Family Sponsorship vs Economic Immigration: Canada is one of the famous countries in the World that offers a number of pathways to get Immigration for the individuals who want to reunite with loved ones, work and live in the country. Among these Immigration Options, Family Sponsorship and Economic Immigration are the most famous categories.
As both of these options give pathway to permanent residency, as both have different processes, eligibility and purpose too. Now once you understand these differences, this information will help applicants to choose the correct pathway based on long-term goals and personal situation.
1. Overview of both Pathways
Family Sponsorship program is the program which focuses on bridging family distances by allowing Canadian Permanent Residents and Citizens to sponsor their loved ones to live in Canada. The purpose of this program is to support family reunification and strengthen family bonds.
Whereas, Economic Immigration attracts investors, entrepreneurs, and skilled workers who can aid the economy of Canada. It gives importance to the individuals who have the capability to enhance productivity, boost innovation, and labour shortages in different industries.
2. Bring Your Loved Ones Together by Family Sponsorship Program
The Family Sponsorship Program is a compassionate and emotional stream which is designed to get families united under a single roof in Canada. Sponsors must promise to their relatives that he or she will support them financially and make sure they will not be dependent on the Government.
Family Sponsorship Key Categories:
- Common-law Partner or Spousal Sponsorship: For common-law partners or married of Permanent Residents or Canadian citizens.
- GrandParent and Parent Sponsorship: Allows PR holders and citizens to bring their grandparents and parents to Canada.
- Child Sponsorship (Dependent): For adopted or biological children under a specific age who is financially dependent on their parents.
Eligibility:
- The age of the sponsor must be 18 years old.
- Must be a Canadian citizen or Permanent Resident living in Canada.
- Need to prove the capability of the sponsor that he/she can support the sponsored person financially.
- The relationship between sponsor and sponsored person must be legal and genuine recognized.
Processing time for the Family Sponsorship Program: Applications under Family sponsorship Program can take a time period from 6 months to 2 years, it all depends on the country and category of application..
3. Economic Immigration: Strengthening Canadian Workforce
The Economic Immigration stream is well designed for those individuals who can be involved in adding up Canada’s economy through their work experience, education, and skills. This program attracts professionals who can merge into the Canadian Labour Market and meet the requirements of different industries.
Different Economic Immigration Programs:
- Express Entry System: This Immigration Program includes the Canadian Experience Class (CEC), Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP), and Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP).
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs): PNP Immigration Program allows provinces to recommend applicants who meet specific requirements of the local labour market.
- Start-Up Visa Program: This program is designed especially for entrepreneurs who carry innovative business ideas which are being supported by designated organizations.
- Atlantic Immigration Program: This program focuses on international graduates and skilled workers in the Atlantic provinces of Canada.
Eligibility Criteria:
- Your eligibility is based on some important factors like adaptability, work experience, English Language Proficiency, Education and Age.
- Need a valid medical, security background check and proof of funds.
- Applicants may obtain PR once they are selected through nominations or draws.
Processing time for The Economic Immigration stream: For Express Entry applications, this program takes around 6 months or less, whereas for PNPs Program time period may vary.
4. Difference Between Family Sponsorship and Economic Immigration
Aspect | Family Sponsorship | Economic Immigration |
Purpose | Family Reunion | Build Up Canadian Economy with Skilled Workers |
Initial Requirement | Relation with sponsor | Require Work Experience, Education and Skills |
Financial Liability | Applicant needs Sponsor Support | Applicant supports Dependent and Self |
Selection Procedure | This Program is dependent on family ties | This Program is dependent on Merit and Points |
Processing Time | Around 6–24 months (varies) | Approx 6–12 months (varies) |
Permanent Residency | Sanctioned upon approval | Sanctioned upon invitation or selection |
5. Choosing Correct Pathway
Choosing between Family Sponsorship and Economic Immigration all depends on your circumstances and personal goals.
- If you are close to the family member living in Canada and are willing to support you completely, then Family Sponsorship provides you with an emotional and a direct route to Family Reunification.
- On the other hand, if you are an entrepreneur or a skilled professional who wants to do business or build a career in Canada, then the Economic Immigration Program is the best option for you.
There are some applicants who even combine both of these pathways like, firstly, they come through an economic program and then later on, once they become Canadian Permanent Resident, they go for sponsoring the family members.
6. Key Takeaways for Family Sponsorship vs Economic Immigration
Both Programs i.e Family Sponsorship and Economic Immigration play a very important role in shaping Canada’s economically vibrant and multicultural society. Family Sponsorship Program strengthens social stability and emotional connections, whereas Economic Immigration sparks innovation and growth.
Understanding the long-term responsibilities, timelines and eligibility criteria of each program enables applicants to make strong applications. Canada always provides you a welcoming path which suits you best, whether you are looking forward to meeting with your loved ones or building your future through skills.
