In a move aimed at promoting family reunification, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the reopening of the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) for the 2025 intake. Beginning July 28, 2025, the federal government will issue 17,860 invitations to potential sponsors over two weeks, with the target of approving 10,000 complete applications this year.
Also Read Canada to Invite 17,860 Sponsors Under 2025 Parents and Grandparents Program
Who Can Expect an Invitation?
All invitations will go to individuals who previously submitted an “Interest to Sponsor” form during the 2020 intake window. Due to overwhelming demand and limited capacity, IRCC continues to rely on this pool of potential sponsors, selected through a randomized lottery system. No new intake window has been announced for 2025.
Those who receive an invitation will be eligible to submit a full application to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residence in Canada. Importantly, only those invited can proceed with a sponsorship application under this program.
Program Overview: What Is the PGP?
The Parents and Grandparents Program allows eligible Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and registered First Nations individuals to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residency in Canada. The program serves as a key part of Canada’s family reunification objectives and is highly sought after.
Due to the large number of interested sponsors and a fixed annual intake cap, IRCC utilizes a randomized selection process. Only those selected through this lottery-style draw are permitted to apply during the intake period.
Haven’t Been Invited? The Super Visa Is a Viable Option
Individuals who do not receive an invitation under the PGP still have an alternative: the Super Visa program. This long-term multiple-entry visa allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for extended periods—up to five years per entry, with a validity of up to ten years.
Unlike standard visitor visas, which are typically valid for six months, the Super Visa provides far more flexibility for families wishing to spend time together in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements for the Super Visa
To qualify for a Super Visa, applicants must:
- Be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Undergo a medical examination and be deemed admissible to Canada.
- Obtain private medical insurance from a Canadian provider covering at least one year.
- Have their host meet a minimum income threshold to financially support their stay.
The sponsoring family member must also provide a written commitment to financially support the visiting relative throughout their time in Canada.
Looking Ahead: No New 2025 Interest to Sponsor Form
As of now, IRCC has not announced any new opportunity for potential sponsors to submit interest to sponsor forms for future years. The department continues to process applications based on the 2020 pool, which means new applicants may need to wait longer before being eligible to participate in the PGP.
Why This Matters
Canada’s Parents and Grandparents Program is among the most competitive immigration pathways, reflecting the country’s emphasis on family reunification. The limited intake and random selection process, however, have led to increasing interest in the Super Visa as a more accessible and flexible alternative for many families.
As IRCC continues to refine its family sponsorship programs, potential sponsors are encouraged to explore all available options and to prepare in advance, should new intake opportunities arise in the future.
