Adopted Child Sponsorship

When sponsoring your adopted child from another country, you need to complete two main processes: the adoption process and the immigration process. The immigration process consists of two steps:

• Application for Sponsorship
• Application for Permanent Residence for the child

Once your child arrives in Canada as a permanent resident, you can apply for Canadian citizenship on their behalf. However, the adoption must be finalized before the child can be granted citizenship.

To sponsor a child from another country for adoption, you must:

- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident (if you currently reside outside Canada, you must move to Canada when the adopted child becomes a permanent resident).

- Reside in Canada.

- Be at least 18 years old.

You may not be eligible to sponsor if:

- You failed to meet the requirements of a previous sponsorship agreement.

- You defaulted on court-ordered support obligations, such as alimony or child support.

- You have been convicted of a violent criminal offense (depending on the nature of the offense, when it occurred, and whether a record suspension was granted).

- You do not live in Canada and do not plan to reside there full-time when the child becomes a permanent resident.

If you live in Quebec, you must also meet Quebec’s immigration sponsorship requirements.

Intercountry adoptions typically occur in the child’s home country, and each country has its own laws and procedures. Some countries permit adoptions only within their borders, while others may allow adoptions outside the country. Adoption laws can vary widely.

If you are adopting a child who is related to you, different rules may apply based on the country of origin and your province or territory.

For Canadian immigration purposes, all intercountry adoptions must:

- Be legally recognized in the child’s home country and in your province or territory.

- Terminate the legal relationship between the child and their biological parents.

- Fulfill provincial or territorial requirements, including a home study.

- Establish a genuine parent-child relationship.

- Be in the child’s best interests.

- Not be primarily intended to secure permanent resident status for the child in Canada.

Children adopted outside Canada can be sponsored to come to Canada if:

- Consent has been given by both biological parents (if they are living).

- The child has been legally adopted outside Canada.

- The requirements of the Hague Convention have been met, if applicable.

Adopted children must undergo a medical examination before receiving a permanent resident visa. Details on how and when the exam will take place will be provided by your province or territory or a licensed adoption agency. You must also confirm that you have been informed about any medical conditions the child may have.

Intercountry adoption is complex, and additional requirements may apply depending on the child’s home country and your province or territory. Consult with your provincial or territorial government office for specific adoption requirements.

Confirm Eligibility:

   - Ensure you meet the requirements to sponsor, including being a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, residing in Canada, and being at least 18 years old.

Finalize the Adoption:

   - Complete the adoption process in the child’s home country according to local laws. The adoption must be legal and finalized before you can apply for sponsorship.

Gather Required Documents:

   - Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residency.

   - Legal adoption documents.

   - Evidence of a genuine parent-child relationship.

   - Proof of financial support capability.

   - Medical examination report for the child.

   - Any required consent from biological parents and compliance with the Hague Convention, if applicable.

Complete Application Forms:

   - Fill out the sponsorship application forms and the application for permanent residence. Forms are available on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

Pay Application Fees:

   - Submit the required fees for both the sponsorship and permanent residence applications.

Submit the Application:

   - Send the completed forms and supporting documents to the address provided by IRCC.

Medical Examination and Interview:

   - The child may need to undergo a medical examination and possibly attend an interview as part of the application process.

Wait for Processing:

   - Monitor the status of your application through your IRCC account. Processing times can vary based on the specifics of your case and the child’s home country.

Receive Decision:

   - If approved, the child will be granted permanent residency and can join you in Canada.

Apply for Citizenship (Optional):

    - Once the child is a permanent resident, you can apply for Canadian citizenship on their behalf, provided the adoption is finalized.

Medical Examination:
   - Ensure the child completes any required medical exams and that results are submitted promptly. Follow instructions provided by your province or territory or a licensed adoption agency.

Attend an Interview (if required):
   - If IRCC requests an interview, attend it as scheduled. This may involve an interview with the child or with you to discuss the adoption and your plans for the child.

Prepare for Arrival:
   - Once approved, make arrangements for the child’s arrival in Canada. This includes preparing necessary documents for travel, arranging accommodations, and ensuring a smooth transition.

Receive Permanent Resident Visa:
   - Upon approval, your adopted child will receive a permanent resident visa. Ensure all travel arrangements comply with visa requirements.

Arrival in Canada:
   - Upon arrival, complete any necessary immigration procedures at the port of entry. The child will officially become a permanent resident of Canada.

Apply for Citizenship (if applicable):
   - After the child’s arrival, you can apply for Canadian citizenship on their behalf, if the adoption is finalized and you wish to pursue this step.

Monitor Settlement:
   - Support the child’s adjustment to life in Canada, including enrolling them in school, accessing health care, and integrating into the community.

Maintain Records:
    - Keep records of all documents related to the adoption and immigration process. These may be needed for future reference or in case of any issues.