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Sponsorship Options

1. Group of Five (G5)
   A Group of Five is made up of at least five Canadian citizens or permanent residents who come together to sponsor a refugee or refugee family. Key requirements include:

   • Demonstrating financial ability to support the refugee(s).

   • Submitting a detailed settlement plan to ensure a smooth transition for the refugees to life in Canada.

2. Community Sponsors​

   • Provide a strong settlement plan that outlines how they will assist refugees in integrating into Canadian society.

3. Prove they have the necessary resources to support the refugees.

4. Community Sponsors include organizations such as businesses, faith-based groups, or other associations that are committed to sponsoring refugees. These groups must:

5. Sponsorship Agreement Holders (SAHs)
   SAHs are large organizations that have a formal agreement with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). They:

   • Directly sponsor refugees or work with smaller constituent groups to provide support.

   • Play a key role in ensuring that refugees receive the necessary resources and guidance during their settlement process.

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Eligibility Requirements

For Sponsors:

1. Individuals must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents.

2. Groups and organizations must demonstrate that they have the financial and settlement resources to support refugees.

3. A clear and actionable settlement plan is mandatory for all sponsorships.

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For Refugees:

Refugees must belong to one of the following classes:

1. Convention Refugee Abroad Class or

2. Country of Asylum Class

They must be outside their home country and unable to return due to fear of persecution, conflict, or violence.​

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Common Reasons for Refusal

Refugee sponsorship applications may be refused for the following reasons:

1. Failing to meet the minimum income requirement.

2. Submitting incorrect or outdated forms.

3. Ineligible family relationships.

4. Inadmissibility of the applicant(s) to Canada.