Family Sponsorship
Sponsoring Parents and Grandparents for Canadian Immigration: Complete Guide
Canada’s family reunification program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for immigration. This comprehensive guide will walk you through the process, requirements, and considerations for bringing your loved ones to Canada.
Understanding the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program
The Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) is a popular immigration stream that enables Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residence. This program reflects Canada’s commitment to family reunification and recognizes the valuable contributions that older family members can make to Canadian society.
Key Features of the Program
Annual application intake
Limited number of applications accepted each year
First-come, first-served basis or lottery system (varies by year)
Strict eligibility criteria for sponsors and applicants
Eligibility Requirements for Sponsors
To sponsor your parents or grandparents, you must meet the following criteria:
Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Be 18 years of age or older
Meet or exceed the minimum necessary income level for the past three taxation years
Sign an undertaking to financially support your sponsored relatives for 20 years
Income Requirements
The income threshold for sponsors is based on the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) plus 30%. This requirement ensures that sponsors can support their family members without relying on social assistance. The exact income requirement depends on:
The size of the sponsor’s family unit
The number of people being sponsored
For the most up-to-date income requirements, refer to the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
Eligibility Criteria for Parents and Grandparents
To be eligible for sponsorship, parents and grandparents must:
Be the biological or adoptive parents or grandparents of the sponsor
Be admissible to Canada (meet health, security, and criminal requirements)
Not be inadmissible due to reasons such as security concerns, human rights violations, or criminal activity
The Application Process
The Parent and Grandparent Program typically follows a two-step application process:
Step 1: Interest to Sponsor Form
Wait for IRCC to announce the opening of the interest to sponsor period
Submit the interest to sponsor form online during the specified timeframe
Receive an invitation to apply if your submission is selected
Step 2: Complete Sponsorship Application
Receive an invitation to apply (ITA)
Gather all required documents for both sponsor and applicants
Complete and submit the full sponsorship application package within the given timeframe (usually 60 days)
Pay the required fees
It’s crucial to note that the exact process may vary from year to year, so always check the official IRCC website for the most current information.
Required Documents and Forms
A complete application package typically includes:
Sponsorship forms
Permanent residence application forms
Proof of relationship (birth certificates, marriage certificates)
Proof of sponsor’s income (Notice of Assessment, T4 slips)
Police clearance certificates
Medical examination results
Ensure all documents are properly translated if they’re not in English or French.
Processing Times and Fees
Processing times for parent and grandparent sponsorship applications can vary significantly. Factors affecting processing times include:
The volume of applications received
The complexity of the case
The completeness of the application
For the most current processing times, check the IRCC processing times tool.
Application fees typically include:
Sponsorship fee
Principal applicant processing fee
Right of permanent residence fee
Biometrics fee
Always refer to the official fee list for the most up-to-date information on costs.
Alternative Options for Family Reunification
If you’re unable to meet the requirements for the Parent and Grandparent Program, consider these alternatives:
Super Visa: A multi-entry visa valid for up to 10 years, allowing parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit
Visitor Visa: A temporary resident visa for shorter stays
Family Class Sponsorship for other eligible relatives
Preparing for Your Parents’ or Grandparents’ Arrival
Once your sponsorship application is approved, consider the following to help your family members settle in Canada:
Housing arrangements
Healthcare coverage and services
Language classes if needed
Community integration programs
Financial planning for long-term support
Common Challenges and How to Address Them
Meeting income requirements: Consider co-signing with an eligible spouse or partner
Gathering documents: Start collecting required paperwork early, especially from other countries
Long processing times: Stay patient and keep communication lines open with IRCC
Health inadmissibility: Explore the possibility of obtaining a Temporary Resident Permit
Impact of COVID-19 on the Parent and Grandparent Program
The global pandemic has affected immigration processes worldwide. Stay informed about:
Changes in application procedures
Travel restrictions and exemptions
Quarantine requirements
Processing delays
Regularly check the IRCC COVID-19 updates page for the latest information.
Sponsoring parents and grandparents for Canadian immigration is a significant commitment that requires careful planning and preparation. By understanding the eligibility criteria, application process, and potential challenges, you can increase your chances of a successful sponsorship.
Remember that reuniting families is a priority for Canadian immigration, and with patience and diligence, you can help your parents or grandparents start a new chapter of their lives in Canada.
