Canada’s Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship (PGP) program is a popular way for permanent residents to bring their parents and grandparents to live with them. Every year, parents are entered into the pool and randomly selected through a lottery system.
Here’s everything you need to know about the 2025 program, when will parents’ sponsorship open for 2025, explained in simple terms.
When Will Parent Sponsorship Open for 2025?
Unlike previous years, the 2025 PGP will not receive a new intake of applications. IRCC has not confirmed any plans to reopen the program anytime soon this year and advised to wait until further notice.
IRCC will focus on processing applications from individuals who submitted an Interest to Sponsor form in 2020-2024 and have already been invited to apply.
Why is This Happening?
The decision was made to address the backlog of applications and improve processing times for families already in the system. While this may disappoint many families hoping to apply in 2025, alternative options like the Super Visa remain available for parents and grandparents to visit Canada for extended periods.
Is the Interest to Sponsor Form Open in 2024?
The Interest to Sponsor (ITS) form is the first step to apply for parent sponsorship. In 2024, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) didn’t open any new form.
Instead, they invited people who had already submitted the form in 2020 and 2021. For 2025, It’s unclear if this approach will continue for this year too, or if a new ITS form will be introduced. You must keep checking their official website or you subscribe to our notification to get updated first.
How Do Parents Sponsorship Work?
IRCC uses a Lottery system to select a number of applicants process. Here’s a quick breakdown of how does the system works:
- Submit Interest to Sponsor Form: Fill out this form online when IRCC opens parents” sponsorship in 2025. IRCC may use a lottery to select applicants.
- Invitation to Apply (ITA): If selected, you’ll get an invitation to submit a full sponsorship application.
- Eligibility: You must meet income requirements for the last three years, prove your relationship, and be ready to financially support them.
- Application & Approval: Submit required forms and documents. Once approved, your parents or grandparents can move to Canada as permanent residents.
What Is the New Parent Sponsorship Program in Canada?
The program hasn’t changed much recently, but IRCC has introduced some updates over the years:
- Online Applications: More steps can now be done online to save time.
- Income Flexibility: There’s more leniency with income requirements, especially for families impacted by COVID-19.
- Super Visa Option: If you’re not selected for sponsorship, the Super Visa allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time, with the option to renew.
For 2025, IRCC hasn’t announced major changes yet. Keep an eye out for updates.
IRCC has reduced the number of quotas for Parents’ sponsorship in Canada for this year to meet their immigration target plan.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does it take to sponsor parents in Canada?
Processing times can vary but generally take 1-2 years, depending on the complexity of the application and the volume of submissions IRCC is handling.
What are the income requirements to sponsor parents?
You must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the past three years. IRCC requires proof, such as Notices of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency.
Can I sponsor both my parents and grandparents?
Yes, you can include both your parents and grandparents in your application, as long as you meet the income requirements for all family members. However, chances of getting selected in the lottery may get reduced.
What happens if I’m not selected in the ITS lottery?
If you’re not selected, you can still apply for a Super Visa, which allows parents or grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time.
What is the difference between sponsorship and the Super Visa?
Sponsorship grants permanent residence, while the Super Visa is a long-term visitor visa that allows extended stays but doesn’t lead to permanent residency
Tips for Sponsorship in 2025
- Get Ready Early: Start preparing documents and check if you meet the income requirements.
- Follow IRCC Updates: Keep checking their website or social media for announcements.
- Explore Alternatives: If you’re not selected, look into the Super Visa as another way to bring your parents to Canada.
- Stay Organized: Save copies of everything you submit and any confirmation emails or numbers.
Sponsoring your parents or grandparents is a big step, but with proper preparation, it’s doable. Keep an eye on updates and start planning now will all the documents ready to increase your chances of getting selected when it opens again.
