The Government of Canada has changed the definition of the age of dependants from ‘under 19’ to ‘under 22’.
This change applies to all new applications received by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on or after 24th October.
“By making our immigration program more inclusive, the Government of Canada is demonstrating its commitment to family reunification,” explained Ahmed Hussen, Minister of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship. “Raising the age limit not only benefits immigrants whose families can stay together, it also helps to make Canada a destination of choice for immigrants, leading to significant economic and social benefits for our country.”
Children who are 22 years of age or older and who rely on their parents due to a physical or mental health condition will continue to be considered dependent children.
To help even more families stay together, the government has introduced a public policy that would allow for the addition or sponsorship of some children whose parents had existing applications in process on 3rd May 2017, or who have applied since that time.
Article published 30th October 2017