Understanding the Requirements: Bringing Your Family to Canada

As a Canadian resident with a 3.5-year-old Canadian son, you have the right to bring your family to Canada. However, your non-Canadian wife faces additional steps since she is not a citizen.

Child's Eligibility for Canada

Your son has no problem entering and living in Canada. He holds Canadian citizenship by virtue of his birth and can therefore apply for a Canadian passport, which is a prerequisite for international travel and proof of citizenship. If you have not yet done so, it is important to apply for a passport for your son. This will ensure smooth travel and entry into Canada.

Your Non-Canadian Spouse: Sponsorship Process

Your wife, who is not a Canadian citizen, may require a sponsorship process to enter and reside in Canada. The easiest and faster way to bring her to Canada involves several steps. Here’s a detailed guide to assist you in this process.

Option 1: Spousal Sponsorship through the Family Class

If you are married, you can apply for a permanent residence (PR) for your wife through the Spousal Sponsorship category within the Family Class. Spousal sponsorship is a common and effective method to bring your spouse to Canada. Here are the key steps involved:

Submit your application: Begin by gathering all necessary documents and submitting your application to CIC (now IRCC – Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). Provide proof of relationship: Ensure you have strong evidence of your marriage, such as marriage certificates, photo IDs, and joint financial documents. Meet the language requirements: Your wife must meet the language requirements for officially-designated languages (English or French). Pass the medical examination: Both you and your wife must fulfill the necessary health requirements as part of the medical examination process. Financial proof: Provide evidence that you can support your wife financially, ensuring she is not likely to become a burden on the Canadian welfare system. Processing time: The application process can take anywhere between 6 to 8 months for processing and decision-making. This is a relatively quick process compared to other methods.

Alternative Option: Tourist Visa for Temporary Stay

If immediate entry into Canada is necessary but you cannot meet the long-term sponsorship requirements, you can apply for a tourist visa (visitor record). This visa allows your wife to visit Canada for up to 6 months at a time. Here’s how to proceed:

Complete the application form: Fill out the application form for a visitor record (VWP) with the necessary personal and travel details. Provide supporting documents: Include a letter of invitation, proof of accommodation, financial statements, and evidence of a strong tie to your home country. Adherence to visa conditions: Your wife must ensure she follows the terms of her tourist visa and stays within the allowed duration. Renewal possibilities: If she needs to stay longer, she can reapply for another tourist visa before her current one expires.

Sponsorship: Who You Can Sponsor

Under Canadian immigration law, you are legally allowed to sponsor certain family members to come to Canada. These sponsored individuals can be your spouse, common-law partner, or dependent children. The types of sponsored individuals include:

Spouse or common-law partner: You can sponsor your non-Canadian spouse or common-law partner to come to Canada for a permanent residence. Children under 22: If you have dependent children under the age of 22, you can sponsor them as well. Parents and grandparents: In certain cases, you may also sponsor your parents and grandparents as conditional permanent residents.

Conclusion

By following the steps for a Spousal Sponsorship or obtaining a tourist visa, you can bring your wife and child to Canada. The process can be time-consuming, so it’s essential to be prepared and have all necessary documents in order. With the right assistance and support, you can make the journey of bringing your family to Canada a successful one.