Family Sponsorship
How to Submit an Interest to Sponsor Form for Parents and Grandparents in Canada
The Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) is a popular immigration stream that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residence in Canada. The first step in this process is submitting an Interest to Sponsor form. This blog will guide you through the entire process, from preparation to submission and beyond.
PGP Key Dates and Timelines
The Interest to Sponsor process typically occurs annually, with specific dates announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). It’s crucial to stay informed about these dates:
Announcement of the intake period
Opening of the Interest to Sponsor form submission window
Closing of the submission window
Timeline for invitation to apply (ITA) issuance
To stay updated on the latest announcements, regularly check the IRCC’s news releases.
Eligibility Criteria for Potential Sponsors
Before submitting an Interest to Sponsor form, ensure you meet the following eligibility 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
Be able to demonstrate financial ability to support sponsored family members
For detailed information on income requirements, consult the IRCC’s income tables.
Preparing to Submit the Interest to Sponsor Form
1. Gather Information
Before the submission window opens, gather the following information:
Your personal details (name, date of birth, address)
Your immigration status in Canada
Your Unique Client Identifier (UCI) or application number
Details of the family members you intend to sponsor
Information about your income for the past three tax years
2. Obtaining Your UCI
Your UCI is a unique 8 or 10-digit number found on official immigration documents. If you can’t locate your UCI, you can request it from IRCC.
3. Submitting the Interest to Sponsor Form
When the submission window opens, follow these steps:
Step 1: Visit the official IRCC website
Step 2: Locate the online Interest to Sponsor form
Step 3: Fill out all required fields accurately
Step 4: Review your information for errors
Step 5: Submit the form before the deadline
Tips for a Successful Submission
Prepare all information in advance to ensure quick submission
Use a reliable internet connection
Submit early to avoid last-minute technical issues
Keep a record of your submission (screenshot or confirmation number)
4. After Submission Selection Process
After the submission period closes, IRCC typically uses a randomized selection process to choose potential sponsors. If selected:
You will receive an invitation to apply (ITA)
You’ll have a specified timeframe (usually 60 days) to submit a complete application
If not selected, your expression of interest does not carry over to the next year. You must submit a new Interest to Sponsor form in future intake periods.
Alternatives to the Parent and Grandparent Program
If you’re not selected 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.
Recent Changes and Updates 2024
The Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) has undergone several changes in recent years to improve efficiency and fairness. Here are some key updates for 2024:
Faster processing times: IRCC has implemented measures to expedite the processing of PGP applications.
Increased quota: The PGP quota has been increased to allow for the sponsorship of more parents and grandparents.
Invitation-based system: The program now operates on an invitation-based system, where interested sponsors submit an Expression of Interest (EOI) and are selected randomly to submit a full application.
Online application: The entire application process is now conducted online, making it more convenient for sponsors and applicants.
Note: Always refer to the most current IRCC guidelines when preparing your submission.
Expressing interest in sponsoring your parents or grandparents for Canadian immigration is an important first step in the family reunification process. By understanding the requirements, preparing thoroughly, and staying informed about key dates and changes, you can maximize your chances of success.
Remember that while the process can be complex, the reward of bringing your family to Canada is immeasurable. Stay patient, follow the guidelines carefully, and consider seeking professional advice if you have any doubts or complex circumstances.