Ottawa, October 28, 2016 — The Government of Canada is committed to family reunification. Draft regulatory changes to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations outlining the proposed change to the definition of a dependent child have been published in the Canada Gazette, Part I, for a 30-day comment period.

The current definition of a dependent child came into effect on August 1, 2014, and changed the maximum age from “less than 22” to “less than 19” years of age. The proposed regulatory change would return the maximum age to “less than 22”.

Restoring the age would mean more families being able to stay together, helping to make Canada a destination of choice for immigrants. When immigrant families are able to stay together, their integration into Canada and their ability to work and contribute to their communities all improve.

The proposed change reflects the global trend of children living at home for longer periods, particularly those pursuing their studies. In general, older children are a benefit to their family, as well as society as a whole, as they often help care for younger siblings, which helps free up parents to work more. They may also work and contribute economically to their families and society.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada is soliciting written comments from all interested parties on the proposed regulatory amendments. Read more about the proposed changes on the Canada Gazette website.

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