Eligible Canadian citizens and permanent residents may sponsor a dependent child for permanent residence. The child must meet IRCC’s definition of a dependant and must not be inadmissible to Canada.
At a glance
- Biological and adopted children
- Age and dependency rules
- Custody, consent and family-law documentation where relevant
- Medical, identity and admissibility requirements
Who qualifies as a dependent child
Dependency is assessed under IRCC’s current age and dependency rules. In some circumstances, an older child may qualify where the applicable statutory requirements for financial dependency and a physical or mental condition are met.
Parental responsibility and consent
Where parents are separated, divorced or do not travel together, custody arrangements, consent and the child’s best interests can become important documentary issues.
Adoption
International adoption and sponsorship involve additional provincial, territorial and immigration requirements and should be assessed as a distinct process.
Application evidence
Birth records, identity documents, relationship evidence, custody documents and medical or other supporting records should be prepared consistently with the family’s immigration history.
Official government resources
Use these official sources for the current program rules, forms and government instructions.
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