Free Imm 1344 Application Form in PDF

Free Imm 1344 Application Form in PDF

The IMM 1344 Application Form is a crucial document provided by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada for individuals looking to sponsor a family member for permanent residence in Canada. This comprehensive form captures essential information, including the sponsor's and the principal applicant's personal details, sponsorship agreement, and undertaking responsibilities. It's the first step in a journey towards reuniting families in Canada. For those ready to take this step, click the button below to begin filling out your IMM 1344 form.

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The IMM 1344 Application Form, titled "Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking," is an essential document issued by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada for individuals looking to sponsor a family member for Canadian permanent residency. This comprehensive form encompasses several critical sections, beginning with the sponsor's eligibility assessment to determine whether one can proceed with the sponsorship. It includes personal details such as full name, birth date, and current marital status of the sponsor, and similar information must be provided for the person being sponsored. The form also requests the choice of language for correspondence, the presence of a co-signer, and specifics regarding the relationship with the principal applicant. Moreover, it dives into the sponsor's residency declaration, assessing the sponsor's intent to reside within Canada again, which is crucial for those living outside of Canada. The eligibility of the sponsor is further evaluated through a series of questions within the form, touching upon age, citizenship status, capability to provide financial support, and past sponsorship undertakings. This thorough documentation facilitates a careful screening to uphold the integrity of the sponsorship process, ensuring that candidates meet the requisite criteria to foster family reunification in Canada.

Preview - Imm 1344 Application Form

Document Specs

Fact Name Description
Form Title Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking
Issuing Authority Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada
Form Number IMM 1344
Refund Policy If found ineligible to sponsor, all processing fees less $75 will be refunded.
Co-signer Requirement A co-signer must be the spouse or common-law partner of the sponsor.
Residency Declaration Sponsors must declare whether they are a Canadian citizen living outside Canada and their intent to reside in Canada post-sponsorship.
Eligibility Questions Applicants must answer eligibility questions, including age, citizenship, and sponsorship qualifications.
Exclusions for Sponsorship Sponsors may be ineligible due to previous sponsorship obligations, bankruptcy, or receipt of social assistance for reasons other than disability.
Version Date June 2019 (06-2019)

Instructions on Writing Imm 1344 Application

Filling out the IMM 1344 Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking form is an essential step in the sponsorship process for bringing a family member to Canada. Care and attention to detail are required to ensure all the information is accurate and complete. The following steps guide you through this task smoothly.

  1. Start by reading the guide available on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website to understand eligibility and documentation requirements.
  2. Enter your personal details in the sponsor section, including your full name as it appears on your passport or travel document, and specify if you have ever used any other name.
  3. Select your language preference for correspondence with the immigration office.
  4. Indicate if there is a co-signer on the application (note: the co-signer must be the spouse or common-law partner of the sponsor).
  5. Enter the personal details of the person you are sponsoring, including their family name(s), given name(s), and relationship to you.
  6. Specify your contact information, including current mailing and residential addresses, telephone numbers, and email address.
  7. If you are a Canadian citizen living outside Canada, declare your intention to reside in Canada upon your family becoming permanent residents.
  8. Answer eligibility assessment questions truthfully, which will determine if you are eligible to sponsor. These questions cover your age, citizenship or permanent resident status, whether you are sponsoring a family class member, and your current residency status.
  9. If you reside or intend to reside in Quebec, note that some questions may not apply to you. Refer to the guide for specific instructions.
  10. Review your answers carefully and sign and date the form.

After completing and submitting the IMM 1344 form along with all required documents, the application will be processed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. This will involve assessing your eligibility to sponsor and the admissibility of the person you are sponsoring. Patience is key, as processing times can vary. You will be notified of the decision and next steps through the contact information provided in your application.

Understanding Imm 1344 Application

What is the IMM 1344 form?

The IMM 1344 form, titled 'Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking,' is a document issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It's used by Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, or dependent children for permanent residence in Canada.

Who can act as a co-signer on this application?

A co-signer can only be the spouse or common-law partner of the sponsor. They must meet the same eligibility requirements as the primary sponsor and agree to help support the financial needs of the person being sponsored.

What happens if my sponsorship application is found ineligible?

If your application is found ineligible, you have two options. You can choose to withdraw your sponsorship application, in which case all processing fees minus $75 will be refunded. Alternatively, you can proceed with the application for permanent residence for the person you are sponsoring, but the processing fees will be retained by the government.

Can I sponsor someone if I live outside Canada?

Canadian citizens living exclusively outside of Canada can sponsor their spouse, common-law partner, conjugal partner, or dependent children. However, they must demonstrate their intention to live in Canada once the sponsored individual becomes a permanent resident. Permanent residents must reside in Canada to sponsor someone.

What happens if I am receiving social assistance?

If you are receiving social assistance for a reason other than disability, you are not eligible to sponsor. Sponsors must prove they can financially support the sponsored person and meet their basic needs.

Does the IMM 1344 form apply to sponsors living in Quebec?

Sponsors who reside or intend to reside in Quebec need to follow specific procedures set by the province of Quebec. Although they start with the IMM 1344, they must also meet Quebec's sponsorship requirements, which include filling out additional forms provided by the province.

Am I eligible to sponsor if I was sponsored as a spouse, common-law or conjugal partner less than five years ago?

No, if you became a permanent resident after being sponsored as a spouse, common-law, or conjugal partner in the five years preceding your application, you are not eligible to be a sponsor.

What are the consequences if I have an undischarged bankruptcy?

An undischarged bankruptcy disqualifies you from sponsoring, as it raises concerns about your ability to provide financial support to the sponsored person. You must be discharged from bankruptcy to be eligible.

Can I sponsor more than one person at a time?

You can sponsor more than one person if you meet all of the financial requirements for each sponsored person. However, sponsoring multiple people can significantly increase the financial responsibility you're undertaking.

What information do I need to provide about my current marital status?

You must disclose your current marital status, including the date you were married or entered into your current common-law relationship. If applicable, you should also provide information regarding previous marriages or common-law relationships.

Common mistakes

Filling out the IMM 1344 Application form for sponsoring a relative to come to Canada can be a complex process. Many applicants, in their eagerness to complete the process, end up making errors that could have been easily avoided. Understanding these common pitfalls can ensure a smoother application process.

One prevalent mistake is not verifying the accuracy of personal details. It's essential that the information given matches exactly what's on passports or travel documents. This includes full names, birth dates, and even the specific spelling of every detail. Any discrepancy here can lead to delays or rejections.

Another issue arises with the marital status and relationship details. Applicants often overlook the importance of providing the exact date of marriage or the start of a common-law relationship. Keeping track of these dates is not just for memory's sake; it's crucial for the application. The Canadian government needs this information to accurately assess the application.

Language preference for correspondence is another section that might seem trivial but is quite significant. Applicants sometimes select a language based on convenience rather than considering what language they are most proficient in. This choice dictates how you will receive all communication regarding your application, so it's vital to choose wisely.

Many individuals also mistakenly believe that the section on proceeding with the application despite ineligibility does not apply to them and skip it. However, making a conscious choice and marking one of the options is crucial. It informs Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) about your intentions should you be found ineligible to sponsor.

A critical step that is often missed is the question about previously sponsored individuals or social assistance. It's not just about whether you have previously sponsored someone but also about any social assistance received by them during the period of undertaking. Being transparent and accurate in this section avoids complications later.

The question on current residence and intentions to reside in Canada post-sponsorship seems straightforward but can be confusing. Applicants residing or intending to reside outside Quebec must be clear about their residency plans. This information helps determine if the sponsorship aligns with Canadian immigration policies.

Applicants sometimes neglect to fill in details about previous marriages or common-law relationships. This oversight can lead to incomplete applications. Understanding that every detail of one’s relationship history matters to IRCC is key to a complete application.

An all-too-common error is not properly updating the mailing and residential addresses. Mismatched or outdated information here can mean missing crucial correspondence from IRCC. Ensuring these details are current and match across all official documents is fundamental.

Lastly, failing to indicate a co-signer on the application when applicable is a mistake not to be overlooked. If planning to have a co-signer, such as a spouse or common-law partner, this section must be filled out accurately to reflect that decision.

In conclusion, avoiding these mistakes on the IMM 1344 Application form can greatly enhance the chances of a successful sponsorship. Paying close attention to detail, providing accurate information, and understanding the importance of each query will guide applicants through a seamless process.

Documents used along the form

Filling out the IMM 1344 form, which is the Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement, and Undertaking, is a critical step in the process of sponsoring a spouse, partner, or dependent child for Canadian permanent residency. While this form is essential, it is only one part of the documentation required during the application process. To ensure a comprehensive application, several other forms and documents are often used in conjunction with IMM 1344.

  • IMM 5669: Schedule A Background/Declaration - This form is required for the person being sponsored. It requests detailed personal information to conduct a background check.
  • IMM 5406: Additional Family Information - This form must be completed by both the sponsor and the sponsored person to provide information about their family members, whether or not they intend to come to Canada.
  • IMM 5476: Use of a Representative - If a representative is helping with the application, this form authorizes Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to share information with them.
  • IMM 5532: Relationship Information and Sponsorship Evaluation - This document is crucial for spousal or partner sponsorship as it assesses the genuineness of the relationship between the sponsor and the sponsored person.
  • IMM 5285: Sponsorship Evaluation and Undertaking - Required for parents and grandparents sponsorship, this form evaluates the sponsor's financial ability to support the sponsored family members.
  • IMM 5748: Financial Evaluation for Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship - This detailed financial form is necessary for those sponsoring parents or grandparents, to ensure the sponsor has the means to support the sponsored individuals for the duration of the undertaking.

In addition to these forms, applicants will need to provide a variety of supporting documents, such as proof of relationship, financial documents, and identity papers. Each document plays a significant role in substantiating the application and ensuring that the sponsor and the sponsored person meet all eligibility requirements. Adequate preparation and thoroughness in completing these additional forms and gathering the necessary documents can significantly influence the outcome of the sponsorship application.

Similar forms

The Form I-130, Petition for Alien Relative, employed by the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS), exhibits notable similarities to the IMM 1344 form in that both serve as the foundational step in the family-based immigration sponsorship process. The Form I-130 is specifically designed for U.S. citizens or lawful permanent residents to establish a qualifying relationship with a relative they wish to bring to or keep in the United States. Like the IMM 1344, it requires detailed personal information about both the sponsor and the beneficiary, including their full names, countries of birth, marital status, and addresses. Additionally, both forms are crucial for determining the eligibility of the sponsor and setting the stage for the beneficiary’s immigration application.

The Affidavit of Support Form I-864 is another document that shares its core purpose with the IMM 1344, although it focuses more on the financial aspects of sponsorship. This form is used in the U.S. immigration process to demonstrate that an immigrant has adequate financial support and is unlikely to rely on government assistance. Key similarities include the requirement for the sponsor to provide detailed personal and financial information, as well as to make a legally binding commitment to support the immigrant financially. The IMM 1344 includes a similar undertaking, ensuring the sponsored individual will not need to seek social assistance, thus aligning with the goals of the I-864 to prevent public charge.

The UK's equivalent, the Sponsorship Undertaking form (SU07/12), shares objectives with the IMM 1344, focusing on family migration and ensuring the sponsor can financially support the arriving family member. It requires the sponsor to agree to provide accommodation and maintenance for the applicant without recourse to public funds. This parallels the IMM 1344's function in the Canadian immigration system, where the sponsor commits to financially support the sponsored individual to prevent them from needing to access public assistance, illustrating the international consistency in the approach toward family sponsorship obligations.

In Australia, the Form 40 Sponsorship for migration to Australia plays a comparable role to Canada's IMM 1344, initiating the process for Australian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor family members for migration. Both forms collect detailed information on the sponsor and the sponsored individual, including personal details and the nature of their relationship. Moreover, they assess the sponsor's eligibility and willingness to support the incoming relative, emphasizing the global significance of ensuring immigrants have a support system upon arriving in a new country.

Dos and Don'ts

When completing the IMM 1344 Application form for sponsorship, it is crucial to approach the process thoughtfully and meticulously. To ensure a smooth application process, here are several recommended actions and practices to avoid:

  • Do thoroughly read the entire form before beginning to fill it out. Understanding each section's requirements will make the process smoother.
  • Do ensure that all information provided matches the official documents. Accuracy is key in avoiding delays or rejections.
  • Do use black ink and write legibly if filling out the form by hand. The clarity of your handwriting can impact the processing of your application.
  • Do keep a copy of the completed form and all attached documents for your records. This practice helps in tracking your application's progress and answering any follow-up queries.
  • Do include all required documents listed in the checklist provided in the application package to prove your eligibility and relationship with the person being sponsored.
  • Don't leave any sections blank. If a section does not apply, indicate with "N/A" for "Not Applicable". Incomplete forms can result in processing delays.
  • Don't forget to sign and date the form. An unsigned application is considered incomplete and will be returned.
  • Don't underestimate the importance of the declaration about your intent to reside in Canada. Your response must reflect your genuine intention.
  • Don't hesitate to seek clarification or assistance if you encounter difficulties or have questions about filling out the form. Getting it right the first time can save a considerable amount of time and effort.

Approach the application process with diligence and attention to detail, ensuring that all information is complete, accurate, and consistent with your supporting documents. The success of your application depends heavily on the care taken during this initial phase.

Misconceptions

Filling out the IMM 1344 form, officially known as the "Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement, and Undertaking," is a crucial step for those in Canada wishing to sponsor their family members for permanent residency. However, misunderstandings about the form and its requirements can complicate the process. Below are eight common misconceptions about the IMM 1344 form explained:

  • Only Canadian citizens can sponsor family members: It’s a common misconception that permanent residents of Canada cannot sponsor family members. In reality, both Canadian citizens and permanent residents are eligible to be sponsors, provided they meet certain conditions laid out in the form.

  • All processing fees are non-refundable: Some applicants believe once paid, the processing fees are non-refundable, regardless of the application's outcome. However, the form states that if an individual is found ineligible to sponsor, all processing fees less $75 will be refunded if they choose to withdraw their application.

  • Sponsors must reside in Canada exclusively: The form asks if the sponsor is a Canadian citizen living exclusively outside Canada, leading to confusion that sponsors must reside in Canada. While residency in Canada is a typical requirement, Canadian citizens living abroad may still sponsor, provided they intend to return to Canada when the sponsored individual becomes a permanent resident.

  • Any family member can act as a co-signer: A notable misconception is that any family member can be a co-signer on the application. In fact, only the spouse or common-law partner of the sponsor can serve as a co-signer, as explicitly stated in the form.

  • Sponsors are automatically ineligible if they have received social assistance: Many believe that receiving any form of social assistance automatically disqualifies them from being a sponsor. However, receiving social assistance for a reason other than disability does not necessarily disqualify one from sponsorship eligibility.

  • The form is only available in English: Some applicants might think the IMM 1344 form is available solely in English. The form is also available in French, accommodating both of Canada's official languages and reflecting the country's bilingual nature.

  • Email address is optional for communication: The form’s section on contact information may lead some to mistakenly believe providing an email address is optional and all communication will be via mail. Indicating an email authorizes correspondence, including personal and file information, to be sent electronically, which is crucial for timely updates.

  • There’s no need to update marital status if previously divorced: Another misunderstanding is the belief there is no need to declare previous marriages if the applicant is currently single or divorced. The form requires information on all previous marriages or common-law relationships, ensuring comprehensive background details are accounted for.

Understanding these nuances of the IMM 1344 form can greatly smooth the sponsorship process, ensuring applicants meet all requirements and avoid potential delays or denials in their application.

Key takeaways

When filling out the IMM 1344 Application Form for sponsoring a relative for Canadian immigration, it is essential to pay attention to detail and follow the instructions carefully. Here are some key takeaways to ensure the process goes smoothly:

  • Ensure all personal details for both the sponsor and the person being sponsored (principal applicant) are filled out exactly as they appear on official documents like passports or travel documents.
  • The form allows you to state a preference for correspondence language, ensuring clear communication between you and Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
  • Decide early on whether you wish to proceed with the application if found ineligible to sponsor. Knowing your next steps, including the financial implications, is critical.
  • Clarify whether there is a co-signer on the application. Remember, the co-signer must be the spouse or common-law partner of the sponsor.
  • If applicable, provide accurate details about your relationship with the principal applicant, including the nature of your relationship and significant dates.
  • Complete the Sponsor Eligibility Assessment section with utmost honesty. Certain conditions might make you ineligible to sponsor, such as being under 18 years old, not being a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, or depending on social assistance for reasons other than disability.
  • For Canadian citizens living exclusively outside of Canada, special conditions regarding your residency intentions post-sponsorship need to be met, especially when intending to live in Quebec.
  • If previously married or in a common-law relationship, you must provide comprehensive details regarding your past partner(s).
  • Ensure your contact information is up-to-date, including your mailing address and email. This ensures you receive all correspondence related to the application without delay.

Completing the IMM 1344 requires careful attention to detail and honesty. Be thorough when providing personal details and understand your obligations and rights as a sponsor. This form is a critical step in reuniting families in Canada, making accuracy and honesty paramount.

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