4. Complete the application forms
Question & Answer
How do I sponsor my child or my spouse or partner’s child?To complete your sponsorship application:
- make sure that all of the required forms are completed, and
- include all of the documents that are on the checklist in your application package.
Follow the instructions about how to complete the forms. These instructions are in the basic guide and the checklist that comes with your package. There’s also a complete guide with more detailed instructions.
If the child being sponsored is under the age of 18, their parent or legal guardian signs forms on their behalf.
If there’s a parent who’s not coming with the child
You’ll need to show that you have custody of the child or have the consent of the other parent if the child you’re sponsoring:
- is under the age of 18, and
- has a parent who’s not coming to Canada with the child.
The other parent has to complete a Declaration From Non-Accompanying Parent/Guardian For Minors Immigrating to Canada. And it has to be signed in front of a . The other parent also must have a copy of a signed identity document to prove who they are.
If you cannot provide the declaration, you need to explain why. But you must do everything you can to get it. Without the declaration to prove the other parent’s consent, you might not be able to sponsor the child.
Fill out the forms carefully
If the forms are not completed with all the required information, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will send the application back. They will not begin to process the application until it’s complete.
If something does not apply, write “N/A” or “not applicable”. If you’re not sure about something, say so. If you need more space to explain something, use another sheet of paper and attach it with your application.
IRCC checks any other information they have about you and the child that you’re sponsoring. For example, they’ll look at any applications you made in the past. If there are differences in the information, IRCC may do an investigation. And there’s a risk that you could:
- lose your status in Canada, and
- be forced to leave.
If there’s any risk that this could happen to you, get legal help.
Use a computer if you can
It’s best to use a computer to fill out the forms. Some of the forms have a “validate” button. Clicking on the “validate” button identifies certain errors, for example, if you’ve left blank spaces. This gives you a chance to correct the problem.
If the form is complete, clicking on the “validate” button gives you a barcode page for the form. You need to print the barcode page and the form because the form must be signed before you send it in. Include the barcode page with your application.
If the forms are not completed using a computer or not validated, you need to explain why. Explain this in writing and include the note with your application.
