Can I Sponsor Spouse While Receiving Ontario Disability Support

[Ramanpreet]

I am taking income benefits through Ontario Disability Support program. Recently, I got married and want to sponsor my husband from India. I have no employment at present. Am I eligible to sponsor my husband? Who will pay the fee? Can ODSP will pay the fee for sponsorship or I will have to pay?

[Bavneet (Admin)]

You can sponsor your husband because you do not receive any social assistance other than for reason of disability. ODSP is social assistance based on disability. You still have to sign the undertaking to provide the basic means to your husband. This obligation will kick in only when your husband becomes a Canadian permanent resident and will last for three years. You will be in default if your husband receives social assistance, even if for reason of a disability, during this period of three years.

The sponsorship related fees will not be covered by ODSP. You have to arrange that expense by your own. The fee for sponsorship would be approximately $1,135. Other expenses would be fess related to medical examination, fingerprints, and police clearance certificates etc. Moreover, If you will retain the services of a professional, there will be additional charges which vary from one service provider to another.