Navigating changes in family circumstances after submitting a family class immigration application to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires understanding specific procedures tailored to each situation. Here’s how you can address various scenarios to ensure your application remains accurate and compliant:
Adding a New Family Member
If there’s a new addition to your family after submitting the application, such as a newborn child or another dependent, follow these steps:
- Dependent Child: Adding a dependent child doesn’t require a new Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) assessment. Ensure to pay applicable fees and complete necessary medical and background checks.
- Newborn Child: If your family grows with a newborn after receiving a Permanent Resident (PR) visa but before becoming a Canadian PR, pay the processing fee and arrange a medical examination for the child to add them to your application.
Changing the Principal Applicant
In rare cases where the principal applicant (e.g., a parent or spouse) passes away after submitting the application, IRCC allows for a change in the principal applicant to another eligible family class member, such as a surviving spouse or a parent/grandparent of the sponsor. IRCC will require updated versions of specific forms without additional fees.
Changes in Sponsor’s Circumstances
If IRCC identifies new information suggesting the sponsor may no longer meet income requirements, they may pause processing. The sponsor can submit additional documents demonstrating their current financial situation over the preceding 12 months to reassess eligibility. IRCC ensures permanent resident visas are issued only if sponsorship requirements are still met.
Changes in Relationship Status
Changes from common-law partners to spouses or other relationship transitions during application processing should be reported to IRCC. While these changes typically don’t require a reassessment, IRCC must verify the ongoing genuineness and compliance with Canadian legal requirements concerning the relationship.
What Happens Next
Upon notifying IRCC of any changes, they will guide you through any necessary steps to update your application. It’s crucial to promptly inform IRCC of changes to maintain the integrity of your application and ensure continued eligibility for family class sponsorship.
Understanding these procedures and promptly addressing any changes ensures your family class application remains on track for successful processing. For more detailed guidance tailored to your specific circumstances, consult IRCC’s resources or seek advice from an immigration professional.
By staying informed and proactive, you can navigate changes in your family situation with confidence, ensuring your journey towards Canadian residency is as smooth as possible.
