How Much Does It Cost to Sponsor a Family Member in Canada?

Introduction: The High Stakes of Family Sponsorship

Imagine you’ve just received the wonderful news that a close family member wants to join you in Canada. The excitement is palpable, but then reality sets in: the cost. Sponsoring a family member to live in Canada involves various financial commitments and legal obligations. But how much exactly does it cost? This comprehensive guide will delve into the details, breaking down the costs, processes, and what you need to consider before beginning your sponsorship journey.

The Core Costs of Sponsorship

1. Application Fees

One of the most straightforward costs in the sponsorship process is the application fee. As of the latest update:

• Spouse or Common-Law Partner: CAD 1,365
• Dependent Child: CAD 1,365
• Other Family Members: The fees can vary based on the specific circumstances and number of people involved.

These fees cover the processing of the sponsorship application and are non-refundable, even if your application is refused.

2. Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)

In addition to application fees, there’s a Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF) that must be paid:

• Adult Applicants: CAD 500
• Dependent Children: No RPRF is required for dependent children.

This fee is payable once the sponsorship application is approved and before the immigrant is granted permanent residency.

3. Medical and Police Clearance Costs

Medical Exams: All applicants must undergo a medical exam conducted by an approved panel physician. The cost of the exam varies by location and specific medical needs but generally ranges from CAD 100 to CAD 300 per person.

Police Clearance Certificates: These are required to prove that the applicant has no criminal record. The cost varies by country and can range from CAD 50 to CAD 150 per certificate.

4. Additional Costs

Document Translation: If any documents are not in English or French, they must be translated. Translation costs can range from CAD 50 to CAD 150 per document.

Legal Fees: Some applicants choose to hire immigration consultants or lawyers to assist with the process. Legal fees can range from CAD 1,000 to CAD 5,000, depending on the complexity of the case and the professional’s fees.

5. Financial Undertaking

As a sponsor, you are required to sign an undertaking to support the sponsored person financially. This means you must prove that you can support them without relying on social assistance. The financial requirements are determined based on the size of your family and the location in Canada where you live. Generally, you must demonstrate that you have sufficient income to support both yourself and the sponsored person.

The Financial Undertaking Commitment

1. Duration of the Undertaking

The duration for which you are financially responsible varies by the type of relative you are sponsoring:

• Spouse or Common-Law Partner: 3 years
• Dependent Children: 10 years or until they turn 22, whichever comes first
• Parents or Grandparents: 20 years

2. Minimum Income Requirements

Sponsors must meet a minimum income threshold, which is assessed based on the Low Income Measure (LIM) for their family size. The exact amount varies annually and is influenced by the cost of living in different regions of Canada.

Breaking Down the Financial Responsibility

To give you a clearer picture, let’s look at an example. Suppose you’re sponsoring your spouse and a child:

• Application Fees: CAD 1,365 (spouse) + CAD 1,365 (child) = CAD 2,730
• RPRF: CAD 500 (spouse) = CAD 500
• Medical Exams: CAD 200 (spouse) + CAD 200 (child) = CAD 400
• Police Clearance: CAD 100 (spouse) + CAD 100 (child) = CAD 200
• Translation and Legal Fees: Varies (approx. CAD 500 to CAD 2,000)

Total Estimated Cost: Approximately CAD 3,830 to CAD 6,830, excluding any additional costs such as legal fees.

The Application Process: Step-by-Step

1. Prepare Your Application

Gather all required documents, including proof of relationship, financial documents, medical exams, and police clearances. Ensure that all documents are complete and accurate to avoid delays.

2. Submit the Application

Submit your application package to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Pay the application and RPRF fees as required.

3. Await Processing

Processing times can vary based on the type of application, the country of origin, and the completeness of your application. Regularly check for updates on the status of your application.

4. Finalize the Process

Once approved, ensure that all remaining fees (if any) are paid, and complete any additional requirements before the sponsored person can officially become a permanent resident.

Tips to Manage the Costs

1. Budget Wisely: Plan your budget to accommodate all expected costs, including unforeseen expenses.
2. Seek Professional Help: If the process seems overwhelming, consider consulting an immigration expert.
3. Check for Updates: Immigration policies and fees can change, so stay informed about the latest information.

Conclusion: Navigating the Costs with Confidence

Sponsoring a family member to come to Canada is a significant financial commitment. By understanding the costs involved and planning accordingly, you can navigate the sponsorship process with confidence. Whether you are sponsoring a spouse, child, or other family member, being well-prepared will ensure a smoother journey towards reuniting with your loved ones in Canada.