#6. Family Sponsorship: Parents and Grandparents

The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is an exceptional opportunity for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residence in Canada. This program, part of Canada’s family reunification efforts, allows families to come together and live in Canada.

Through the PGP, eligible sponsors can submit an interest-to-sponsor form during designated intake periods. From there, potential sponsors are chosen via a random draw, and selected individuals are invited to submit a full sponsorship application. Sponsors must meet specific criteria, including agreeing to financially support their parents or grandparents once they become permanent residents of Canada.

Sponsored parents or grandparents are also required to meet certain criteria, including medical exams and security checks. Upon approval, they will receive permanent residence, paving the way to eventual Canadian citizenship.

 

Who Can Sponsor Their Parents or Grandparents in Canada?

To be eligible to sponsor parents or grandparents under the PGP, sponsors must meet these requirements:

1. Age and Residency

• The sponsor must be at least 18 years old.
• Permanent residents must be living in Canada at the time of application.

2. Financial Eligibility

• The sponsor must meet Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) requirements to prove they can financially support their parents or grandparents.
• MNI levels are updated annually by the Canadian government.

3. Agreement to Support

• Sponsors must sign a sponsorship agreement with the Canadian government, committing to financially support their parents or grandparents for a specified period.
• The agreement includes repaying any social assistance received by the sponsored individuals during the sponsorship period.

 

Ongoing Obligations for PGP Sponsors

If you sponsor parents or grandparents under the PGP, you must sign an undertaking with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This legally binds you to financially support your sponsored family members for 20 years (or 10 years if residing in Quebec) after they become permanent residents.

This includes covering their basic needs, such as food, clothing, and housing. You are also required to repay any social assistance your sponsored family members receive during this period.

 

Income Requirements for PGP Sponsorship

Sponsors must demonstrate sufficient income for the last three tax years to qualify for the PGP. For 2025 applications, IRCC will evaluate your income for 2022, 2023, and 2024. If your spouse or common-law partner is a co-signer, their income can be combined with yours to meet the MNI.

You can find the minimum income requirements for the PGP here.

 

Can My Spouse or Partner Co-Sponsor?

Yes, your spouse or common-law partner can act as a co-signer on the application. Their income will be counted towards the required MNI, and they must also sign an undertaking to support your parents or grandparents.

 

Steps to Apply for the PGP

The process for applying for the PGP involves these steps:

1. Submit an Interest to Sponsor

• Fill out and submit an online Interest to Sponsor form during IRCC's specified intake period.

2. Random Selection Process

• After submissions close, IRCC randomly selects potential sponsors and invites them to apply.

3. Invitation to Apply

• If selected, you will receive an invitation with instructions on how to submit a complete application.

4. Submit Your Application

• Complete the application with all necessary documents (income proof, relationship documentation, etc.).

5. Application Review

• IRCC will review your application. If approved, your parents or grandparents can become Canadian permanent residents.

6. Medical and Security Checks

• Sponsored individuals must undergo medical and security assessments before approval.

 

Can My Parents or Grandparents Travel to Canada While Waiting for PGP Approval?

Yes, your parents and grandparents can visit Canada while their PGP application is in process through the Super Visa Program, which allows eligible individuals to stay in Canada for up to two years at a time.

 

How Long Does the PGP Process Take?

Processing times for the PGP vary, but current estimates range from 20 to 24 months.

 

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Sponsoring your parents or grandparents through the Parents and Grandparents Program is a rewarding way to reunite your family in Canada. Understanding the process, income requirements, and obligations will ensure a smooth application experience. If you’re ready to bring your loved ones to Canada, make sure to stay updated on the latest PGP intake periods and consult an immigration professional if needed.

If you need assistance with your application, contact our team at D&D Law and we'll walk you through it.

Until our next article, take care and stay amazing! 🍁

D&D Law