Family reunification remains a key priority in Canada’s immigration system, with the Parents and Grandparents (PGP) Program allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their loved ones to live with them in Canada. In 2025, IRCC announced important program updates, aiming to bring more families together.
What is the PGP Program?
The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency. Once approved, sponsored family members can live, work, and access health care and social services in Canada, just like any other permanent resident.
Application Intake for 2025
In 2025, IRCC will accept up to 10,000 complete sponsorship applications through the PGP Program. To manage application volumes, invitations will be sent to randomly selected individuals from the pool of interest to sponsor forms submitted in 2020 — continuing the approach taken since 2020. If you applied in 2020 but weren’t selected, you might still have a chance this year.
Processing Timelines
Processing times for PGP applications differ based on location:
- Outside Quebec: Around 24 months
- Quebec applicants: Around 48 months (due to the province’s lower family class admission targets)
IRCC carefully adjusts application intake to align with the immigration targets set in the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan, aiming to balance demand with available spots and avoid long processing delays.
Alternative Family Reunification Options
For those who don’t receive an invitation, the super visa is still an excellent option for extended family visits. It allows parents and grandparents to:
- Stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit
- Make multiple entries over a 10-year period
IRCC has recently made the super visa more accessible by easing the health insurance requirements, making it a flexible choice for families wanting to spend more time together.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How can I check if I’m still in the 2020 pool of potential sponsors?
You can log into your IRCC account or contact IRCC directly to check your status and see if you’re still eligible for selection.
2. Can I submit a new interest to sponsor form in 2025?
No, IRCC will not be accepting new interest to sponsor forms for 2025. Invitations will only be sent to individuals already in the 2020 pool.
3. What are the financial requirements for sponsoring parents or grandparents?
Sponsors must meet minimum income requirements for the past three years, as shown in their Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) notices of assessment. The required income depends on the size of the family unit.
4. What happens if my application is not selected?
If you’re not selected, you can still consider the super visa as an option for your parents or grandparents to visit Canada for extended periods.
5. When will IRCC start sending invitations for 2025?
IRCC has not yet announced the exact date invitations will be sent but will provide updates in the coming months. Be sure to check IRCC’s website regularly for new information.
What’s Next?
IRCC will share more information about the 2025 PGP Program, including when invitations will be sent, in the coming months. Families interested in sponsorship should stay updated and begin preparing their documentation early.
The PGP Program continues to be a meaningful pathway for families to reunite and build their lives in Canada. While the process may take time, the opportunity to be together makes the effort worthwhile. Canada’s 2025 PGP Program Update: Application Limits, Timelines & More
