Parents and Grandparents Program Application Opens Soon!

Canadian Parents and Grandparents Program: New Opportunities for Family Reunification

Starting July 28, 2025, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will have a unique opportunity to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency through the revamped Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). Over a two-week period, the federal government plans to issue 17,860 invitations, aiming to accept 10,000 completed applications this year.

Key Details of the Invitation Process

The invitations will be sent exclusively to individuals who submitted an interest to sponsor form in 2020. This lottery-style approach is a response to the high demand for the program, which has historically seen more applicants than available spots. It’s worth noting that individuals who do not receive an invitation can still consider the super visa program, which allows for extended visitor status of up to 10 years.

Understanding the Parents and Grandparents Program

The PGP serves as an essential pathway for family reunification in Canada. Eligible sponsors include Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and registered Indians who wish to bring their parents or grandparents into the country. Since the program has not reopened for submissions since 2020, the current invitation round is critical for many families hoping to secure permanent residency for their loved ones.

The Super Visa: An Alternative Option

For those who may not be selected in the lottery, the super visa remains a viable alternative. This program allows Canadians to host their parents or grandparents for extended periods, significantly longer than standard visitor visas, which typically last only six months. To qualify, applicants must obtain adequate health insurance and meet specific income requirements to ensure they can support their visiting relatives.

Analysis: A Balancing Act Between Demand and Capacity

The PGP’s lottery system reflects the Canadian government’s struggle to balance the overwhelming demand for family reunification against the capacity limits of the immigration system. By limiting the number of invitations, the government can manage the application process more effectively, albeit at the cost of leaving many hopeful sponsors in limbo.

This dual approach—offering both the PGP and the super visa—demonstrates a flexible immigration strategy, allowing families to maintain connections even if permanent residency isn’t immediately attainable. However, the lack of new intake for interest to sponsor forms since 2020 raises questions about the program’s long-term viability and the government’s commitment to facilitating family reunification.

Final Thoughts

As Canada prepares to issue these invitations, families are left to navigate their options carefully. The upcoming lottery presents a beacon of hope for many, while the super visa program continues to serve as an essential tool for maintaining family ties over the long term. For those invested in the future of family reunification in Canada, staying informed about these developments is crucial. The government’s ongoing policies in this area will significantly influence the landscape of immigration and family dynamics in the coming years.