Canada is once again opening its doors to reunite families. Starting July 28, 2025, the federal government will begin issuing invitations to sponsor under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)—a highly anticipated opportunity for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency. Sponsoring Parents and Grandparents – Parisa Erfani
Key Details of the 2025 PGP Intake
- Invitation Start Date: July 28, 2025
- Total Invitations: 17,860
- Targeted Applications: 10,000 complete submissions
- Eligibility Pool: Only individuals who submitted an Interest to Sponsor form in 2020 will be considered for this round.
This means no new Interest to Sponsor forms will be accepted. Instead, IRCC will randomly select sponsors from the 2020 intake pool using a lottery-style system.
What Is the Parents and Grandparents Program?
The PGP is a family reunification immigration pathway that allows eligible Canadians and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residence. Sponsored individuals who are approved under this program become Canadian permanent residents, with access to health care, social benefits, and a pathway to citizenship.
Due to overwhelming demand, IRCC operates the program using an invitation-based system, ensuring fairness and transparency. A sponsor must receive an invitation before they can submit a sponsorship application under the PGP.
What If You Don’t Get an Invitation?
If you’re not among those selected in this round, there’s another option: the Super Visa.
About the Super Visa
The Super Visa is a long-term visitor visa designed specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. It allows them to stay in Canada for up to five years per visit, and is valid for up to 10 years.
Unlike the regular visitor visa (which typically allows stays of up to 6 months), the Super Visa is a more flexible and long-term solution for families who want to be together while waiting for permanent residency options to open.
To qualify, applicants must:
- Purchase approved private health insurance from a Canadian provider.
- Be admissible to Canada.
- Have a child or grandchild in Canada who meets minimum income requirements and provides a letter of financial support.
Final Thoughts
The reopening of the PGP intake is a welcome development for families separated by borders. If you submitted an Interest to Sponsor form in 2020, keep an eye on your inbox starting July 28. And for those not selected, the Super Visa remains a valuable path to reunite with your loved ones.
Intake to open for Parents and Grandparents Program | CIC News
