Dependent children in Canadian immigration applications: eligibility and age-lock date

IRCC defines eligibility criteria for dependent children and the age determination date based on the application type. Not all programs lock age on the date IRCC receives the PR application.

1. Dependent child eligibility

Children under 22 are eligible based on age if they do not have a spouse or common-law partner. Children 22 and older may be eligible if they have been financially dependent on their parents since before the age of 22 and are unable to support themselves due to a physical or mental condition.

2. Age lock dates vary by program

Section 25.1 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations (IRPR) distinguishes between one-step processes and cases with earlier milestones. IRCC outlines the common milestones as follows:

3. Eligibility during processing

For PR applications, IRCC uses the age at the age lock date even if the child grows older during the processing period. The requirement of not having a spouse or common-law partner must still be maintained according to IRCC guidelines.

4. Temporary residence applications

For visitor visas, study permits, or work permits, the child must meet the applicable criteria at the time IRCC receives the application. Dependent children need to apply for their own appropriate temporary residence documents; the status of a dependent child does not automatically substitute for a visa or permit.