Canadian Birth Visa: Application Process

As Canada offers one of the best healthcare systems in the world, many foreign nationals consider giving birth in Canada. It is important for parents to understand the Canadian birth visa application process before making any plans.

Eligibility

To be eligible for a Canadian birth visa, the birth mother must have legal status in Canada. This means that she must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or have a valid temporary resident status, such as a work permit, study permit or visitor visa. Additionally, the child must be born in Canada and be documented as such.

Application Process

The Canadian birth visa application process involves various steps. Firstly, the parents must obtain a Canadian birth certificate for the child. This certificate can be obtained from the province or territory where the child was born.

Once the birth certificate is obtained, the parents must complete the application for the child’s Canadian citizenship. This application must be submitted to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) along with the required supporting documentation, such as the child’s birth certificate and the parents’ immigration documents.

It is important to note that the application for Canadian citizenship cannot be submitted before the child is born. The application can be submitted as soon as the child’s birth certificate is obtained.

Processing Time

The processing time for a Canadian birth visa application varies. It can take several months for the application to be processed, so it is important for parents to plan accordingly. The application can be expedited if there are urgent circumstances, such as medical reasons.

Cost

The cost for a Canadian birth visa application is CAD $100 (as of 2021). This fee must be paid when the application is submitted.

FAQs

1. Can the parents of the child apply for Canadian citizenship?

No, only the child can apply for Canadian citizenship.

2. Can the child born in Canada sponsor their parents to become permanent residents?

Yes, the child can sponsor their parents to become permanent residents if the child is a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident.

3. Can a child born in Canada automatically obtain Canadian citizenship?

Yes, a child born in Canada is automatically a Canadian citizen, unless the child is born to a foreign diplomat or is a member of a visiting military force.

4. Can the parents travel with the child while waiting for the Canadian birth visa application to be processed?

Yes, as long as the parents have legal status in Canada and the child has a valid travel document, such as a passport.

5. What happens if the Canadian birth visa application is denied?

If the Canadian birth visa application is denied, the parents can appeal the decision or apply for a temporary resident permit to remain in Canada until they can apply again.

In conclusion, the Canadian birth visa application process can be complex and time-consuming, but it is important for parents to plan ahead to ensure a smooth process. It is recommended to seek advice and assistance from a qualified immigration consultant or lawyer to navigate through the process.