Temporary Pause: Canada’s Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program
Canadian citizens and permanent residents who want to sponsor their parents or grandparents to live permanently in Canada will not be able to do so this year. The Canadian federal government announced the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program is paused until further notice and will not be accepting or processing any new applications for 2025.
For 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will only be processing parent and grandparent sponsorship applications that were already submitted in 2024 due to a significant backlog. IRCC stated that they plan on processing a maximum of 15,000 parent and grandparent sponsorship applications in 2025.
The temporary pause on new applications is part of Canada’s broader strategy to manage immigration by reducing targets, particularly for the Parent and Grandparent Program.
How to Bring Parents and Grandparents to Canada
Canada offers alternative immigration pathways for those who still want to bring their loved ones to Canada, even while the sponsorship program is on hold. Below are the main options available:
Super Visa
The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time, with the possibility of renewal. This option is ideal for extended visits and provides more flexibility compared to a regular visitor visa. To apply for a Super Visa, both the sponsor and the principal applicant must meet specific requirements, including:
Proof of Financial Support: Sponsors must demonstrate sufficient income to support their family members.
Medical Insurance: Applicants need private medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company, valid for at least one year.
Medical Exam: A medical examination may be required to ensure the applicant is admissible to Canada.
It is important to note that Super Visa holders cannot work or study in Canada and must leave once their visa expires. However, they may reapply for a new Super Visa if they meet the requirements.
Visitor Visa/Temporary Resident Visa
A Visitor Visa allows parents or grandparents to stay in Canada for up to six months. This visa is more suitable for short-term visits. Applicants can apply for an extension if they wish to stay longer.
Key Points:
Eligibility: Applicants must prove they intend to leave Canada at the end of their stay.
Financial Support: Sponsors may need to show they can support their visitors financially during their stay.
Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
While not specifically designed for parents or grandparents, the Express Entry system or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) can be options for family members who possess in-demand skills or qualifications. These pathways target individuals who can contribute to Canada’s economy.
Express Entry: Focuses on skilled workers with strong language proficiency, work experience, and education.
PNPs: Tailored to specific provinces, these programs may prioritize applicants with skills that address regional labor shortages.
Key Considerations
Costs and Application Timelines
Super Visa application fees typically range from $100 to $200 CAD, with additional costs for medical exams and private insurance.
Visitor Visa applications cost $100 CAD per person, with processing times varying by country.
Express Entry and PNPs involve more complex processes, including application fees and proof of qualifications, which may take several months.
Upcoming Policy Changes
Stay informed about potential changes in immigration policies, as the IRCC frequently updates its programs to address economic and demographic needs.
Conclusion
Though the temporary pause on the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program may be disappointing, Canada still offers viable alternatives for bringing loved ones to the country. Whether through the Super Visa, Visitor Visa, or other immigration pathways, these options provide flexibility for families seeking to reunite.
If you’re unsure which option is best for your family, contact us for personalized guidance. Start exploring your options today and take the first step toward your Canadian immigration journey.
