Migration Overseas
Since 1998
Learn how to sponsor your spouse, parents, and dependents across Canada, Australia, UK and other destinations. Complete guide to family immigration.
Most immigration destinations allow PR holders and citizens to sponsor family members. Each country has specific eligibility requirements and processing timelines.
Sponsoring a spouse or common-law partner
Legally married or common-law partnership (typically 1+ year in some countries). Must demonstrate genuine relationship with documents.
Canada: see IRCC's processing times tool | Australia: 12-24 months | UK: 6-12 months
Must prove financial support capability. Income thresholds apply based on spouse's dependents and location.
Sponsoring your biological or adopted children
Children typically under 22 years old and financially dependent. Some countries allow older children if in full-time education.
Canada: see IRCC's processing times tool | Australia: 12-18 months | UK: 6-12 months
Birth certificate, marriage certificate (parents), custody documents if applicable, and proof of dependency.
Sponsoring aging parents and grandparents
Significantly higher income threshold required. In Canada the sponsor needs the minimum necessary income plus 30% for each of the 3 tax years before applying, and signs an undertaking to support the parent or grandparent for 20 years.
Canada: new applications paused since 15 July 2026 (the Super Visa is the route open now) | Australia: Limited program | UK: Very restricted (adult dependent relative route only)
Must pass medical exam. Pre-existing conditions may be examined. Healthcare costs must be considered.
Limited sponsorship for siblings and other relatives
Most countries have limited or no programs for siblings. Available only in specific circumstances or countries.
Consider work permits, student visas, or permanent residency programs based on individual qualifications instead.
Some countries may have family class sponsorship for nephews, nieces, or aunts/uncles under specific conditions.
Confirm you're eligible to sponsor and your family member meets requirements for your country.
Gather all required documentation including proofs of relationship, identity, and medical/police certificates.
File sponsorship application with all documents to immigration authorities. Pay applicable fees.
Immigration conducts background checks, verifies documents, and may request additional information.
Applicant completes medical examination and obtains police certificate from relevant authorities.
Upon approval, visa is issued. Family member can now travel to join you in your new country.
Must show income above Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) threshold. Income must cover family members' basic needs for the undertaking period (in Canada, 3 years for a spouse or partner, 10 years for a dependent child, 20 years for a parent or grandparent).
You sign legal document agreeing to support family member. If they need social assistance, you may be responsible for repayment.
As sponsor, you're responsible for family member's well-being. If they commit crime or require welfare, you could face penalties.
In Canada the sponsorship undertaking lasts 3 years for a spouse or partner, 10 years (or until age 25, whichever comes first) for a dependent child, and 20 years for a parent or grandparent.
Family member cannot apply for government financial assistance during undertaking period. You must provide full support.
Spouse and children: see IRCC's processing times tool (IRCC aims to bring spousal waits outside Quebec closer to 12 months in 2027) | Parents: new applications paused since 15 July 2026 | Financial threshold: higher for parents (20-year support)
Spouse: 12-24 months | Children: 12-18 months | Parents: Limited program | Points-based family sponsorship system
Spouse: 6-12 months | Children: 6-12 months | Parents: Not available (Super Visa alternative) | Income threshold: GBP £29,000 for a partner visa applicant (since 11 April 2024)
Spouse: 12-15 months | Children: 12-15 months | Parents: Very limited | Must demonstrate long-term commitment
Get personalized guidance on sponsoring your family members to your new country.
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