Question: How many supporting documents do I need to file?
Jennifer’s Answer: This is one of the most frequently asked questions we get from clients. They need clarity on how many (and which) supporting documents are required when applying for permanent residence in Canada.
As of June, 2018, the Family sponsorship application kit requires far fewer supporting documents than before. It is very important to remember, though, that the required documents are only that – the minimum requirement. In other words, the required documents are what your application must have in order to be filed. But submitting those documents does NOT guarantee you approval. Upon receipt of only these required documents, your application may not be approved. But keep in mind – there is no maximum on documentation submitted! It is up to you as an applicant to convince Immigration Refugee Citizenship Canada that your application should be approved – the onus is on you to decide whether you provide sufficient documentary evidence to prove your case.
If your application does not have sufficient documentary evidence, your application, depending on what kind it is, may be refused OR you may be asked to show up for an interview, which means a much longer processing time for your application, AND a lot of extra pressure on you to prove your merit in person.
It is important to determine right off the bat what supporting documentary evidence is required at minimum to get your application filed, but it is more critical to know what documentary evidence will assist you in getting it all the way to the approval stage, with a greater chance of success in a shorter period of time.
Are you struggling to determine which documents you need and which documents would benefit your application most? Contact us at contact@jrlawoffice.com or 519-744-3570 to set-up a consultation. We’re here to help!
— Jennifer Roggemann
Please note that this posting is for general information only and is not to be considered binding or official legal counsel since situations will vary and can be complicated. The content in this post is current as of the day of entry. Due to the changing nature of Immigration law, the information in this entry may or may not still be applicable.