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Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship

Parents and Grandparents Program will accept no new applications in 2025

Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship

The Parents and Grandparents Program is an excellent opportunity for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with their loved ones. Through this program, you can sponsor your parents and grandparents to become permanent residents of Canada.

Key Information

Work Permit
  • Invitation-Based Process: Sponsors must submit an Interest to Sponsor form and receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from IRCC to proceed with the application.
  • Extended Sponsorship Responsibility: Sponsors commit to financially supporting their parents and grandparents for 20 years (10 years in Quebec).
  • Alternative Pathway: If not invited, the Super Visa offers a viable option for long-term visits.

Eligibility Requirements

For Sponsors:
  • Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
  • Meet or exceed the MNI (Minimum Income) requirements for family size, verified with Notices of Assessment (NOAs) from the Canada Revenue Agency for the last three consecutive years.
  • Submit a signed undertaking to financially support sponsored family members for 20 years (or 10 years in Quebec).
For Sponsored Parents or Grandparents:
  • Must pass medical examinations to rule out inadmissibility on health grounds.
  • Provide police clearance certificates from countries where they have lived for more than six months since turning 18.
  • Demonstrate genuine family relationship through supporting documents (e.g., birth certificates, passports).

Application Process

1. Submit an Interest to Sponsor Form

  • During the annual intake period, submit an Interest to Sponsor form on the IRCC website.
  • Only those invited to apply can proceed with the application.

2. Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)

If selected, you’ll receive an ITA from IRCC. This is based on a lottery system, so ensure all details in your Interest to Sponsor form are accurate.

3. Complete and Submit the Application

  • Complete the sponsorship and permanent residence applications.
  • Ensure all forms and supporting documents, such as proof of income and relationship, are included.
  • Submit the application online by the deadline mentioned in the ITA.
  • Be sure to check your spam folder regularly to avoid missing important emails and ensure you submit your application before the deadline.
  • Pay the applicable fees, which may include the sponsorship fee, processing fee, biometrics fee, and Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF).

4. Wait for Processing

  • Once the application is submitted, IRCC will review it for completeness, conduct background checks, and request biometrics.
  • The average processing time is approximately 20-24 months.

Tip

If your application’s file number starts with “XF,” it indicates that the application has not yet passed the eligibility check and may be on hold pending requested documents. Ensure that you provide all required documents and follow up promptly. Once the eligibility check is passed, the “X” is removed, and the file enters full processing. This is a critical point in the process, so exercise due diligence and consult with us if you need guidance at this stage.

6: Medical Exams and Police Certificates

Sponsored parents and grandparents must complete medical exams and provide police certificates from countries where they have lived for six months or more since the age of 18.

Tips for a Successful Application

Plan Ahead

Start preparing your application and gather supporting documents as soon as you submit your Interest to Sponsor form.

Proof of Income

Ensure you meet the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) for your family size for the past three years. Submit Notices of Assessment (NOAs) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).

Document Thoroughness

Include clear, complete, and accurate documentation to avoid delays or refusals.

Quebec-Specific Requirements

If residing in Quebec, complete an undertaking agreement with the province in addition to federal requirements.

Proof of Income

Income Required for the 3 Tax Years Before the Date You Apply (2024 Intake)
Family Size 20231 20221 20211
2 people $44,530 $43,082 $32,898
3 people $54,743 $52,965 $40,444
4 people $66,466 $64,306 $49,106
5 people $75,384 $72,935 $55,694
6 people $85,020 $82,259 $62,814
7 people $94,658 $91,582 $69,934
If more than 7 people, for each additional person, add: $9,636 (2023)
$9,324 (2022)
$7,120 (2021)

Key Considerations

Alternative Pathway: Super Visa

If you are not invited to apply under the PGP, consider applying for a Super Visa. This allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years per visit and is often processed faster.

Medical and Financial Responsibilities

Ensure your parents or grandparents pass the required medical exams and understand your commitment to support them financially for 20 years.

Incomplete Applications

Incomplete or incorrect applications will be returned, delaying the process. Use the IMM5771 checklist to ensure your application is complete.

Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship FAQs

Can I sponsor my in-laws under the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program?

Yes and No!! Read on though. The program only allows Canadian citizens or permanent residents to sponsor their biological or adoptive parents and grandparents. However, your spouse or common-law partner can sponsor their parents or grandparents if they meet the eligibility criteria. As the sponsor’s spouse or partner, you can act as a co-signer to combine your income to meet the financial requirements.

Can I sponsor my siblings or children of my parents?

Siblings or children of your parents can be included in the sponsorship application only if they meet the definition of a dependent child. This means they must:

  • Be under 22 years of age, and
  • Be financially dependent on their parents.
    Children who are married or in a common-law relationship are not considered dependents, regardless of their age.

Do I need to meet the income requirement if I’m only sponsoring one parent and leaving the other as non-accompanying?

Yes, you must meet the income requirement for the entire family unit, which includes both parents, even if only one parent is being sponsored and the other is non-accompanying. The non-accompanying parent must also undergo medical and police clearance checks. If either parent fails these checks or is found inadmissible, both applications could be refused.

Tip: Some situations can be complicated; contact us for professional guidance tailored to your case.

Can I sponsor both parents and grandparents together in one application?

No, you cannot sponsor both your parents and grandparents together in a single application. You need to decide whether to sponsor your parents or grandparents. If eligible, both parents can be included in a single application, but grandparents require a separate application.

What happens if one parent or grandparent fails the medical or police clearance checks?

If one parent or grandparent is found inadmissible due to failing medical or police clearance checks, their application and that of any accompanying applicant may be refused. It is crucial to ensure all applicants meet the requirements before submitting the sponsorship application.

Is it mandatory for my parents or grandparents to complete medical and police clearance checks?

Yes, completing medical and police clearance checks is mandatory for all sponsored parents or grandparents, including non-accompanying family members. This ensures they meet Canada’s admissibility requirements.

What is the processing time for the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program?

Processing times vary, but it typically takes 20-24 months from the date of submission. Factors like completeness of the application, medical exams, and background checks can impact the timeline.

What are my options if I don’t meet the income requirements?

If you don’t meet the income requirements, you cannot sponsor your parents or grandparents under this program. However, you may consider inviting them to Canada on a Super Visa or a Visitor  Visa, which allows extended temporary stays.

Get Expert Help with Your Parents & Grandparents Sponsorship Application

The Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program involves detailed eligibility checks and stringent income requirements. Even non-accompanying family members must meet admissibility criteria, including police and medical checks.
Contact SAAB Immigration Services Inc. for a free consultation to navigate complex situations and ensure your application is successful.

Visa Immigration Agent