COVID-19 Update: How to unite with extended family members who are Canadian citizens or permanent residents

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated their instructions for allowing reunification of certain extended family members to relatives in Canada. This applies to anyone who:

• has a relationship with a Canadian Citizen or permanent resident, which is defined as:

  • in an exclusive dating relationship, have been in the relationship for at least 1 year and have spent time in the physical presence of that person at some point during the relationship

  • a non-dependent child (adult child)

  • a grandchild (dependent child of a non-dependent adult child)

  • a sibling, half-sibling or step-sibling

  • a grandparent

• is related to the spouse or common-law partner of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, defined as:

  • non-dependent child (adult child)

  • grandchild (dependent child of a non-dependent adult child)

  • sibling, half-sibling or step-sibling

  • grandparent

• is in an exclusive dating relationship with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

  • dependent child

  • non-dependent child (adult child)

  • grandchild (dependent child of a non-dependent adult child)

There are specific instructions and procedures that must be followed in order for these extended family members to be allowed to travel to Canada. Contact me if you require assistance with travel to Canada for extended family members.