Due to the numerous requests we’ve received, we’ve opted to provide you with some information regarding the conditions and procedure of sponsorship for the Caribbean. The process of applying for a partner visa in Canada involves specific requirements and following specific steps.
In SEP Immigration we are not only deeply involved with every single aspect of this process but also completely up-to-date with the latest policies and regulations. Below is a general overview of what the partner visa application process might entail:
Table of Contents
- 1- Check Eligibility:
- 2- Select the Right Sponsorship Program:
- 3- Sponsorship Application:
- 4- Gather Supporting Documents:
- 5- Sponsored Person’s Application:
- 6- Medical and Criminal Checks:
- 7- Submit Application:
- 8- Wait for Processing:
- 9- Additional Information Requests:
- 10- Decision:
- 11- Arrival in Canada:
1- Check Eligibility:
Before beginning the application process, ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria set by the Canadian immigration authorities.
To be a sponsor, you must meet certain criteria, including:
- you must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- You must be at least 18 years old.
- You must reside in Canada or plan to.
- You must meet financial requirements and agree to financially support the sponsored person.
- You must be a spouse, common-law partner, parent, dependent child, or other eligible relative to the sponsored person.
2- Select the Right Sponsorship Program:
Canada offers different sponsorship programs, such as spousal sponsorship, common-law partner sponsorship, and parent or grandparent sponsorship. Choose the program that best fits your relationship and situation.
Here are a list of Canada’s sponsorship programs:
- Spouse or common-law partner sponsorship: If your partner is a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, this program suits you.
- Parent of grandparent sponsorship: If your child or grandchild is a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, this program may be best.
- Dependent child sponsorship: If one of your parents is a citizen or permanent resident of Canada, they can sponsor you through this program.
- Other relative sponsorship: If you do not fall into any of the above categories, you may still be able to get a sponsorship from your other relatives.
3- Sponsorship Application:
In a sponsorship application, the sponsor is primarily responsible for submitting the forms. Complete and submit the appropriate sponsorship application form provided by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This form is typically part of the overall application package.
4- Gather Supporting Documents:
Collect all required supporting documents to demonstrate the authenticity of your relationship and your ability to support your sponsored family member.
You may need to provide the following documents or more:
- Proof sponsor’s eligibility showing that the sponsor is a citizen or permanent resident of Canada
- Financial documents of the sponsor including tax returns, letter of employment, etc.
- Proof of relationship which depends on the type of sponsorship program you are applying for. It can include birth certificates, marriage certificates, proof of cohabitation, photos and other evidence of the relationship.
- Identity documents such as passport, birth certificate or national ID card.
- Police clearance certificates of the sponsored person from all the countries they have lived in.
- Medical examination results
- Photographs
- In specific cases, additional documents may be needed, such as: divorce or annulment certificates, adoption papers, legal name change documents, etc.
5- Sponsored Person’s Application:
The sponsor person is mainly responsible for application. However, your sponsored family member (spouse, partner, parent, etc.) will also need to apply for a visa or permit to come to Canada. They will need to submit their own application and provide the necessary documents.
The sponsored person may need to fill forms about their identity, travels history, financial status, etc. All the forms are digital.
Both the sponsor and the sponsored person should collaborate closely to make sure they have filled out all the forms correctly before submitting the application.
6- Medical and Criminal Checks:
Both you (the sponsor) and the sponsored family member will likely need to undergo medical examinations and provide police clearance certificates to ensure you meet the health and character requirements.
The medical check includes a thorough check-up including measuring your weight and height, checking your pulse, vision, hearing, blood pressure, etc.
You need to bring some documents with you for the medical check session. Make sure to check the requirements and collect all necessary documents before the appointment.
7- Submit Application:
Submit your sponsorship application and the sponsored person’s application along with all required documents to the appropriate processing center. Pay the necessary fees as specified by IRCC.
You can submit the application either at a visa office outside of Canada or at a local immigration office in Canada.
8- Wait for Processing:
The processing time can vary depending on the program. It can last from several months to more than a year, depending on the complexity of the case and the workload at IRCC. In SEP immigration we’ll minimize this time through to-the-point follow-ups and specific communications and strategies.
9- Additional Information Requests:
During the processing, IRCC might request additional information or clarification, including updated documents, further proof of relationship, etc. Ensure you respond promptly and accurately and accurately.
Keep a copy of all your documents, check your email and the portal frequently and make sure to respond to any request for additional documents of information within the time frame.
Inform IRCC on any changes of your status, including your address or contact number immediately.
10- Decision:
After the decision is made, you will get notified through email or the online portal of IRCC. If the application is accepted, you will receive instructions on the next steps you need to take. The sponsored person may need to do a medical check or police clearance if already not submitted.
If your case is rejected, you will receive a letter of refusal explanation, clarifying why your case is refused. You may also receive options for appeal or reapplication if eligible.
11- Arrival in Canada:
After obtaining the visa or permit, the sponsored family member can travel to Canada. On arrival, the sponsored person should go to a designated port of entry. At the port they may ask questions about the sponsored person’s plans in Canada, the sponsor, etc.
After you arrive in Canada, you can use the settlement services available for housing, finding a job, and integrating into Canadian society.
It’s crucial to follow the most up-to-date guidelines and requirements provided by SEP Immigration. We Sincerely recommend seeking our advice to ensure that you navigate the process accurately and smoothly. as The procedure for seeking a partner visa within a Caribbean nation can differ based on the particular country under discussion.
