Meeting the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship: Key to Success

Many Immigrants have the heartfelt goal of sponsoring parents or grandparents to come to Canada, with an aim to reunite with their families and provide their loved ones. However, the success of this sponsorship depends on meeting the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) requirement set by IRCC. As Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants at Connect Overseas Immigration Services Inc., we understand the complexities of the MNI and offer the required guidance from our expertise to ensure you meet the criteria.

Understanding the MNI Requirement

A Sponsors must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI), the income threshold set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to qualify for the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program. The MNI varies based on the number of family members the sponsor is financially responsible for, including those they wish to sponsor.

Key Points About the MNI:

– Income Thresholds: The required income levels are outlined in the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) plus 30%. These amounts are updated annually.

– Three-Year Income Proof: Sponsors must demonstrate that they have met the MNI for each of the three consecutive years preceding their application. For the 2024 intake, this means proving income for the tax years 2023, 2022, and 2021.

– Valid Income Sources: Only certain income sources are considered valid, including employment earnings, investment income, and other taxable income. Notably, special considerations were made for the 2021 tax year due to the COVID-19 pandemic.

Family Size and Income Requirements

Here’s a breakdown of the MNI for different family sizes for the past three tax years:

Sponsors and co-signers required to submit Notices of Assessment issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for these three years. Another useful and easiest way to prove your income is to give IRCC permission to obtain your Notices of Assessment directly from the CRA.

Special Considerations for the 2021 Tax Year

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected people’s financials, So, the income requirement for the 2021 tax year was reduced by IRCC, instead of the usual MNI plus 30%. Certain temporary benefits, such as the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB) and regular Employment Insurance benefits, could also be considered by sponsors and co-signers to meet the MNI for this particular year.

Quebec Residents

Residents of Quebec should refer to MIFI’s Financial Capacity Evaluation webpage for specific sponsorship requirements in Quebec.

Why Meeting the MNI is Crucial

It is not just a legislative requirement; it proves your ability to financially support your parents or grandparents in Canada. This benchmark is used by IRCC to ensure that sponsored family members do not become a burden on the Canadian social welfare system.

Consequences of Failing to Meet the MNI:

– Application Rejection: Applications that do not meet the MNI requirement are typically denied.

– Increased Processing Time: Missing documents or inadequate proof of income can lead to delays and additional requests for information.

– Emotional Impact: The emotional strain of a denied application can be significant, both for sponsors and their families.

Case Studies: Clients Who Came to Us Facing Challenges in Meeting the MNI

Over the years, Immigration Consultant Regina have encountered many clients who initially failed to meet the MNI requirement and sought our help to rectify their situations. Here are a few illustrative examples:

Case Study 1: Jatinder’s Journey

Jatinder, an IT professional, came to us distressed for not meeting the required MNI, after receiving his invitation to apply sponsorship application. He had overlooked fluctuating freelance income that, although substantial, was not well-documented.

Our Recommendation:

– Organize Financial Documents: We helped Jatinder compile and organize all necessary financial documents, ensuring his freelance income was clearly documented.

– Supplemental Income Proof: Advised Jatinder to secure additional employment income to solidify his financial standing.

Case Study 2: Marileana’s Determination

Marileana, a retail manager, faced challenges meeting the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) after losing a job unexpectedly during a crucial period. Her initial application did not satisfy legislative requirements, causing uncertainty and stress for her family. We conducted a thorough review of Marileana’s application to identify shortcomings and areas for improvement.

Our Recommendation:

– Detailed Review and Employment stability: We addressed all necessary criteria, including a strong emphasis on humanitarian and compassionate grounds and advised to keep maintaining the MNI in future.

– Inclusion of Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds: Highlighted Marileana’s specific circumstances that justify an exemption or special consideration under humanitarian and compassionate grounds, provided compelling evidence and documentation to support these grounds, emphasizing the impact on Marileana and her family.

– Ensuring Right to Appeal: Ensured that Marileana is aware of her right to appeal any decision if her application is initially refused. Provided guidance and offered assistance in preparing a strong case for reconsideration.

Case Study 3: Aliza’s Success

Aliza, a small business owner, was unsure how to accurately report the income from her business. Her application lacked clarity, and she received a Procedural Fairness Letter (PFL), which caused her significant stress.

Our Recommendation:

– Professional Accounting Assistance: We connected Aliza with a professional accountant to ensure her income from her business was accurately reported and well-documented.

– Detailed Financial Records: Helped Aliza maintain detailed financial records, which were crucial for her application.

How Immigration Consultants Regina Can Help You Stay Updated Regarding the Required MNI Levels

Our Immigration Agency help clients stay updated on required Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) levels by providing comprehensive financial assessments, strategic planning, detailed documentation support, and long-term guidance. We begin by evaluating your financial situation to ensure you meet current MNI requirements. If there’s a shortfall, they examine existing income sources and suggest eligible income to meet the MNI throughout. Additionally, we assist in organizing necessary documentation for clear and convincing proof of income to the IRCC. Our support also includes long-term planning advice to maintain consistency for future successful applications.

Immigration Agent Help You Explore Alternative Options:

We help our clients explore alternative avenues or programs that they might qualify for, considering their circumstances and the specific requirements of different immigration or assistance programs.

By following these recommendations, we aim to improve our client’s chances of obtaining a favorable outcome for their application, thereby alleviating the stress and uncertainty faced by their families.

Why Contact Us

Meeting the MNI is a pivotal step in the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship process. It requires careful planning, accurate documentation, and sometimes, strategic adjustments to your financial situation. At Connect Overseas Immigration Services Inc., we are committed to guiding you through this complex process with expertise and compassion, ensuring your family reunification dreams become a reality.

Contact us today for personalized advice and assistance in preparing detailed explanations and needed documentation to support your application and successfully sponsoring your loved ones to Canada.