Tag: Family Class Sponsorship

Emigrating to another country can sometimes be a very lengthy and daunting process. Often families are forced to temporarily leave their loved ones behind and set up home in a new environment with hopes to reunite with their family in the near future.

Consequently, family reunification is perceived to be a benefit to Canada and often a vehicle whereby older members of the family, parents and grandparents, allow their adult children the benefit of being able to participate in the labour market and ensure the continuation of culture to their grandchildren. Deviations from this regime can often disrupt the family dynamic and at Devry Smith Frank LLP, we understand the need for support and the value of fostering diversity.

The Family Class Sponsorship initiative incorporates the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program and it is through this method that, one who is considered to be a permanent resident or citizen of Canada is afforded the opportunity to sponsor their parent(s) and/or grandparent(s) to eventually be in receipt of permanent residency in Canada. – Reuniting the family unit permanently.

Upon realization of your interest in becoming a sponsor and before commencing the process, one must first express interest to the government and then get invited to apply. Once invited to apply, it is imperative to assess one’s eligibility. To be eligible, you must meet the basic following criteria:

You are 18 years of age or older, living in Canada and are a:

– Canadian citizen or

– Person registered in Canada as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act or

– Permanent resident of Canada

Additionally for the purpose of eligibility, there is a financial component requiring a minimum level of income in order to qualify as a sponsor. –  The notion is that you will be able to support that person and their dependents financially, for the period of time stipulated in your sponsorship agreement.

While this list is not exhaustive, sponsorship applications can get complicated and often require guidance from immigration and family lawyers who have wide- ranging experience in litigating affairs in both immigration and family law.

If you are considering sponsoring parents or grandparents, talk to one of our lawyers today in our Toronto office location. Farzana Jiwani and Maya Krishnaratne are both knowledgeable, results driven lawyers – Providing the client with the ability to make well-versed decisions.

For more information on how we can assist, please contact our office online or directly on (416) 449-1400 and schedule a consultation today.

“This article is intended to inform. Its content does not constitute legal advice and should not be relied upon by readers as such. If you require legal assistance, please see a lawyer. Each case is unique and a lawyer with good training and sound judgment can provide you with advice tailored to your specific situation and needs.”