Some immigration programs, like the Start-up visa and Caregiver program, will let you bring your family to Canada. However, immigrants are usually allowed to sponsor their family members3 only after becoming permanent residents.  The processing time for family sponsorships ranges from as early as ten months to up to 24 months. You can sponsor your family members under the Family Class only if you meet the following criteria: At least 18 years old A Permanent Resident of Canada Be able to support your family members once they arrive in Canada You can meet your and your relative’s basic needs like food, shelter, and clothing Your relative does not need social assistance These are the family members that you can sponsor: Spouse Common-law partner Conjugal partner Children Parent Grandparent Orphaned sibling Orphaned niece or nephew Orphaned grandchild You can sponsor any relative of any age if you don’t have any other relatives included in the list that you could sponsor. It must also be noted that you can only sponsor your orphaned brother, sister, niece, or nephew if they satisfy the following conditions: Single (not married or in a conjugal or common-law relationship) Under 18 years old Both parents passed away Related to you by blood or adoption These are some of the documents and certificates that you have to submit when applying for family sponsorships: Photocopy of your Permanent Resident Card Photocopy of your Marriage Certificate Photocopy of your Birth Certificate Application Fee Receipt Proof of Income A statement from your relatives that they’ll try to support themselves The agreement made in writing that you’ll support your relatives for a set amount of time ranging from 3 to 20 years Additional documents might be requested depending on your case. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to apply for family sponsorships: 1. Get the family sponsorships application package and complete the forms. Make sure to include all the required documents. 2. Pay the application, biometrics, and right of permanent residence fees using your debit or credit card. 3. Submit your application form to the address included in the guide. You can find the guide in the application package.