Can You Bring Your Family to Canada on a Visitor’s Visa?

Traveling to Canada with your family should be smooth, but it's important to understand the process and the specific visa requirements. Whether you are traveling with a single adult or a group, you need to make sure all members have the proper documents and meet the necessary criteria.

Requirements for Traveling on a Visitor’s Visa with Family

For a group traveling with an adult over 18, having a letter granting permission for each minor and showing financial support for each individual can help secure entry with a visitor’s visa. Typically, the group must prove they have enough funds to support the stay in Canada and provide a valid reason for the trip.

Here's a detailed breakdown of the requirements:

Proof of Funds and Support

Bank statements or proof of financial resources. Travel itineraries and hotel reservations. Proof of employment or source of income.

Valid Reason for Travel

Family vacation. Brief business trip with clear itinerary. Medical consultation.

Individual Visa Applications for Family Members

Most people choose to apply for individual passports with visitor visas. Each family member needs to submit their own application and all required documentation.

Cannot Sponsor Parents with a Visitor’s Visa

Visitors cannot sponsor their parents for permanent residency. If you wish to sponsor your parents, you should apply for permanent residence through the appropriate process. Parents can apply for permanent residence if they have lived in Canada for at least 1095 days (three years) out of the last 1825 days (five years) as permanent residents.

Path to Canadian Citizenship

Once your parents have obtained permanent residency, they can apply for Canadian citizenship if they meet the following requirements:

Permanent Residence: Be a permanent resident of Canada. Duration of Residency: Have lived in Canada for 3 out of the last 5 years. Tax Compliance: If required, have filed Canadian taxes. Citizenship Test: Pass a test on rights, responsibilities, and knowledge of Canada. Language Skills: Prove your language skills (e.g., English or French).

Completing this process can take from a few months to several years, depending on various factors such as the applicant's age and educational background. The overall cost can vary but typically ranges from CAD 2000 to CAD 3000 per person.

Family Sponsorship for Canadian Permanent Residency

Family members can sponsor each other for permanent residency if they meet specific requirements. Here's a step-by-step guide:

Sponsorship Process for Parents

Meet the Sponsorship Criteria: The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Submit Sponsorship Application: Complete all necessary forms and gather required documentation. Provide Financial Support: Demonstrate the ability to support the dependent parent financially. Pass Medical Examination: The dependent parent must be medically cleared. Wait for Approval: The process can take several months to approve.

After approval, your parents can live in Canada permanently and eventually apply for Canadian citizenship after meeting the residency and other requirements.

Important Notes on Immigration While on a Visitor’s Visa

It is absolutely not possible to apply for immigrant visas while in Canada as a visitor. A visitor’s visa is strictly time-limited and you cannot process any immigrant visa before you have to leave the country. It's crucial to plan accordingly and ensure you understand the rules and potential consequences.

For those already in Canada as a visitor, the options for immigration include starting the process at any time from anywhere. Here’s how to proceed:

Starting Your Immigration Process

Evaluate Your Options: Determine whether you are eligible for permanent residency, refugee status, or other immigration categories. Seek Legal Advice: Consult with a legal expert or a regulated immigration consultant to understand the best course of action. Prepare Documentation: Gather all necessary documents and follow the application process for the appropriate immigration category. Follow Compliance Rules: Adhere to all regulations and avoid undocumented work or overstaying your permitted period.

Conclusion

Bringing your family to Canada on a visitor’s visa is both a possibility and a responsibility. Ensure all members meet the necessary criteria, apply for individual visas, and understand the long-term implications of your stay and the steps required for permanent residency. Planning ahead and seeking professional guidance can help you navigate the complex Canadian immigration landscape smoothly and successfully.