Healthcare: They will be eligible for public health coverage in the province or territory where they live.
- Community Programs: Free or low-cost community services such as language classes, sports, and cultural programs.
- Path to Citizenship: After meeting the required number of years of residency, your child may be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship.
Can I Bring My 2 Children Aged 10 and 12 with Me to Canada on a Study Visa?
Yes, but a study visa for the parent does not automatically grant permanent residence to children. However, children of international students can usually attend public schools without needing their own study permit.
If you want your children to live permanently in Canada, a family sponsorship through the dependent child stream is the correct pathway.
Client Testimonials
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Why Choose Our Immigration Firm?
At LMRT Immigration Services, we specialize in helping families sponsor a family member especially dependent children with accuracy, empathy, and professionalism.
Our Experience in Dependent Child Sponsorship
Client Success Stories
“We thought we’d never be able to bring our daughter to Canada after the custody battle. LMRT Immigration guided us through every step—now our daughter is thriving in school here in Montreal!”
– Samer A., sponsored daughter from Lebanon
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– F. & M. Diakité, sponsored child from Côte d’Ivoire
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(FAQ) Frequently Asked Questions about Sponsoring Dependent Children to Canada
Can a parent sponsor a child over 21 in Canada?
Yes, but only under specific conditions. A child over 21 (i.e., 22 years or older) may still be considered a dependent child if they:
➤ Have depended financially on you since before they turned 22, and
➤ Are unable to support themselves due to a physical or mental condition.
Otherwise, a child over 21 is not eligible for dependent child sponsorship.
How long does it take to sponsor a dependent child to Canada?
The average processing time for a dependent child sponsorship application is approximately 8 to 12 months, depending on:
➤ The country of the child’s residence,
➤ Whether the application is complete at the time of submission, and
➤ The case complexity (e.g., custody disputes, medical exams, missing documents).
Check current timelines here:
🔗 IRCC Processing Times
Can I sponsor my independent child to Canada?
No. A child who is over 22, married, or financially independent, and does not meet the medical dependency exception, is not considered a dependent child and therefore cannot be sponsored under the dependent child category.
However, if they qualify under another immigration stream (e.g., student visa, skilled worker), they may apply independently.
Can I sponsor my child to Canada?
Yes, if your child meets the criteria of a dependent child and you are eligible as a sponsor (i.e., a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, not in default of previous undertakings, etc.).
Sponsoring dependent child to Canada?
Sponsoring a dependent child to Canada is part of the Family Class immigration program. You submit a sponsorship application and your child’s permanent residence application together. Once approved, your child can live, study, and eventually work in Canada as a permanent resident.
Who qualifies as a dependent child?
According to IRCC, a dependent child is:
➤ Under 22 years old and not married or in a common-law relationship,
OR
➤ 22 years or older, but financially dependent on you since before the age of 22 due to a physical or mental condition.
Who can sponsor a dependent child to immigrate to Canada?
You can sponsor a dependent child if you are:
➤ A Canadian citizen, or
➤ A permanent resident residing in Canada, or
➤ A person registered under the Indian Act, and you meet IRCC’s legal and financial eligibility criteria.
I have already obtained permanent resident status; is it too late to add my dependent child to my application?
It depends. If your child was declared and included in your original application but was not able to travel with you, you may be able to sponsor them now.
However, if your child was not declared or omitted, this could be considered misrepresentation, which may prevent you from sponsoring them. It’s crucial to speak with an immigration consultant or lawyer in such cases.
Will I have to prove that I am eligible to sponsor my child?
Yes. You must provide:
➤ Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent resident status,
➤ Evidence of age (18+),
➤ Proof that you are not receiving social assistance (unless for disability),
➤ Documents showing you are not in default of previous sponsorships, court orders, or immigration loans.
IRCC assesses these documents to determine if you qualify to sponsor a dependent child to Canada.
Can I sponsor a child who is over the age limit to qualify as a dependent?
Only in very specific cases. If your child is 22 years of age or older, they can only be considered a dependent child if:
➤ They have been financially dependent on you since before turning 22, and
➤ They are unable to support themselves due to a physical or mental condition.
If they don’t meet these conditions, they cannot be sponsored as a dependent child, but may be eligible to immigrate under a different stream.
I am a Canadian Citizen, and I have conceived a child abroad, does that child automatically become a Canadian Citizen?
Possibly. If at least one biological or legal parent is a Canadian citizen at the time of the child’s birth, the child may be eligible for Canadian citizenship by descent, even if born outside Canada.
However, there are important exceptions especially if you were also born outside Canada so it’s best to check the rules and apply for a proof of citizenship:
🔗 Apply for a Citizenship Certificate (Proof of Citizenship)
I’m 22 years old. Can I go to Canada with my parents on a dependent visa?
Not usually. At age 22 or older, you no longer qualify as a dependent child, unless you:
➤ Have a serious disability or medical condition, and
➤ Have been financially dependent on your parents since before turning 22.
Otherwise, you would need to apply to immigrate to Canada through a separate program, such as a study permit, work visa, or skilled immigration stream.
Is the Process of Sponsoring a Child Different in Quebec?
Yes. Quebec has its own sponsorship rules and procedures, in addition to federal requirements.
If you live in Quebec:
➤ You must first be approved federally by IRCC, then
➤ Sign an undertaking with Quebec’s Ministry of Immigration, Francisation and Integration (MIFI)
Quebec also sets its own financial requirements, even for dependent child sponsorships.
🔗 Quebec Immigration – Sponsorship Undertaking
Is There a Deadline for Canadian Sponsorship Applications?
There is no fixed deadline, but you should apply as soon as possible—especially if your child is approaching the age limit (22 years). If your child turns 22 before the application is submitted, they may no longer qualify unless they meet the medical exception.
Also, delays in submitting complete applications may result in:
➤ Longer processing times, or
➤ Ineligibility due to age or life changes.
Is There an Age Limit for Sponsorship in Canada?
Yes. To sponsor a dependent child, they must be:
➤ Under 22 years old and not married or in a common-law relationship,
➤ Or, if 22 or older, dependent due to a physical or mental condition.
For the sponsor, you must be at least 18 years old to be eligible.
My dependent’s Canadian visa was refused. What can I do next?
If a child or dependent is refused a visa, you may:
➤ Appeal to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) if eligible (only for sponsorship refusals, not temporary visas),
➤ Request a reconsideration, if there was a processing error,
➤ Submit a new application, correcting any errors or providing stronger supporting documents.
Each refusal includes a reasons letter carefully review it or speak with a qualified immigration consultant to understand your options.
What are the Requirements for Sponsoring a Child?
To sponsor a child to Canada, you must:
➤ Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered under the Indian Act
➤ Be at least 18 years old
➤ Not be in default of previous sponsorships or court-ordered support payments
➤ Not be receiving social assistance (except for disability)
➤ Submit a complete application, including forms, fees, and required documents
The child must meet the definition of a dependent child as per IRCC rules.
What are the Requirements for Bringing Children to Canada?
The requirements depend on whether you’re bringing your children as:
➤ Dependents under a family sponsorship program
➤ Accompanying minors under a study or work permit
➤ Adopted children under international or domestic adoption protocols
Generally, children must:
➤ Be listed on your immigration application (if applicable)
➤ Pass medical exams
➤ Be under 22 years of age and unmarried, unless medically dependent
What Documents Are Required in Order to Bring a Child to Canada?
Key documents include:
➤ Proof of your Canadian status (citizenship or PR)
➤ Child’s birth certificate or adoption papers
➤ Passport and photos for immigration
➤ Custody or legal guardianship documents (if applicable)
➤ Medical exam reports and possibly police certificates
➤ Completed and signed application forms
Refer to the official IRCC checklist:
🔗 Document Checklist – Sponsorship of a Dependent Child (IMM 5287)
What Fees Are Involved in the Family Sponsorship Application?
As of 2025, the fees typically include:
➤ Sponsorship fee: $85 CAD
➤ Principal applicant processing fee: $75 CAD
➤ Right of permanent residence fee (RPRF): $515 CAD (if applicable)
Use the official IRCC fee tool:
🔗 Pay Your Fees – IRCC
What Qualifies a Child as a Dependent Under Canadian Immigration Rules?
A dependent child is:
➤ Under 22 years old, and not married or in a common-law relationship.
OR
➤ 22 or older, financially dependent since before age 22 due to a physical or mental condition.
The child must meet this definition when the application is submitted and finalized.
Which Family Members Can I Sponsor to Come to Canada?
Under the Family Class sponsorship program, you can sponsor:
➤ Spouse or common-law partner
➤ Dependent children
➤ Parents and grandparents
➤ In rare cases, orphaned siblings, nieces/nephews, or grandchildren
➤ One relative of any type (if you have no other eligible family to sponsor)
Who Can Sponsor Their Family?
You can sponsor your family if you are:
➤ A Canadian citizen or permanent resident
➤ 18 years or older
➤ Not in jail, bankrupt, or in default on a previous immigration or child support obligation
Who Isn’t Eligible to Sponsor a Relative?
You cannot sponsor a relative if you:
➤ Are under 18 years old
➤ Are not a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
➤ Are in prison, undischarged from bankruptcy, or under a removal order
➤ Have committed certain criminal offenses (especially involving family violence)
➤ Are in default of a previous sponsorship
Will It Be Sensible to Consider Immigration to Canada?
Yes, for many people. Canada offers:
➤ A strong public healthcare and education system
➤ A high standard of living and personal safety
➤ Diverse, inclusive communities
➤ Clear immigration pathways for families and skilled workers
However, each case is unique. It’s essential to consult with a qualified immigration professional to determine if immigration to Canada is the right decision for you and your family.
Disclaimer: Information is subject to change. Always refer to the official Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website for the most current information.