Dreaming of bringing your family to live in Canada? The Dependent visa program offers a pathway to permanent residence for spouses, children, parents, and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. This guide simplifies the process, explaining eligibility requirements, processing times, and associated fees. Whether you’re a sponsor or a dependent, this comprehensive resource will help you navigate your journey to Canada.

What is a Canadian Dependant Visa?

A Canadian dependent visa is your ticket! It lets you, a Canadian resident, sponsor your spouse, children, parents, and even grandparents to join you in Canada. This special visa allows them to live in Canada with you, giving your family a chance to reunite and build a life together.

This visa goes beyond just visiting. Once approved, dependents can apply for work or study permits, allowing them to pursue careers or education in Canada. Eligible family includes spouses, minor children, parents, adopted children outside Canada, and potentially siblings and grandparents.

Bringing Your Children to Canada: A Guide to the Child Visa

The Canadian Dependent visa program allows eligible Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their minor children to live in Canada. This program fosters family reunification and offers a pathway for your children to build a future in Canada. Here’s a breakdown of the types of children eligible under this program:

• Adopted Children: If you adopted a child outside of Canada while you were a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, they may qualify for a Child Visa.
• Children You Intend to Adopt in Canada: In certain situations, you can sponsor a child you plan to adopt within Canada through this visa program.
• Orphaned Relatives (In Specific Cases): In some cases, you may be able to sponsor orphaned siblings, nephews, nieces, grandchildren, or granddaughters under this program. However, they must meet specific eligibility criteria.

Remember:

• There are age limitations for dependent children (usually under 22 years old).
• You’ll need to demonstrate your financial ability to support your child.

For more information and eligibility requirements, visit the official Canadian government website (https://www.canada.ca/en/immigration-refugees-citizenship/services/immigrate-canada/family-sponsorship.html).

Bringing Your Child to Canada: Eligibility for a Dependent Visa (98 words)

There are specific requirements for children seeking a Canadian dependent visa. Here’s a breakdown:

• Age & Marital Status: Under 22 and unmarried (no spouse or common-law partner).
• Relationship: Biological or adopted child of the sponsor.
• Financial Dependence: Must rely on the sponsor for financial support. (Exception: No age limit for children with a mental or physical disability preventing self-sufficiency.)
• Sponsor Proof: Sponsor must document their relationship to the child.
• Medical & Criminal Checks: Medical exam by a government-approved physician and a criminal background check are required.

Eligibility for a Canadian Dependent Visa

Canadians or permanent residents can sponsor family for a Dependent visa, but there are requirements. Here’s a quick guide:

• Be 18 or Over: You must be an adult to sponsor dependents.
• Canadian Status: Sponsors need to be citizens, permanent residents, or registered under the Indian Act.
• Financially Independent: You cannot receive social assistance (with exceptions for disability).
• Financial Ability: Demonstrate you can support your dependents’ basic needs.

Not Just You: Dependent Eligibility Requirements

While you can sponsor family, they also need to meet some criteria. Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Spouses/Partners: Must be 18+ and legally married (spouse) or living together for 12+ months (common-law partner).
• Dependent Children: Generally under 22, but older children with financial dependence due to disability or pre-existing support can qualify. They cannot be married or in a common-law partnership.
• Parents/Grandparents: Must be blood relatives or adopted by the sponsor. Step-parents/grandparents may be eligible under specific circumstances.

Essential Documents for Your Canadian Dependent Visa Application 

Before embarking on your journey to reunite with family in Canada, ensure you have all the necessary documentation. Here’s a checklist to streamline your Canadian Dependent Visa application process:

• Personal Documents (Applicant):
  • Valid Indian Passport & Travel History (IMM 5406)
  • Generic Application Form (IMM 0008)
  • Additional Family Information (IMM 5404)
  • Schedule A – Background/Declaration (eIMM 5669)
  • National Identification Cards
  • Birth Certificate
• Sponsor Documents:
  • Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement & Undertaking (IMM 1344)
  • Permanent Resident Card, Canadian Citizenship Card, or Canadian Passport
  • Proof of Financial Stability
  • Birth Certificate (if sponsoring parents/grandparents)
• Relationship Proof:
  • Marriage Certificate (spouse visa)
  • Birth Certificate of Sponsor’s Parent (grandparent visa)
  • Other documents demonstrating genuine connection (photos, communication records)
• Additional Requirements:
  • Police Certificate (may be requested)

Remember, this is a general list. Specific requirements may vary depending on your situation.  For the latest updates, always refer to the official Canadian government immigration website.

A Guide to Applying for a Canadian Dependent Visa 

Ready to reunite with family in Canada? The Dependent visa streamlines the process for Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor spouses, children, parents, and even grandparents. Here’s a breakdown of the application process:

• Gather Information: Start by obtaining the visa application package, which includes application forms and detailed instructions.
• Complete Applications: Both the sponsor and the dependent applying for the visa will need to complete separate application forms.
• Pay the Fees: Application fees can be conveniently paid using various credit and debit cards.
• Submit Application: Once complete, submit the application form following the official instructions.
• Gather Supporting Documents: During processing, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may request additional documents like medical examinations, police certificates, and biometric information.
• Track Your Application: For peace of mind, you can track the application’s status online using the provided reference number.

Remember, this is a simplified overview. It’s crucial to stay updated on the latest requirements and processing times by visiting the official IRCC website.

What is the Cost of a Canada Dependant Visa?

The cost of applying for a Canada dependant visa depends on the type of visa the applicant is applying for. Here’s a breakdown of the application fees:

The table shows that sponsoring a spouse or partner is the most expensive dependant visa application at 1080 CAD.  This fee covers the processing fee, sponsorship fee, and right of permanent residence fee.

It’s important to note that these are just the application fees. There are additional costs associated with applying for a Canada dependant visa, such as the biometrics fee.  Also, the dependant may need to pay for a medical examination and police certificates.

Processing Time for Canada Dependent Visa Applications 

Wait times for Canada Dependent visas can vary depending on the dependant type. Here’s a quick reference table:

Remember, these are just estimates.  Actual processing times can fluctuate based on application complexity and current IRCC workload. It’s always recommended to check the official IRCC website for the most up-to-date processing times.

Streamline Your Dependent Visa Journey with Prowess Pursuit

Navigating the Canadian immigration process can be complex, especially when reuniting with family. Prowess Pursuit, a Canadian immigration consultant in India with its extensive experience, offers a helping hand for your Dependent Visa application. Our team of experts can guide you through every step:

• Complete Documentation: We’ll ensure your application package is thorough and meets all requirements.
• Application Support: Benefit from assistance throughout the processing stage for added peace of mind.
• Expert Guidance: Our team will help you with forms, documentation, and proper filing procedures.
• Stay Informed: Receive regular updates on your application’s status and any required follow-up actions.
• Beyond Arrival: Prowess Pursuit can even provide relocation and post-landing support in Canada for a smooth transition.

FAQs on Dependent Visa in Canada:

Who is eligible for a dependent visa in Canada?

Canadian citizens or permanent residents can sponsor spouses, children (under 22 and financially dependent), parents, grandparents, and in some cases, even siblings and nephews/nieces.

How long does it take to get a dependent visa for Canada?

Processing times vary, but generally take 6-12 months.

Who are eligible for a dependent visa?

See “Who is eligible for a dependent visa in Canada?” above.

How much money is required for dependent visa Canada?

There are no set financial requirements for the applicant, but the sponsor must meet minimum income levels to show they can support their dependent.

Can a dependent get PR in Canada?

Yes, upon successful application, the dependent receives permanent resident status in Canada.

Can I sponsor my wife to Canada?

Yes, a Canadian citizen or permanent resident can sponsor their spouse for a dependent visa.

Can my wife work on a dependent visa in Canada?

Yes, after obtaining a work permit, your wife can work full-time in Canada.

What are the new rules for Canada spouse visa?

It’s best to check the IRCC website for the latest updates, as rules can change.

Is it easy to get a spouse visa in Canada?

The process can be complex, but with careful preparation and meeting all requirements, it’s achievable.

Can I sponsor my 25-year-old son to Canada?

Generally, only dependent children under 22 are eligible. However, exceptions may apply in cases of financial dependence due to disability.

What is the minimum income to sponsor a spouse in Canada?

The minimum income needed varies depending on family size. Check IRCC’s website for the latest income requirements.

How many hours can a spouse work in Canada?

With a work permit, your spouse can work full-time (30+ hours/week).

Do we need IELTS for Canada dependent visa?

No, IELTS is not required for the dependent visa itself. However, it may be needed for the sponsored person to work or study in Canada.