Immigration Corner | How do I apply?

Immigration Corner | How do I apply?: 

Dear Miss Powell,

I recently got married to a Canadian citizen. I am in the process of putting together a sponsorship application and I'm wondering if I'm doing it right. I've heard of people's applications getting sent back and I want to avoid that. Can you tell me some of the reasons that applications are sent back?

- HM

Dear HM,

Immigration Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has simplified the process and the number of forms in sponsorship applications. Although the process has been simplified, the requirements are the same. It is usually recommended that you seek the assistance of an immigration lawyer to avoid many of the pitfalls and delays.

Your first step would be to ensure that you read the guidelines and download the appropriate forms. IRCC is constantly updating the forms and procedures, therefore it is imperative that you check their website to ensure that you are completing the most recent forms. The latest updates to the forms and guideline were issued on February 14, 2018.

Complete The Latest Forms

Check to ensure that you are completing the latest forms. The date of the form is written at the bottom left corner of each form. For example, the additional family information form has been recently updated, so you will now see IMM5406 (02-2018) E. This is an indication that the form was issued in February 2018. Another important update is that you are now required to include the Schedule A - Background/Declaration (IMM 5669) form with your initial application.

Pay attention to ensure that each person completes the required forms. The sponsor is required to complete his own forms and you, as the person being sponsored, are the applicant and will be required to complete and sign another set of forms. Be sure that the correct forms are completed and signed by the correct person. You can use the checklist as a guide to ensure that both you and the sponsor complete and sign the appropriate forms.

It is recommended that you use a computer to complete the forms, as you are usually able to spot errors or missing information more easily. Do not forget to validate the forms when required and print and submit all the pages.

Check to see if you are required to submit additional forms or documents based on your country of residence.

It is your duty to include all the required supporting documents. Your spouse will need to provide proof of citizenship or permanent residence, as well as proof that he has sufficient income to provide for the basic living expenses for you and your dependent children, if any. Part of the requirement is to submit an 'Option C' printout of his latest tax return.

Ensure that your photographs are taken according to the IRCC specifications. You should print the photo specification and take it with you to the photographer to ensure that the pictures are the right size.

Proof of relationship is critical to your application. You should include letters from family members, relationship and wedding pictures. Also include phone records, letters, emails and social media posts. Review the items to ensure that they are appropriate, that they capture the essence of your relationship and really prove that your relationship is authentic.

 Police Records

 You should include police records from all the countries where you have resided for over six months. If you do not have all the reports, an explanation must be provided.

You will be advised when you are required to do the medical. When advised, you must visit a doctor on the IRCC's authorised list of medical professionals in your home country. A report from your regular family doctor cannot be submitted unless he/she is on the list.

You are now required to make the payment online using a credit card and then printing and enclosing the receipt with the application. Some individuals have made the mistake of submitting payment by bank draft to the foreign visa office. This could cause your application to be delayed or returned to you. Check the website to ensure that you are submitting the correct application fees.

This list is not exhaustive, so if you are having issues or concerns, you should consult personally with an immigration lawyer about this important application.

Deidre S. Powell is an international lawyer, mediator and notary public who is a member of the Jamaican and Ontario, Canada bars. Her office is located in Ottawa, Ontario. Her areas of practice are in immigration, commercial, real estate, family and administration of estates. Email: info@deidrepowell.com. Subject line: Immigration or Tel: 613.695.8777