Sponsor your adopted child

Overview

You can apply to sponsor your child once the adoption process progresses. Depending on the laws of the child’s home country, two types of adoptions for children under 18 are recognized by Canada:

  • Adoption Completed Outside of Canada: In some cases, the intercountry adoption must be finalized outside of Canada, following the legal procedures of the child’s home country.
  • Adoption Completed in Canada: Alternatively, the adoption may be completed within Canada, adhering to Canadian adoption laws and processes.

Eligibility

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

  • Be a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident (if you do not reside in Canada at present, you must do so when the adopted child is granted permanent residency).
  • Live in Canada
  • Attain a Letter of Agreement, Letter of No Objection, or Letter of No Involvement from the province or territory you reside in

Rules for intercountry adoptions

  • They must be legally recognized in the child’s home country and the province or territory where you reside.
  • The adoption must legally terminate the relationship between the adopted child and their biological parents.
  • The adoption process should fulfill the requirements of your specific province or territory, including a home study.
  • A genuine parent-child relationship must be established between you and the adopted child.
  • The adoption must be in the child’s best interests and not primarily to gain permanent resident status for the child in Canada.
  • If you are adopting a child from outside Canada, they may be sponsored to come to Canada if certain conditions are met, including obtaining informed consent from both biological parents (if they are alive), completing the legal adoption abroad, and meeting the requirements of the Hague Convention if applicable.

Medical Check

Additionally, adopted children are required to undergo a medical examination before receiving a permanent resident visa. Your province, territory, or a licensed adoption agency will communicate the process and timing of this examination. You will also need to confirm that you have received information about any medical conditions the child may have.


Please Note:

Adopting a relative involves unique circumstances, and it’s crucial to follow the applicable laws and procedures to ensure a smooth and legally compliant adoption process.

It’s important to note that intercountry adoption can be a complex process, and specific requirements may vary depending on the country of adoption and your home province or territory. For detailed guidance, you should contact your provincial or territorial government office, which can provide information about adoption requirements specific to your situation.

Fee

  • Sponsorship fee: $75
  • Processing fee: $75