Canada once again gives families a chance to reunite through its revamped Parents and Grandparents Program. Starting July 28, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will begin sending invitations to eligible Canadians who want to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency.
This highly anticipated update will affect thousands of families who submitted their interest forms years ago. Canada's family reunification strategy hinges largely on this major program, allowing eligible sponsors to sponsor loved ones for permanent residence. High demand coupled with scarce availability spawns a lottery-style invitation process, making each slot a coveted and crucial chance for applicants.
What’s New for 2025?
- The IRCC will send 17,860 invitations to potential sponsors.
- The goal is to accept 10,000 complete applications.
- The intake will run for two weeks starting July 28, 2025.
- Only those who submitted an “Interest to Sponsor” form in 2020 will be considered.
About the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)
The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is designed to allow Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for Canadian permanent residency.
Key Features of the PGP:
- Offers permanent residency to eligible family members.
- Focused on family reunification.
- Applicants must receive an invitation before applying.
- Only sponsors from the 2020 pool will be eligible for this round.
Requirements for Sponsoring Under the PGP
To sponsor under the Parents and Grandparents Program, you must meet the following requirements:
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Residency Status | Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a registered Indian under Canadian law |
| 2020 Submission | Must have submitted an Interest to Sponsor form in 2020 |
| Invitation to Apply | Can only apply after receiving an official invitation |
| Income Requirement | Must meet Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for family size |
| Support Commitment | Must financially support the sponsored family for 20 years |
What if You Don’t Get Invited?
Don’t worry. If you’re not among the lucky ones who receive an invitation under the Parents and Grandparents Program, you still have another option — the Super Visa.
What Is the Super Visa?
The Super Visa is an alternative route for family reunification. It allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada for extended periods, without becoming permanent residents.
Benefits of the Super Visa:
- Valid for up to 10 years
- Allows multiple entries
- Stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time
- Much longer stay period than the regular 6-month visitor visa
Eligibility Criteria for the Super Visa:
| Eligibility Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Relationship | Must be a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or PR |
| Medical Insurance | Must have private Canadian medical insurance coverage |
| Admissibility | Must be admissible to Canada |
| Financial Support | Sponsor must meet minimum income and provide a written promise of support |
Comparison: PGP vs. Super Visa
| Feature | Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) | Super Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Residency Status | Permanent Resident | Visitor (temporary) |
| Stay Duration | Indefinite (PR) | Up to 5 years per visit |
| Application Pool | Lottery-based (2020 forms only) | No lottery |
| Health Insurance | Not required | Mandatory private insurance |
| Processing Time | Several months | Typically quicker |
How Visa Solutions 4u Can Help
Visa Solutions 4u enjoys a reputation as a trustworthy name in Canadian immigration services. The following is the list of services they offer:
- Application assistance:
- Eligibility check:
- Document assistance:
- Super visa assistance:
- Up-to-date information:
Preparing and reviewing your PGP or Super Visa application together before it is submitted.
Check if you meet the income and residency requirements, or else the minimum requirement.
Guide you so that all documents are error-free and complete.
Help organize the stipulations of medical insurance and a letter of support for the Super Visa.
Updating ongoing changes of the latest immigration laws and regulations of IRCC.
Contact Visa Solutions 4u for personalized, step-by-step assistance in bringing the rest of your family closer to you in Canada.
Conclusion
Canada's 2025 Parents and Grandparents Program intake is a much-awaited chance for families to reunite. With 17,860 invitations being issued, it’s crucial to stay informed and prepared. If you miss out, the Super Visa is a great alternative for long-term visits. Whether you apply for the PGP or Super Visa, make sure your documents, finances, and eligibility align with the program’s criteria. Stay connected, stay informed, and bring your loved ones home — because family matters.
