A close-up of a couple holding hands outdoors at sunset, with trees and a walking path in the background.

To sponsor a family member, you must be a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident living in Canada, at least 18 years old, and capable of supporting your relative financially.

  • Age: Must be at least 18 years of age.
  • Status: Canadian Citizen, Permanent Resident, or person registered under the Canadian Indian Act.
  • Financial Obligation: Must prove you are not receiving social assistance for reasons other than a disability and promise to support the sponsored family member financially.
Category Undertaking Key Criteria
Spouse / Partner 3 Years Genuine marriage or 12+ months cohabitation. No income requirement in standard cases.
Dependent Children 10 Years (or age 25) Unmarried children under age 22 (or older if dependent due to disability).
Parents & Grandparents 20 Years Lottery-based intake. Must meet Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for 3 tax years.

To sponsor parents or grandparents, you must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI + 30%) for the last 3 consecutive tax years for your total family unit size.

Total Family Unit Size: 4 Persons
Tax Year Required MNI (+30%)
Tax Year 1 (Most Recent) $68,358 CAD
Tax Year 2 $68,358 CAD
Tax Year 3 $65,689 CAD

*Amounts reflect IRCC LIFO + 30% requirements. Income must be proven via CRA Notice of Assessment (NOA).