Immigration Announcement
Canada Parents and Grandparents Program – PGP Invitations Begin Today
Starting today, May 21st, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will begin sending invitations to apply (ITAs) for the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). This marks an exciting time for families hoping to reunite with their loved ones in Canada. Here’s everything you need to know about this year’s PGP invitations and how to navigate the application process.
A New Wave of Invitations: What You Need to Know
IRCC will be issuing 35,700 invitations over the next two weeks. This is part of their goal to approve 20,500 complete applications for permanent residence. ITAs will be sent to the email addresses provided by sponsors when they initially submitted their “Interest to Sponsor” forms.
Who is Eligible for a Canada PGP Invitation?
To be eligible for an invitation under the PGP this year, sponsors must meet the following criteria:
- Submitted an Interest to Sponsor form on IRCC’s website in 2020 without receiving an ITA in 2020, 2021, 2022, or 2023.
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident of Canada, or a registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
- Be 18 years of age or older.
- Reside in Canada and provide proof of status during the Interest to Sponsor phase.
- Exceed the minimum necessary income level for this program (if married or in a common-law relationship, the income of both the sponsor and spouse can be included) and provide proof of income to IRCC.
- Sign an undertaking to financially support the sponsored individuals for 20 years (10 years for applicants in Quebec), and repay any social assistance benefits paid to the sponsored family members, if applicable.
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What to Do After Receiving an ITA?
Once you receive an ITA, you must respond by submitting a complete application before the deadline specified in the invitation email. Here are the steps you should follow:
- Read the Complete Instruction Guide: Ensure you understand all the requirements and steps in the application process.
- Prepare Your Application Package: Gather all necessary documents and fill out the application forms accurately.
- Pay Application Fees: The fees typically start at $1,205 CAD.
- Submit Before the Deadline: Ensure your application is complete and submitted on time to avoid complications or outright refusal.
Common Reasons for Application Refusal:
- Incomplete applications
- Missing fees
- Late submissions
- Discrepancies between the application and the initial Interest to Sponsor form
Applications must be submitted through the Permanent Residence portal or the Representative Permanent Residence Portal if using a representative.
Alternative Pathways: The Super Visa
If you do not receive an ITA this year, consider the Super Visa as an alternative to bring your parents and grandparents to Canada. The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit Canada for up to five years at a time without renewing their status. It also offers the possibility of extending their stay for up to two more years, making it a viable option for family reunification.
Benefits of the Super Visa
- Available year-round
- No limit on the number of applications processed by IRCC
- Allows longer stays compared to regular visitor visas
Get Opportunities with the Canada PGP
The Canada PGP offers a wonderful opportunity for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with their parents and grandparents. With the issuance of 35,700 invitations starting today, many families will soon have the chance to bring their loved ones closer. Remember to follow the application steps carefully, and consider the Super Visa as an alternative if you don’t receive an ITA this year.
