The Employer Nomination Scheme (Subclass 186) Visa grants permanent residency to skilled workers who have been nominated by an Australian employer. It is designed for individuals with relevant skills and experience in an eligible occupation, allowing them to live and work in Australia permanently.

Key Benefits

✅ Permanent Residency: Live, work, and study in Australia indefinitely.
✅ Pathway to Citizenship: Eligible to apply for Australian citizenship if requirements are met.
✅ Work and Study Freedom: Work in your nominated occupation and access Australia’s public healthcare system (Medicare).
✅ Family Inclusion: You can include your partner and dependent children in the visa application.

Subclass 186 Visa Streams

1️⃣ Temporary Residence Transition (TRT) Stream:
✔ For those who have worked with their nominating Australian employer for at least two years on a Subclass 482 or 457 Visa.
✔ Applicants must meet skill, character, and health requirements.
✔ Employer must offer a permanent, full-time job in an eligible occupation.
✔ Age Limit: Applicants must be under 45 years old (exceptions apply).

2️⃣ Direct Entry Stream:
✔ For skilled workers who have never worked in Australia or have limited Australian work experience.
✔ Requires employer nomination for a permanent position in an eligible occupation.
✔ At least three years of relevant work experience required.
✔ A skills assessment may be required for certain occupations.
✔ Higher English language proficiency is generally required.

3️⃣ Labour Agreement Stream:
✔ Available for skilled workers nominated under a labour agreement between an Australian employer and the government.
✔ Provides permanent residency to workers who meet the eligibility requirements.

Application Process for Subclass 186 Visa

1️⃣ Employer Nomination: Obtain a job offer and nomination from an approved Australian employer.
2️⃣ Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect if required.
3️⃣ Visa Application: Once nominated, submit your visa application with the necessary supporting documents.
4️⃣ Visa Outcome: If approved, you will be granted permanent residency in Australia.

Comparison: Subclass 186 vs. Other Work Visas

The Skilled Nominated Visa (Subclass 190) is a permanent residency visa for skilled workers who have been nominated by an Australian state or territory. It allows the holder to live, work, and study anywhere in Australia while providing a pathway to Australian citizenship.

Key Benefits

✅ Permanent Residency: Live, work, and study indefinitely in Australia.
✅ State Nomination Advantage: Gain extra points for state nomination, increasing visa approval chances.
✅ Access to Medicare & Social Services: Enjoy Medicare benefits and other social services.
✅ Pathway to Citizenship: Eligible to apply for Australian citizenship after meeting residency requirements.
✅ Sponsor Family Members: Support eligible family members to join you in Australia.

Eligibility Criteria

✔ Occupation Must Be on the Skilled Occupation List: Your profession must be listed on the relevant state/territory occupation list.
✔ State/Territory Nomination: You must be nominated by an Australian state or territory before applying.
✔ Expression of Interest (EOI): Submit an EOI through SkillSelect and receive an invitation to apply.
✔ Points-Based System: Must score at least 65 points (higher scores improve chances).
✔ Age Requirement: Must be under 45 years old at the time of invitation.
✔ English Proficiency: Must meet minimum English language requirements.
✔ Health & Character Requirements: Must pass medical checks and police clearance.

Application Process

1️⃣ Check Your Occupation: Ensure your occupation is on the relevant state or territory occupation list.
2️⃣ Submit an Expression of Interest (EOI): Lodge an EOI through SkillSelect and wait for an invitation to apply.
3️⃣ Get Nominated by a State/Territory: Apply for nomination based on the criteria set by each state or territory.
4️⃣ Submit Your Visa Application: Once you receive an invitation, submit your visa application along with required documents.
5️⃣ Wait for Approval: If granted, you can live, work, and study in Australia permanently.
6️⃣ Apply for Citizenship: If eligible, you may apply for Australian citizenship after meeting the residency requirements.

Points Allocation for Subclass 190

A minimum of 65 points is required, but higher scores improve the chances of receiving an invitation.

Comparison: Subclass 190 vs. Other Skilled Visas

The Training Visa (Subclass 407) allows individuals to undertake workplace-based training or professional development in Australia. This visa is designed for those who need to enhance their skills in an eligible occupation, gain practical experience, or participate in structured training programs.

Key Benefits

✅ Hands-On Experience: Engage in structured workplace-based training.
✅ Stay Duration: Allows a stay of up to 2 years.
✅ Various Training Categories: Covers occupational training, professional development, and capacity-building programs.
✅ Family Inclusion: Applicants can include spouses and dependent children in their visa application.

Eligibility Criteria

✔ Sponsorship Required: Applicants must be sponsored by an approved Australian organization.
✔ Nominated Training Position: The sponsor must nominate or invite the applicant for structured training.
✔ English Language Skills: The applicant must meet minimum English proficiency requirements.
✔ Health & Character Requirements: A medical check and background verification are necessary.
✔ Health Insurance: Applicants must have appropriate health insurance for the duration of their stay.

Training Visa Categories

1️⃣ Occupational Training – Registration Requirement
For individuals who need on-the-job training to gain professional registration or licensing.

2️⃣ Occupational Training – Skills Enhancement
For individuals looking to improve their skills in a particular occupation through structured workplace training.

3️⃣ Professional Development Training
For overseas professionals participating in formal professional training programs conducted in Australia.

Comparison: Training Visa (Subclass 407) vs. Other Work Visas

1. Student Visa (Subclass 500)

The Student Visa (Subclass 500) enables international students to study full-time in Australia while also allowing limited work opportunities.

Key Features

✅ Stay Duration: Valid for up to 5 years, depending on course length.
✅ Work Rights: Permits up to 48 hours per fortnight during the academic term and unlimited hours during scheduled breaks.
✅ Family Inclusion: Applicants can include their spouse and children in their visa application.
✅ Wide Range of Study Options: Covers primary, secondary, vocational, higher education, and postgraduate research programs.
✅ Pathway to Residency: Graduates may qualify for post-study work visas or permanent residency.

Eligibility Requirements

• Must be enrolled in a full-time course at a registered Australian institution.
• Provide evidence of financial capacity to cover tuition, living expenses, and travel costs.
• Meet English language proficiency requirements.
• Obtain Overseas Student Health Cover (OSHC).
• Satisfy health and character requirements.
  

  Application Process

  1. Obtain a Confirmation of Enrollment (CoE) from an approved Australian institution.
  2. Prepare Required Documents, including proof of financial support and English proficiency.
  3. Submit an Online Application via the Department of Home Affairs website.
  4. Await Processing, which varies based on course type.
  5. Receive Visa and Travel to Australia once approved.

  2. Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)

  The Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590) allows a parent, legal guardian, or relative to accompany and support an international student under 18 years old (or older in exceptional cases).

  Key Features

  ✅ Stay Duration: Matches the student’s visa duration.
  ✅ Guardian Role: Ensures the well-being and care of the student while in Australia.
  ✅ Work Limitations: No work rights included.
  ✅ Study Allowance: Can study an English course for up to 20 hours per week.
  ✅ Single Guardian Policy: Only one guardian per student can be granted this visa.

  Eligibility Requirements

  • Must be a parent, legal guardian, or relative of the student.
  • Must demonstrate financial capability to support both themselves and the student.
  • Must meet health and character requirements.
  • Must maintain adequate health insurance while in Australia.
    

    Application Process

    1. Gather Required Documents, including proof of relationship with the student.
    2. Apply Online through the Department of Home Affairs website.
    3. Await Processing, which varies by case.
    4. Receive Visa and Accompany the Student to Australia.
       

       Comparison: Student Visa (Subclass 500) vs. Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)

       Feature	Student Visa (Subclass 500)	Student Guardian Visa (Subclass 590)
       Purpose	Study full-time in Australia	Provide care for an underage international student
       Who Can Apply	Students enrolled in an approved course	Parent, legal guardian, or relative of the student
       Stay Duration	Up to 5 years (varies by course)	Same as the student’s visa
       Work Rights	Up to 48 hours per fortnight (during study)	No work rights
       Study Rights	Full-time study	Part-time English courses (up to 20 hours per week)
       Family Inclusion	Spouse & children can be included	No dependents allowed
       Financial Requirement	Must show funds for tuition and living costs	Must show funds to support both self and student

Start-Up Visa (For Entrepreneurs)

• Intended for entrepreneurs with innovative business ideas who can secure investment from designated Canadian investors.

Introduction

One of the most meaningful aspects of Canada’s immigration system is its strong focus on family reunification. Through the Family Sponsorship program, Canadian citizens and permanent residents can bring their loved ones to Canada and help them become permanent residents.

Whether you’re looking into spousal sponsorship, sponsoring dependent children, or exploring the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), this guide covers everything you need to know.

What is Family Sponsorship in Canada?

Family Sponsorship is an immigration pathway managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It allows eligible sponsors to commit to supporting their relatives financially, so they can settle in Canada without relying on government assistance.

When approved, the sponsored person receives Canadian Permanent Residency (PR), which includes:

The right to live, work, and study in Canada.

Access to healthcare and most social benefits.

A direct path toward Canadian citizenship.

Who Can You Sponsor in Canada?

Canada’s Family Sponsorship program is designed for close family members. The following categories are eligible:

1. Spouse, Common-Law Partner, or Conjugal Partner

Must be at least 18 years old.

Relationship must be genuine (not solely for immigration).

Two sponsorship options:

Inland Sponsorship → If your spouse/partner is already living in Canada.

Outland Sponsorship → If your spouse/partner lives outside Canada.

Processing time: about 12 months.

Fees: from CAD $1,050.

2. Dependent Children

Must be under 22 years old and unmarried.

Children 22 or older may qualify if financially dependent due to a disability.

Processing time: about 12 months.

Fees: around CAD $150 per child, plus biometrics/medical exams.

3. Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship (PGP)

Managed through a lottery system each year.

If selected, you can submit a full sponsorship application.

Sponsors must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the past 3 years.

Undertaking period: 20 years (you are financially responsible for them).

Alternative: If not selected in the lottery, apply for a Super Visa, which allows long stays of up to 5 years at a time.

4. Other Relatives (rare cases)

Orphaned brothers, sisters, nephews, nieces, or grandchildren under 18 (not married or in a relationship).

In some situations, if you have no close family in Canada, you can sponsor one extended relative.

Eligibility Requirements for Sponsors

To sponsor a family member, you must:

Be 18 years or older.

Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.

Live in Canada (citizens abroad must show proof of returning).

Meet income requirements for certain categories (e.g., parents/grandparents).

Sign an undertaking agreement promising financial support.

You cannot sponsor if you:

Are bankrupt or receiving social assistance (except disability).

Have defaulted on previous sponsorship undertakings.

Are in prison or convicted of certain crimes.

Financial Undertaking Period

When you sponsor someone, you are legally responsible for their basic needs: food, shelter, and healthcare not covered by public health.

The commitment period depends on who you sponsor:

Spouse/Partner → 3 years.

Dependent Child → 10 years or until the child turns 22.

Parents/Grandparents → 20 years.

Other Relatives → 10 years.

How to Apply for Family Sponsorship in Canada

Here’s a step-by-step overview of the Family Sponsorship application process:

Check Eligibility – Confirm that both sponsor and applicant meet IRCC requirements.

Gather Documents – Proof of relationship, IDs, financial documents, marriage/birth certificates.

Complete Online Application – Available on the IRCC website.

Pay Fees – Sponsorship fee, processing fee, and biometrics fee.

Submit Application – Upload documents and submit through IRCC’s digital portal.

Medical & Biometrics – Sponsored family member must complete exams.

Wait for Processing – IRCC reviews application (varies by category).

Receive Decision – If approved, family member becomes a Canadian PR.

Processing Times and Fees (2025)
Sponsorship Category Processing Time Fees (approx.)
Spousal Sponsorship ~12 months CAD $1,050+
Dependent Child Sponsorship ~12 months CAD $150+
Parent/Grandparent Sponsorship Several years CAD $1,050+ per parent
Other Relatives Case-specific CAD $1,050+

Additional costs may include:

Biometrics fee: CAD $85 per person.

Medical exam: CAD $200–$300 (varies by country).

Police clearance: Depends on the applicant’s country.

Benefits of Family Sponsorship in Canada

Keep families together in Canada.

Sponsored family member gets permanent residency.

Access to universal healthcare and public education.

The right to work and study anywhere in Canada.

Pathway to Canadian citizenship after 3 years of PR.

Tips for a Successful Sponsorship Application

Provide strong proof of relationship (photos, joint accounts, communication history for spousal sponsorship).

Ensure financial documents are accurate and up-to-date.

Double-check that forms are complete before submission.

Respond quickly to IRCC requests for additional documents.

Consider professional help if your case is complex (e.g., previous refusals).

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1. How long does family sponsorship take in Canada?
Spousal and child sponsorship applications usually take 12 months, while parent/grandparent sponsorship can take several years.

Q2. Can I sponsor my brother or sister to Canada?
Only in rare cases (if they are orphaned, under 18, and unmarried), or if you have no other relatives in Canada.

Q3. What is the cost of spousal sponsorship in Canada?
The government fee is around $1,050 CAD, plus biometrics, medical exams, and document costs.

Q4. What happens if I divorce my sponsored spouse?
You remain financially responsible for them during the 3-year undertaking period, even if the relationship ends.

Q5. Can a permanent resident sponsor a family member while living outside Canada?
No. Permanent residents must live in Canada. Only Canadian citizens can sponsor while abroad, and they must show intent to return.

Conclusion

The Family Sponsorship Canada program is one of the most compassionate immigration options, designed to reunite families and strengthen communities. Whether you are applying for spousal sponsorship, dependent child sponsorship, or the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP), careful preparation is the key to success.

By meeting the eligibility criteria, submitting strong documents, and understanding the processing times and financial responsibilities, you can successfully bring your loved ones to Canada and help them build a future here.

Manali

The town that you and I know as `Manali ‘ is actually a collection of three adjacent hills. Each hill has a village and an old temple dominating it. In the beginning was the village. People grew , and still grow, wheat rajma ,vegetables and apples. They kept and  still do cows buffaloes and goat  and sheep. The people weave their  own clothes. The wheat was ready for harvest in spring, the apple would be ready for plucking by August –September, and the snow ripe for falling by December-january. The British never made a hill station here, never laid rail tracks or built a Mall Road.

Indian travellers come more for the temples, snow in Rohtang Pass and organized adventure acivities. Internet cafes offer bus services to Leh , tour operators offer opportunities to go paragliding in Solang Nallah or river rafting on the Beas .

Most importantly Manali offers that haunting Himalayan beauty to which hill stations in the lower Himalayan ranges can only aspire. Look around and there’s the river made of freshly melted snow, and protected stretches of deodar. Look up and the majestic Pir Panjal and Bara Bhangal ranges cradling the town mesmerize you.

THINGS TO SEE AND DO
Solang  Valley

Solang Nallah (or Solang Valley)is a beautiful green strench 13 km from Manali, where most of the area’s adventure activity is centered. Paragliding Zorbing and horse riding are the popular picnic activites here.Its  a popular picnic spot, but also has plenty of getaway space for those willing to walk a bit extra. Travellers can make a day trip there by bus , or taxi or car from Manli or even camp overnight.

KULLU

Kullu Valley, short for the ancient Kulanthapitha, ‘the end of the habitable world’,  stretches from Rohtang  Pass to Jalori Pass, the name recalling how the wind -blown Rohtang  seperates this lush valley carved  by the river Beas from the barren Trans- Himalayan Lahaul and Ladakh.

Raghunathji  Temple

The temple of pre-eminent lord of the valley. The idol of Raghunathji was brought here in 1660 by a Kulla  raja from the Tretnath Temple at Ayodhya .

Kullu Dussehra

Every Dussehra some 200 of Kullu’s local gods are carried in spectacular ceremonial processions from villages all over the valley to the maiden in Kullu town .

Bijli  Mahadev Temple

The 10 km treck from Kullu to Lord Shiva’s shrine is a stiff but pleasant walk through forets of pine oak and deodar, passing throughvillages their rooftops a riot of color wiyh maize or chillies drying .

For Shopping

Kullu is famous for it handlooms ask the locals and avoid shops wich sells machine made Ludhiana products.Look for shawls, sweaters, socks,gloves and the Kullu topi. Try Bhuttico ,Himachal Handicrafts and Himachal Khadi Emporium in Akhara Bazaar.

Jammu , Kashmir and Ladakh’ is a better way to understand this stuningly beautiful state. Hosting the most diverse of landscapes,J&K has plains and foothills in Jammu, lush high-altitude and meadows in Kashmir and the very high. Cold desert of Ladakh. which is snowed under for half the year. The majority faiths are Hinduism Islam and Buddhism respectively.

Srinagar

Location- State Capital Srinagar lies by the Jhelum River, and  the Dal and Nagin lakes at 5214 ft in the western Kashmir Valley, with the Zaberwan Hills in the backdrop

Distance 293 km  N of Jammu,400km NW of Pathankot, 512 km NE of Amritsar.

Tourists Attractions

Shalimar Garden, Nishat Bagh are one of the places to be visit in Srinagar.

Dal Lake

Dal is the most famous of Srinagar’s attractions. Most tourism oreinted activites on the lake happen near the DalGate. Tourists can take a shikara ride on colorful high backed seats buy flower s from floating shops get yourself clicked, in kikitsch Kashmiri dresses ,see the floating vegetable market at dawn, visit Hazratbal, and traverse the smaller and quieter Nagin lake and the old Pundit quarter of Rainwari.

Jammu

Jammu is the winter capital of the state Jammu and Kashmir as it was of the Dogra rulers earlier. Since 1872 in  a move even today called the shifting of the Durbar, the administration has been physically shifting between the two cities, with thousands of employees and hundreds of truck laden with files moving to Jammu in NOVEMBER for the winter and back to Srinagar in May.