Last updated: April 2026
Family reunification remains a cornerstone of Canadian immigration. However, the 2026 landscape features strict quotas for Parents and Grandparents (PGP) and significant wait times in Quebec. SiLaw Immigration specializes in keeping families together by navigating these complex federal and provincial silos.
Who Can You Sponsor?
- Spouse, Partner, or Dependent Children: These remain the highest priority for IRCC with no application caps.
- Parents and Grandparents: Managed via a lottery system with a low probability of selection; Super Visa is often the recommended alternative.
- Orphaned relatives or the “Lonely Canadian” exception (sponsoring one extended relative if you have no immediate family in Canada).
The Quebec Factor in Sponsorship
Quebec has sole authority over the undertaking process. In 2026, the province maintain a strict cap on the number of family sponsorship applications it processes annually, leading to longer processing times for Quebec residents compared to the rest of Canada. Our team is expert in handling the MIFI undertaking applications.
Sponsorship Obligations
As a sponsor, you sign a legal undertaking to provide for your relative’s basic needs. For a spouse, the duration is 3 years; for parents/grandparents, it is 20 years. You are legally responsible for repaying any social assistance they might receive during this period.
FAQ
1. How much income do I need to sponsor? For a spouse, there is no minimum income requirement (LICO) unless you are also sponsoring dependent children. For parents, strict LICO + 30% rules apply.
2. Can my parents work on a Super Visa? No, but they can stay for up to 5 years at a time.
3. Is my common-law partner eligible? Yes, if you have cohabitated for at least 12 continuous months in a marriage-like relationship.
4. What is the processing time for a spouse? Globally, IRCC aims for 12 months, though complex cases or files in Quebec may take longer.
5. Can I sponsor while living abroad? Canadian citizens can, but they must prove their intent to return to Canada. Permanent Residents must be residing in Canada to sponsor.
6. What if I am on disability? You may still be able to sponsor, but specific legal nuances apply regarding social assistance.
7. Can I sponsor my brother? Generally only if he is a dependent child or falls under the “lone Canadian” exception.
8. What happens if we divorce after sponsorship? The 3-year undertaking remains in effect even if the relationship ends.
