Family Sponsorship
Eligibility for Sponsoring Parents and Grandparents to Canada Guide 2024
The Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program is vital to Canada’s family reunification initiative. This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their parents and grandparents to Canada as permanent residents. However, strict eligibility criteria apply to both sponsors and applicants to ensure the program’s integrity and the well-being of sponsored individuals.
Eligibility Requirements for Sponsors
To sponsor your parents or grandparents for Canadian immigration, you must meet several key criteria:
Age and Residency Status
Be at least 18 years old
Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or a person registered in Canada as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act
Live in Canada (unless you are a Canadian citizen living abroad and plan to return to Canada when your parents or grandparents become permanent residents)
Financial Requirements
Sponsors must demonstrate financial stability to support their parents or grandparents. This includes:
Meeting or exceeding the minimum necessary income level (MNI) for the three consecutive taxation years immediately preceding the date of application
Providing Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) notices of assessment or option “C” prints as proof of income
The MNI is calculated based on the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) plus 30%. The exact amount varies depending on family size and location of residence. For the most current income thresholds, refer to the official IRCC income table.
Length of Financial Responsibility
Sponsors must sign an undertaking promising to support their sponsored parents or grandparents for financially:
20 years from the date they become permanent residents, or
The length of time until the parent or grandparent becomes a Canadian citizen, whichever comes first
Note: This extended period reflects the potential long-term care needs of older relatives.
Additional Sponsor Eligibility Factors
Sponsors must also:
Not be in default of any previous sponsorship undertaking, immigration loan, performance bond, or family support payments
Not be detained in a penitentiary, jail, reformatory, or prison
Not be subject to a removal order
Not have declared bankruptcy that has not been discharged
Not be in receipt of social assistance for a reason other than disability
Eligibility Requirements for Parents and Grandparents
The individuals being sponsored must also meet certain criteria:
- Be the sponsor’s biological or adoptive parents or grandparents
- Sign a document stating their intent to live in Canada
- Meet basic admissibility requirements related to criminal, security, and medical factors
- Not be inadmissible to Canada for reasons such as serious criminality, security concerns, or human rights violations
Super Visa: An Alternative Option for PGP
For those who may not meet the eligibility criteria for permanent sponsorship, the Super Visa offers an alternative:
Allows parents and grandparents to visit Canada for up to 5 years at a time
Valid for up to 10 years
Requires less stringent financial criteria compared to permanent sponsorship
Learn more about the Super Visa option on the IRCC Super Visa page.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Navigating the eligibility requirements can be complex. Here are some common challenges and potential solutions:
Income Requirement: Consider co-signing with an eligible spouse or common-law partner to meet the MNI
Proof of Relationship: Gather comprehensive documentation to prove your relationship, especially in cases of adoption or complex family structures
Medical Inadmissibility: Explore the possibility of requesting a Temporary Resident Permit if health issues are a concern
PGP Application Process
Once you’ve determined your eligibility, the application process typically involves:
Submitting an interest to sponsor form during the designated intake period
If invited, complete and submitting a full application package within the specified timeframe (usually 60 days)
Paying all required fees
Providing biometrics and attending interviews if requested
For detailed information on the application process, visit the IRCC’s application guide.
How to Prepare a Strong Application
To increase your chances of a successful application:
Ensure all forms are completed accurately and thoroughly
Provide clear and comprehensive supporting documentation
Meet all deadlines and respond promptly to any requests for additional information
Consider seeking assistance from a registered immigration consultant or lawyer if your case is complex
Recent Changes and Updates
Immigration policies can change. Some recent updates to the Parent and Grandparent Program include:
Adjustments to the intake process (e.g., switching between lottery and first-come, first-served systems)
Changes to income requirement calculations
Increased application quotas in some years
Always check the latest IRCC announcements for the most up-to-date information.
Sponsoring parents and grandparents for Canadian immigration is a significant commitment that requires careful consideration of eligibility criteria for both sponsors and applicants. By thoroughly understanding these requirements and preparing a strong application, you can increase your chances of successfully reuniting your family in Canada.
Remember that while the process can be complex, the reward of bringing your loved ones to Canada can be immeasurable. Always consult official sources and consider seeking professional advice to navigate the intricacies of the sponsorship process.
