Changes to Age of Dependants policy

06/25/2013

Citizenship and Immigration Canada has proposed regulatory changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations that would reduce the age of dependants from 21 and under to 18 and under. The changes would also eliminate the exemption for older dependents in full-time studies. The exception for children who are 19 and over but financially dependent on their parents due to a physical or mental condition would be retained.

These revisions reflect a broader policy emphasis on creating an efficient and effective immigration system that focuses on the economic benefits of immigration.

Statistics demonstrate that older dependent children (19-21) have lower economic outcomes than those who arrive in Canada at a younger age. Older immigrants also have a more challenging time fully integrating into the Canadian labour market, especially when not selected based on their own merits (e.g. adult dependent children). The proposed definition is also in line with most provincial, federal and international standards on age of dependence.

These changes will still meet the immigration objective of family reunification by admitting dependent children, while prioritizing those most likely to integrate socially and economically. Older children would still have access to other Canadian immigration programs, emphasizing their economic potential and duration of their contribution to the economy.

These new rules will not apply to those who make permanent residence applications prior to January 1, 2014. Transitional provisions are proposed for certain groups of applicants already in the application process.

For more information on the proposed changes, consult the Canada Gazette entry.

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