Canada Relatives Sponsorship: What Happens After You Apply?

Bringing your loved ones to Canada is a deeply rewarding step, and the Canada sponsorship for relatives program makes it possible. But what happens once youve submitted the application? This detailed guide breaks down each stage after applying, helping you understand the process and prepare for what comes next.

Here are 8 things that happen after applying for Canada sponsorship for relatives:

1. Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR): The First Confirmation

Once Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) receives your application, youll get an Acknowledgement of Receipt (AOR). This document confirms that your application is in the system and has passed the initial completeness check.

Getting an AOR is the first step toward a successful Canada sponsorship for relatives process. It includes your application number, which youll use to track progress online.

Tip: If you dont receive your AOR within a few weeks, double-check your submission for missing documents or contact IRCC.

2. Eligibility Review of the Sponsor

After receiving your AOR, IRCC will review whether the sponsor (you) meets the eligibility requirements. This includes checks on:

• Income thresholds

• Immigration status (must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident)

• Previous sponsorship history

This stage is crucial because the sponsor must demonstrate they can financially support the relative without government assistance. For many, this is the point at which their Canada sponsorship for relatives application gains momentum or stalls.

3. Assessment of the Sponsored Persons Eligibility

Once the sponsor passes the eligibility review, IRCC then evaluates the person being sponsored. This includes background checks, relationship verification, and medical examinations.

Commonly sponsored relatives include:

• Spouses and common-law partners

• Dependent children

• Parents and grandparents

• In some special cases, orphaned siblings or nieces/nephews

IRCC must be satisfied that the relationship is genuine, and that the sponsored person poses no inadmissibility issues, such as criminal background or serious health concerns.

4. Biometrics and Medical Exam Requests

Biometric data (fingerprints and photos) and a medical exam are mandatory parts of most Canada sponsorship for relatives applications. Once IRCC initiates this request, the applicant must complete the tasks within a given timeframe (usually 30 days).

Biometric data is used for identity verification and security screening. Meanwhile, medical exams ensure the sponsored individual does not pose a risk to Canadas public health system.

Pro Tip: Delays in this step can significantly slow down your processing timecomplete these tasks as soon as possible.

5. Application Processing and Background Checks

Once eligibility, biometrics, and medicals are cleared, the real waiting game begins. IRCC conducts detailed background checks, security screenings, and may request more documents if needed.

This is usually the longest part of the Canada sponsorship for relatives process, often taking several months or more, depending on the application type and the country of origin.

You can monitor progress using the IRCC portal or GCKey account. Patience is essential during this stage.

6. Additional Document Requests or Interviews (If Required)

In some cases, IRCC may request:

• Proof of relationship (e.g., wedding photos, chats, or joint financial documents)

• Clarification about previous applications or travel history

• An interview to confirm the authenticity of the relationship

This doesnt necessarily mean troubleits often standard for family sponsorships, especially for spouses or long-distance relationships. Just be honest, organized, and cooperative.

7. Decision Made: Approval or Refusal

Once all requirements are satisfied, IRCC will make a final decision. If approved, the sponsored relative will receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) or visa.

If refused, the applicant (and sponsor) will receive a refusal letter explaining the reasons. You may appeal the decision through the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) in most family class refusals.

Key Takeaway: A refusal doesnt always mean the endconsult an immigration professional to explore your options.

8. Arrival and Landing Process

For approved applicants, the final step is traveling to Canada and officially landing as a permanent resident. At this point, immigration officers at the port of entry will verify documentation and issue a PR card.

Sponsors should help their relatives settle in by arranging housing, registering for health care, and connecting with community resources.

This successful landing marks the end of the Canada sponsorship for relatives journeybut the beginning of a new chapter in Canada.

Final Thoughts

The process after applying for Canada sponsorship for relatives involves multiple steps, from biometrics to background checks and final decisions. Each phase requires attention to detail, timely responses, and careful documentation.

By understanding what comes after submission, you can avoid delays, prepare your relative for the next stages, and increase the chances of a positive outcome.

Have questions about your sponsorship case or planning to apply soon? Consulting with a certified immigration consultant or lawyer can help you navigate the process confidently.