Sponsoring a Dependent Child to Canada
A citizen or permanent resident can sponsor a dependent child to become a permanent resident. The child can be biological or adopted.
Who counts as a dependent child
Under IRCC's current definition, a child is generally dependent if they are under 22 and not married or in a common-law relationship. There is an exception for older children who cannot support themselves because of a physical or mental condition. The child's age is fixed on the date IRCC receives your application, and the child must still be unmarried and not in a common-law relationship when permanent residence is confirmed. For a dependent child under 22, your undertaking lasts 10 years or until the child turns 25, whichever comes first. The rules depend on the date of your application, so check the definition that applies.
What you will need
- Proof of the parent-child relationship, such as a birth certificate
- Identity and civil status documents
- Custody or consent documents where relevant
- Police certificates and medical exams as required
- Forms signed by the sponsor, and by the child if old enough
Declare all your children
When you or your spouse applied for permanent residence, you were required to declare every child, even those not coming to Canada. A child who was not declared or examined may be barred from later sponsorship. IRCC's temporary exemption for some such cases ended on September 10, 2026, though eligible applications received by that date continue to be processed under it, and a humanitarian and compassionate request may still be possible for others. Get advice before you apply if this may affect you.
Get help from a licensed consultant
I can check the child's eligibility, review your documents, and advise on declaration issues before you apply. No one can guarantee an approval.
Frequently asked questions
Can I sponsor a child who is over 22? Only in narrow circumstances, such as dependence caused by a physical or mental condition.
Does the child need to be living with me? No, but you must show the relationship and meet the other rules.
What if my child was born after I applied? Get advice. The rules for children born after your application are specific.
Sources: IRCC, Sponsor your spouse, partner or dependent child; IRCC policy on excluded family members.
This page is general information, not legal advice on your situation.