Sponsoring a dependent child over 18 years old for Canadian Permanent Residency (PR) is possible under certain conditions. Canada’s immigration policy allows you to sponsor an adult child if they still meet the requirements of a dependent child according to the definition of the program. Here’s how you can sponsor a dependent child over 18 years old.
1. Understand Who Qualifies as a Dependent Child
In the context of Canadian immigration, a dependent child is typically defined as someone who is:
- Under 22 years old and not married or in a common-law relationship, or
- Over 22 years old but is dependent on the sponsor due to a physical or mental condition that prevents them from being able to support themselves financially.
If your child is over 22 years old and doesn’t meet the above criteria, they may not qualify for sponsorship under the standard family sponsorship program. However, there are exceptions if the child is a student or has a disability.
2. Eligibility for Sponsorship
As the sponsor, you must meet the following requirements:
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be able to demonstrate that you can financially support your dependent child and any other family members you are sponsoring.
- Sign an agreement with the Canadian government stating that you will provide financial support for your dependent child for a period of 3 years after they become a permanent resident.
3. Proof of Dependence
If your child is over 18, you must prove that they continue to be dependent on you due to a physical or mental condition. This might include:
- Medical reports confirming the child’s inability to financially support themselves due to a disability.
- Evidence that the child has been unable to find stable employment or support themselves financially for a sustained period.
4. Gather Required Documents
To apply for sponsorship, you will need to provide a variety of documents, including:
- Proof of Relationship: Birth certificate or other official documents showing that the child is your biological or legally adopted child.
- Proof of Financial Ability: Evidence of your financial ability to support the child, such as tax returns, employment records, and bank statements.
- Medical and Police Certificates: The child will be required to undergo medical exams and submit police certificates from any country they have lived in for more than 6 months since the age of 18.
5. Submit the Application
You can submit your sponsorship application either online or by paper. Be sure to include all necessary documents and information to avoid delays in the processing time. The required forms are available on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
The processing time for this type of application typically takes 12 to 24 months, depending on factors such as the country of residence and the complexity of the case.
6. Wait for the Decision
Once the application is submitted, your child’s application will be reviewed by Canadian immigration authorities. During the review, they may ask for additional information or documents. The approval will depend on:
- The financial ability of the sponsor.
- Proof that the child is still dependent.
- The completeness of the application.
7. After Approval
If the sponsorship application is approved, your child will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and can begin their journey to becoming a permanent resident of Canada. After approval, they can live, work, and study in Canada as a permanent resident. They will also be eligible to apply for Canadian citizenship after meeting the residency requirements.
8. Special Considerations for Dependent Children Over 22
- Disability: If your child is over 22 and has a disability that prevents them from financially supporting themselves, they may still be considered a dependent for immigration purposes. This would require submitting medical documentation proving the disability.
- Full-Time Students: If your child is a full-time student and is still financially dependent on you, they may qualify as a dependent, even if they are over 22. Proof of full-time enrollment and financial dependence is essential in this case.