Are you interested in sponsoring your parents and/or grandparents to become permanent residents of Canada? This is what you need to know about the program.

Sponsoring your parents or grandparents to become permanent residents of Canada can take time. It is important to have patience and to fill out all applications correctly. This article aims to guide you through the process, so you can develop accurate expectations.

What You Should Know About Sponsoring

Firstly, you must be invited to apply to sponsor these family members. In addition, you have 60 days to submit your application from the day you receive this invitation. 

Secondly, for the parents and grandparents program, there are two applications to submit: the sponsorship application and the permanent residence application. Basically, you are required to apply to be their sponsor and your parents/grandparents will apply for permanent residence. Both of these must be submitted together. 

Thirdly, if the government approves of your applications, then you (the sponsor) and the person you are sponsoring will sign an Agreement and Undertaking. This takes effect when your family member becomes a permanent resident. 

So, how do you start the process?

1. Wait For Your Invitation

It all begins with an invitation. However, this is the luck of the draw. Each year the selection is randomized to ensure that enough invitations are sent out to fulfill their goal for accepting applications.

2. How To Apply Online

Many people make the mistake of using old forms and outdated instructions guides. This happens when sponsors and their parents and grandparents begin filling out the application forms before they are invited to do so. Therefore, to avoid these delays, ensure that you fill out the most up-to-date applications and use a recent instruction guide to help you along the way. 

Review your completed application before you hit the submit button. If they find that your application is incomplete, it will delay the process. Here is a quick rundown of everything that should be in your application:

• All questions must be answered
• Include a processing fee receipt
• Uploaded documents (please keep in mind that this should include your letter of invitation)
• Your electronic signature 

If applying online is not an option for you due to a disability, then review your options here. 

Forms For a Sponsor

As a sponsor, you are required to print, sign, and fill out the following PDF forms: 

• Document Checklist – Sponsor [IMM 5771]
• Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking [IMM 1344]
• Financial Evaluation for Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship [IMM 5768]
• Income Sources for the Sponsorship of Parents and Grandparents [IMM 5748]
• Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union [IMM 5409]

Electronic copies of the signed forms should also go to the person you are sponsoring. This person is known as the principal applicant. The principal application will electronically sign the application and upload these documents with their online application. 

Find the downloadable links for these sponsor forms here. 

Forms for a Principal Applicant

The principal applicant (parents and grandparents who are being sponsored) are also required to fill out the following PDF forms:

• Generic Application Form for Canada [IMM 0008]
• Schedule A – Background/Declaration [IMM 5669]
• Additional Family Information [IMM 5406]
• Supplementary Information – Your Travels [IMM 5562]

Find the downloadable links for these applicant forms here. 

3. How To Pay For Your Application Fees

Your fees are comprised of 3 elements: the biometrics fee, the Right of Permanent Residence Fee, and processing fees. However, you are required to pay all of your fees online. 

Moreover, there may be third-party fees to consider if you require a medical exam and a police certificate. 

4. Send Additional Documents

As your application is processed, the principal applicant might be asked to submit the following documents: 

• Biometrics
• Medical Exams
• Police Certificate 

However, please wait until receiving a letter that requests this information before submitting them. Instructions will be included upon request and they will provide a deadline for the additional documents. 

Conclusion

Sponsoring your parents and grandparents to become permanent residents in Canada can take time. It is important to fill out the applications in their entirety and submit them together before the deadline. Also, make sure to pay all fees online and submit additional documents as they are requested. Lastly, stay up-to-date with your application by linking it to your IRCC secure account.