Canada’s Immigration Department has announced that invitations to apply (ITAs) for the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) will be issued in 2025. This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency.
Although in January 2025, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) stated that no new invitations would be sent out this year, the recent update confirms that ITAs will indeed be sent out. These invitations will go to individuals who submitted an interest to sponsor form back in 2020.
IRCC did not specify when the invitations will be sent but promised more information in the coming months. The ITAs will be issued through a lottery system, with sponsors randomly selected from the pool of applicants.
Background on the Parents and Grandparents Program
The PGP is designed to reunite Canadian citizens and permanent residents with their parents and grandparents by allowing them to apply for permanent residency. To qualify, sponsors must meet minimum income requirements, and the applicants must be admissible to Canada.
Since 2020, the intake for the program has been closed, and all ITAs issued in recent years have been for applicants who expressed interest during the 2020 intake period.
Super Visa Program: An Alternative for Family Reunification
For Canadians who cannot sponsor their parents or grandparents under the PGP, the Super Visa provides an alternative. This visa allows parents and grandparents to visit Canada for extended periods, typically for up to five years at a time, with the option to extend their stay for another two years.
The Super Visa is valid for up to 10 years and grants multiple entries. To qualify, sponsors must meet income requirements, and the applicants must secure health insurance for the duration of their stay. Recent changes to the program have expanded options for purchasing health coverage, making it easier for foreign nationals to meet these requirements.
Navigating immigration programs such as the Parents and Grandparents Program or Super Visa can be complex. At Kingsbridge Immigration, we specialize in assisting families with their sponsorship applications, ensuring all requirements are met for a successful outcome. Our experienced team is here to provide expert guidance every step of the way, from preparing your application to meeting eligibility criteria.
Whether you’re looking to reunite with your parents or grandparents or need help exploring the Super Visa program, Kingsbridge Immigration is here to help make the process as smooth and efficient as possible.
Contact Kingsbridge Immigration today to learn how we can assist with your family sponsorship needs.