Family sponsorship
Dependent child sponsorship
Sponsor your dependent child, including adopted children, for permanent residence.
Overview
Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their dependent children for permanent residence. Children can also be included as dependants on a parent's own PR application. Whether a child qualifies as "dependent" is decided on the day the application is received.
Key requirements at a glance
- A dependent child is under 22 and not a spouse or common-law partner
- A child 22 or older may qualify if they have depended on their parents since before age 22 and can't support themselves because of a physical or mental condition
- The same sponsor eligibility rules apply as for spousal sponsorship
- Custody documents and consent from the other parent may be needed
How we can help
- Confirm the child meets the dependent child definition
- Gather custody, consent and relationship documents
- Prepare the sponsorship and PR applications
Official information
This overview is general information, not legal advice. Requirements change, and your situation may raise issues not covered here.
Not sure where you fit?
Start with a one-hour consultation with a licensed RCIC and leave with a clear, written plan.