Family Sponsorship
How to Apply for Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship in Canada 2024

The Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program is a vital component of Canada’s family reunification initiative. This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residence in Canada. The application process is detailed and requires careful preparation to ensure success.
Eligibility Requirements for Sponsors
Before beginning the application process, ensure you meet the following criteria:
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
Meet the minimum necessary income (MNI) requirement for the past three taxation years
Agree to financially support the sponsored relative for 20 years
For detailed income requirements, consult the IRCC’s income tables.
Eligibility Requirements for Parents and Grandparents
The individuals you wish to sponsor must:
Be your biological or adoptive parents or grandparents
Be admissible to Canada (meet health, security, and criminal requirements)
Not be inadmissible for reasons such as security concerns or human rights violations
The Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
Step 1: Interest to Sponsor
To begin the sponsorship process, you must wait for the Interest to Sponsor period to open, which is usually announced annually. Once open, submit the Interest to Sponsor form online within the designated timeframe. You’ll receive confirmation of your submission upon successful completion.
Step 2: Invitation to Apply
If selected, you’ll receive an email containing an Invitation to Apply (ITA). This ITA will include a unique code and a specific deadline for submitting your complete application.
Step 3: Gathering Required Documents
Collect the following documents:
Proof of your status in Canada
Income tax records for the past three years
Birth certificates for you and your parents or grandparents
Marriage certificates (if applicable)
Police clearance certificates
Medical examination results
For a comprehensive list, refer to the IRCC’s application guide.
Step 4: Completing Application Forms
Fill out the following forms accurately:
Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking (IMM 1344)
Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking (IMM 1344)
Generic Application Form for Canada (IMM 0008)
Additional Family Information (IMM 5406)
Sponsored Parents and Grandparents Questionnaire (IMM 5690)
Ensure you’re using the most recent versions of these forms, available on the IRCC website.
Step 5: Paying the Fees
Be prepared to pay various fees throughout the process, including the sponsorship fee, principal applicant processing fee, right of permanent residence fee, and biometrics fee.
For current fee amounts, consult the IRCC’s fee list.
Step 6: Submitting Your Application
- Before the ITA deadline, review your application package carefully to ensure it’s complete and accurate. Submit your application online or by mail and retain copies of all submitted documents for your reference.
After Submission: What to Expect
After submitting your application, you’ll receive an acknowledgment of receipt from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Your application will then undergo an initial review to ensure it’s complete. If accepted, it will enter the processing queue for further evaluation. IRCC may request additional information or documents during this process. Finally, you’ll receive a notification with the final decision on your application.
Check current processing times on the IRCC website.
Alternative Options if Not Selected
If you’re not selected to apply or don’t meet the eligibility criteria, consider these alternatives:
Super Visa: Allows parents and grandparents to visit for up to 5 years at a time
Visitor Visa: For shorter stays
Family Class Sponsorship for other eligible relatives
Learn more about these options on the IRCC’s family sponsorship page.
Preparing for Arrival
While waiting for the application decision, start planning for your family members’ arrival:
Research housing options in your area
Explore healthcare coverage and services
Investigate settlement services and community support programs
Consider language training options if necessary
For resources on settling in Canada, visit the Government of Canada’s newcomer services page.
Applying for parent and grandparent sponsorship in Canada is a complex but rewarding process. By understanding the requirements, preparing thoroughly, and staying organized throughout the application journey, you can increase your chances of success. Remember that while the process can be challenging, the opportunity to reunite with your family in Canada is invaluable.
Stay informed about any changes to the program by regularly checking the IRCC website, and don’t hesitate to seek professional advice if you encounter difficulties. With careful planning and attention to detail, you can navigate the application process successfully and look forward to welcoming your parents or grandparents to Canada.