In a significant update for family reunification, the Canadian government has raised the number of applications it will process under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). This initiative aims to strengthen family ties by allowing more parents and grandparents to join their loved ones in Canada.
For 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will accept up to 25,000 applications under the PGP. This is a substantial increase compared to the earlier plan, which capped applications at 15,000 for the year.
Apply to Sponsor Your Family Members
The announcement brings good news to many Canadian citizens and permanent residents who have been waiting for an opportunity to reunite with their parents and grandparents. Those who submitted interest-to-sponsor forms during the 2020 intake, but have not yet received an invitation, will have another chance when the intake opens this year.
Successful applicants will gain permanent residence for their parents and grandparents, giving them the right to live, work, and access healthcare in Canada.
Details on the Updated Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)
The PGP is a popular pathway for family reunification in Canada. However, due to high demand and limited spots, the program has historically used a lottery system to select potential sponsors. This method ensures a fair process but has left many hopeful applicants waiting.
To address this, the federal government has gradually increased the intake cap. In 2020, IRCC opened the PGP for intake and accepted interest-to-sponsor forms. Since then, invitations have been drawn from this pool. The latest announcement aims to expand opportunities for those waiting in line.
Why the PGP Matters
The PGP plays a critical role in Canada’s immigration framework, offering permanent residence to parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. This program provides a pathway for families to live together and support one another, which is essential for emotional and financial stability.
Key Changes in the Program
In early 2025, the government initially announced that no new PGP applications would be accepted. However, after reassessing immigration targets, they decided to expand the intake. The current intake of 25,000 applications includes a mix of those who applied in 2024 and new applicants from 2025.
Additional Immigration Options for Parents and Grandparents: The Super Visa
For those who may not be selected under the PGP, Canada also offers the Super Visa program. This is an alternative for parents and grandparents to visit Canada for extended periods without permanent residence status.
Under the Super Visa program:
- Eligible parents and grandparents can stay in Canada for up to five years at a time.
- The Super Visa is valid for up to 10 years.
- Visitors can apply for extensions of up to two years.
- Applicants must purchase private health insurance for the duration of their stay.
Without the Super Visa, most visitors to Canada can only stay for six months at a time.
Who Can Apply for the Super Visa?
Eligible sponsors must be Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or registered Indians. Sponsors must demonstrate that they can financially support their parents or grandparents and meet the required income threshold.
The Super Visa is designed to provide flexibility for families who want to stay connected but may not qualify for permanent residence under the PGP.
How to Apply for the PGP
If you submitted an interest-to-sponsor form during the 2020 intake, you might receive an invitation to apply when the new intake period opens. If selected, follow the steps outlined by IRCC to complete your sponsorship application.
For those looking to explore alternative pathways or check their eligibility for the PGP or Super Visa, consider scheduling a free immigration consultation.
Why This Expansion Matters
Canada’s decision to increase the intake for the PGP reflects its commitment to family reunification. By allowing more parents and grandparents to gain permanent residence, the government is fostering stronger community ties and supporting the well-being of families across the country.
This update also aligns with broader immigration goals outlined in Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan, which aims to balance economic, family, and humanitarian immigration categories.
For more information on family sponsorship programs, eligibility criteria, or other immigration options, visit The Immigration Professional.
