Did you know that a Canadian citizen or permanent resident can sponsor their friend or loved one who wishes to work and live in Quebec?
Quebec has its own immigration policies. That means that candidates undergo an additional application process at the provincial level. The initial process is at the federal level and involves applying with the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Afterward, they apply to the Ministry of Immigration, Francization, and Integration (MIFI) in Quebec.
Steps Involved in Sponsoring a Partner’s Immigration to Quebec
Suppose you plan to sponsor a partner to enter Canada, and subsequently Quebec. In that case, the initial step is to submit a sponsorship and permanent residency application with the federal government. You need to submit the necessary paperwork and the required fees to the IRCC. The documents should include the sponsored person’s application.
If the IRCC approves the application, you will need to apply with the MIFI. At this juncture, you enter a binding contract between you [as your partner’s sponsor] and the Quebec government. You will have to visit the MIFI website ad download the relevant forms, fill them and submit them along with supporting papers and application fees.
If MIFI approves the application, it will forward it to the IRCC responsible for processing applications for permanent residency for the sponsored spouse. Even so, the person you are sponsoring must meet several requirements. For instance, they should not have a past criminal record, be in good health, and adhere to security requirements as per the IRCC policies.
The IRCC takes about a year [12 months] to process spousal sponsorship applications. That includes a three-month waiting period as the application undergoes review.
In Quebec, your sponsored spouse can benefit from the various programs that the MIFI provides. For example, they will get guidance from a qualified immigration officer, French classes, and information sessions. They also have access to institutions that welcome them and offer an easy transition into the province.
