Canada’s Parents and Grandparents Program Sees Steady Rise Amid Immigration Dip

Amidst an overall dip in immigration levels, Canada’s commitment to family reunification remains unwavering, as evidenced by the steady rise in permanent resident arrivals through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). According to the latest data from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the PGP witnessed a 5% increase in March, welcoming 2,005 new permanent residents, up from 1,910 in February.

This upward trend in the PGP stands in contrast to the overall decline in immigration to Canada, which saw a notable 11% decrease in total new permanent residents in March, with just 34,785 arrivals.

Despite the recent surge, the first quarter of the year saw a 14.9% decrease in PGP arrivals compared to the same period last year, with Canada receiving 5,765 new permanent residents under the program.

The province of Ontario emerged as the top destination for PGP arrivals during this period, welcoming 2,855 newcomers through the program. Meanwhile, Nova Scotia experienced a remarkable 50% increase in PGP immigration in March, reflecting the province’s growing appeal for families seeking to reunite with their loved ones.

In contrast, New Brunswick witnessed a 66.7% decline in PGP arrivals during the same month, highlighting the varying regional trends in family immigration patterns across the country.

The steady rise in the PGP underscores Canada’s commitment to fostering strong family ties and recognizing the invaluable contributions that parents and grandparents make to the fabric of Canadian society. By facilitating the reunification of families, the program not only enhances the well-being and sense of belonging for newcomers but also promotes the integration of diverse cultural traditions and intergenerational support systems.

As Canada navigates the complexities of immigration trends and aims to address labor market demands, the PGP serves as a testament to the country’s holistic approach, balancing economic priorities with the fundamental values of family unity and social cohesion.