Dependent Child Sponsorship
Canadian citizens or permanent residents sponsoring their dependent children for PR.
The Dependent Child Sponsorship is a Canadian family & partner visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CA$165 (CA$85 sponsorship + CA$80 processing; no RPRF for children)) and processing time (~12 months), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Dependent Child Sponsorship is for
Canadian citizens or permanent residents sponsoring their dependent children for PR.
Grants permanent residence directly to the dependent child.
Dependent Child Sponsorship - eligibility criteria
- Sponsor is a citizen or permanent resident aged 18+
- Child is under 22 and not a spouse/common-law partner
- Older children may qualify if dependent due to a condition
- Sponsor signs an undertaking of support
- Both parties are admissible
Dependent Child Sponsorship cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Dependent Child Sponsorship (Canada) is ~CA$165 (CA$85 sponsorship + CA$80 processing; no RPRF for children), with an indicative processing time of ~12 months. Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IRCC (canada.ca).
| Type | Permanent residence |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online (family class) |
| Length of stay | Permanent |
| Work rights | Work rights once of age and PR is granted |
| Study rights | Full study rights as a permanent resident |
| Government fee | ~CA$165 (CA$85 sponsorship + CA$80 processing; no RPRF for children) |
| Processing time | ~12 months |
| Route to PR | Grants permanent residence directly to the dependent child. |
Pathway & next steps
Grants permanent residence directly to the dependent child.
Many applicants also compare Spousal Sponsorship · Spouse or Common-Law Partner Sponsorship, PGP · Parents and Grandparents Program. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Canadian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Dependent Child Sponsorship pitfalls we fix
Dependent Child Sponsorship - frequently asked questions
How much does the Dependent Child Sponsorship cost?
The Dependent Child Sponsorship government fee is ~CA$165 (CA$85 sponsorship + CA$80 processing; no RPRF for children). Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IRCC (canada.ca) before applying.
How long does the Dependent Child Sponsorship take to process?
Indicative processing time is ~12 months. Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Dependent Child Sponsorship lead to permanent residence?
Grants permanent residence directly to the dependent child.
Can I work on the Dependent Child Sponsorship?
Work rights: Work rights once of age and PR is granted.
Who can apply for the Dependent Child Sponsorship?
Canadian citizens or permanent residents sponsoring their dependent children for PR.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Canada government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IRCC (canada.ca) - official Canada immigration authority