Sponsoring your spouse for Canadian immigration is a significant and life-changing decision. For Nigerian citizens looking to bring their spouse to Canada, understanding the process and requirements is essential to ensure a smooth and successful application. This blog post guides you through the steps involved in sponsoring your spouse for Canadian immigration, providing you with the necessary information to navigate the process effectively.
Understanding Spousal Sponsorship
Spousal sponsorship is a key component of Canada’s Family Class immigration program, which allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, or conjugal partner to become a permanent resident of Canada. The program aims to reunite families and allow them to live together in Canada.
As a sponsor, it is crucial to meet specific eligibility criteria, and the sponsored spouse must also satisfy certain requirements to be approved for permanent residency.
Eligibility Requirements for Sponsorship
Before initiating the sponsorship process, it’s crucial to ensure that both the sponsor and the spouse meet the eligibility criteria set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Here’s what needs to be known:
Sponsor Eligibility
- Residency Status: The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada.
- Age Requirement: The sponsor must be at least 18 years old.
- Legal Standing: The sponsor must not be in prison, bankrupt, under a removal order (if a permanent resident), or charged with a serious offense.
- Sponsorship History: The sponsor must not have been sponsored as a spouse themselves within the last five years.
- Financial Obligations: The sponsor must not have defaulted on a previous sponsorship undertaking or failed to provide financial support for a previously sponsored relative.
Sponsored Spouse Eligibility
- Marital Status: The spouse must be legally married to the sponsor, and the marriage must be legally recognized in both Canada and Nigeria.
- Age Requirement: The spouse must be at least 18 years old.
- Medical and Security Checks: The spouse must pass medical, criminal, and background checks as part of the immigration process.
Types of Spousal Sponsorship Applications
There are two primary types of spousal sponsorship applications:
Outland Sponsorship
Outland sponsorship is typically used when the spouse lives outside of Canada, such as in Nigeria. The application is processed through the visa office responsible for handling applications from the spouse’s country of residence. This option allows the spouse to travel to and from Canada while the application is being processed, although entry into Canada is not guaranteed.
Inland Sponsorship
Inland sponsorship applies when the spouse is already living in Canada on a temporary visa. The application is processed within Canada, and the spouse may be eligible for an open work permit while the application is processed. Inland sponsorship is recommended if the spouse intends to stay in Canada throughout the application process.
Step-by-Step Guide to Sponsoring Your Spouse
1. Gather Required Documents
The first step in the sponsorship process involves gathering all necessary documents to prove the relationship and support the application. Commonly required documents include:
- Nigerian Passport: A valid Nigerian passport for the spouse.
- Marriage Certificate: Issued by a Nigerian authority and translated into English or French if necessary.
- Photographic Evidence: Photographs of the wedding, shared travels, and family gatherings to demonstrate the genuineness of the relationship.
- Communication Records: Proof of communication between the sponsor and spouse, such as phone records, emails, or social media messages.
- Financial Documents: Evidence of the sponsor’s ability to support the spouse, including tax returns, employment letters, and bank statements.
Accurate and complete documentation is essential, as missing or incorrect documents can delay the processing of the application.
2. Complete the Application Forms
The spousal sponsorship application involves completing multiple forms, including:
- IMM 1344: Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement, and Undertaking.
- IMM 5533: Document Checklist for Spouse.
- IMM 5285: Schedule A – Background/Declaration.
Each form must be filled out accurately and honestly. Double-check all information before submission to avoid errors that could delay the application.
3. Pay the Application Fees
The application fee for spousal sponsorship is CAD $1,050, which includes the processing fee and the right of permanent residence fee. If biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) are required for the spouse, an additional fee of CAD $85 will apply.
Payment can be made online through the IRCC portal. Keep the payment receipt, as it must be included in the application package.
4. Submit Your Application
Once all forms are completed and documents gathered, the application package must be submitted to IRCC. The application can be submitted online or by mail, depending on specific requirements and location.
- Signatures: Ensure all forms are signed and dated correctly.
- Document Checklist: Include all required documents and the payment receipt, using the document checklist (IMM 5533) to ensure nothing is missing.
5. Biometrics and Medical Examination
After submitting the application, the spouse will receive a request for biometrics if required. Biometrics must be provided at a designated Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Nigeria.
The spouse may also be required to undergo a medical examination by an IRCC-approved panel physician. The results of this exam will be sent directly to IRCC.
6. Wait for Processing
The processing time for spousal sponsorship applications varies, typically ranging from 12 to 24 months. During this period, IRCC may request additional information or an interview to verify the genuineness of the relationship.
- Online Tracking: Use the IRCC online account to track the status of the application.
- Prompt Responses: Respond promptly to any requests for additional information or documents.
7. Prepare for Your Spouse’s Arrival in Canada
Once the application is approved, the spouse will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) and, if applicable, a permanent resident visa in their passport. With these documents, the spouse can travel to Canada and complete the immigration process.
- Travel Arrangements: Make travel arrangements for the spouse.
- Accommodation: Prepare for their arrival by arranging accommodation and other necessities.
Post-Arrival Steps
Upon arrival in Canada, the spouse will be issued a permanent resident card, typically within a few weeks. The spouse should also register with the local health authority for healthcare coverage and apply for a Social Insurance Number (SIN) to work in Canada.
Tips for a Successful Application
- Provide Clear and Convincing Evidence: The key to a successful spousal sponsorship application is proving the genuineness of the relationship. Detailed evidence, including photos, communication records, and financial support documents, should be provided.
- Be Honest and Transparent: Misrepresentation or false information can result in the application being denied and future sponsorships being jeopardized.
- Stay Organized: Keep all documents and correspondence related to the application well-organized. This will make it easier to respond to IRCC’s requests and track the application status.
Conclusion
Sponsoring a spouse for Canadian immigration as a Nigerian involves careful planning, thorough documentation, and patience. Following the outlined steps can improve the chances of success and help reunite families in Canada. To begin the process, visit the IRCC website to access the necessary forms and start the journey.