Canada’s Parents and Grandparents Program will not accept new parent and grandparent permanent residency sponsorship applications until further notice, this signals significant reduction in immigration targets for 2025, with landings shifting from 32,000 to 24,500. While this change reflects broader adjustments in the new Canadian immigration policy, families still have positive alternatives for reunification. The Super Visa program offers an excellent option, allowing parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years with multiple entries. This temporary solution requires proof of financial support and mandatory health insurance but provides a reliable bridge during the PGP pause. Regular visitor visas remain available for shorter stays, and families can use this time to strengthen their applications. Understanding all available pathways reveals numerous opportunities for family connection.
The Pause on PGP Sponsorship in 2025
Following significant changes to Canada’s immigration targets, the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) faces substantial adjustments in its operational capacity. The program’s landing targets have been reduced by 20%, shifting from 32,000 to 24,500 for 2025, reflecting broader changes in immigration policy priorities.
The government’s decision to reduce the permanent resident targets by 20% for 2025, shifting from 32,000 to 24,500 for 2025 has further complicated family reunification plans. Starting January 1, 2025, no new applications will be accepted for parents and grandparents sponsorship.
Despite these changes, families still have options for reunification through alternative pathways. The super visa program remains a viable solution, offering extended stays of up to five years with multiple entries over a decade. This flexibility allows families to maintain strong connections while adapting to the new immigration landscape.
We’re encouraging families to stay informed and consider multiple immigration routes, from Provincial Nominee Programs to caregiver streams. Though the journey may be longer than expected, we’re committed to supporting each other through these changes, remembering that every challenge brings new opportunities for creative solutions and stronger family bonds.
Super Visa Alternative
With the Parents and Grandparents Program temporarily paused, the super visa emerges as a practical alternative for family reunification. This powerful option allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time, with multiple entries over a 10-year period.
Canada’s Recent PGP changes left your family looking for immediate solutions?
The Super Visa ensures parents and grandparents can stay in Canada for up to five years with multiple entries
Learn about Super Visa for Parents and Grandparents
The super visa offers remarkable flexibility, letting families maintain strong connections while managing the immigration process. Canadian citizens and permanent residents can welcome their loved ones through this streamlined option, which requires proof of financial support and mandatory health insurance.
| Requirement | What You’ll Need |
|---|---|
| Host Status | Canadian citizen/PR/Indian status |
| Insurance | Canadian medical coverage |
| Duration | Up to 5 years per stay |
| Processing | Around 8 weeks |
The application process, while thorough, is straightforward and can be completed from abroad.
For families seeking immediate solutions, the super visa stands as a reliable bridge, offering meaningful time together without the wait times associated with permanent residency programs.
Future Immigration Planning Changes
Recent changes to Canada’s Immigration Levels Plan signal a significant shift in permanent resident targets, marking a 20% reduction for 2025. This adjustment directly impacts the Parents and Grandparents Program, with landings now targeted at 24,500, down from the previous target of 34,000.
The revised plan demonstrates Canada’s commitment to managing immigration thoughtfully, ensuring sustainable growth while maintaining family reunification opportunities.
For the first time, the plan includes targets for temporary residents, showing a more inclusive approach to immigration management.
While the reduction presents new challenges, it allows Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to focus on processing efficiency and resource optimization.
These changes reflect Canada’s evolving immigration strategy, balancing family reunification goals with the country’s capacity to welcome newcomers effectively.
Next Steps for Families
Canadian families affected by the Parents and Grandparents Program pause have several options to maintain family connections across borders.
The super visa offers a practical solution, allowing parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time, with multiple entries over a 10-year period. This flexible arrangement helps families spend quality time together while meeting temporary residence requirements.
Regular visitor visas remain available for shorter stays under six months, providing another way to facilitate family visits.
Families can also use this time to strengthen their financial position and prepare documentation for future permanent residency opportunities.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Sponsors Appeal if Their 2020 PGP Application Was Rejected?
Sponsors can appeal a rejected PGP application. The Immigration Appeal Division (IAD) manages these appeals. Success hinges on valid reasons and proper documentation.
What Happens to Applications Submitted Before 2020 That Weren’t Processed Yet?
Applications submitted before 2020 are still in the processing queue. They follow the lottery selections from the 2020 intake. IRCC processes these applications according to the 2020-2024 schedule.
What Happens to Medical Exam Results During Extended Processing Times?
Medical exam results are valid for 12 months. If they expire before processing is complete, immigration will request new exams. This keeps your application valid.
Are There Age Restrictions for Parents and Grandparents Applying?
Parents and grandparents have no age restrictions when applying for Canadian sponsorship. They must prove their family relationship to the sponsor and meet immigration admissibility requirements.
Can Siblings Be Included in a Parent’s PGP Application?
Siblings cannot join a parent’s PGP application. This program is for parents and grandparents only. Each sibling must follow their own immigration path to Canada.
Can Sponsored Parents Work Part-Time While Waiting for PGP Application Decisions?
Sponsored parents cannot work part-time while waiting for PGP application decisions. They must receive permanent residency to work in Canada. Temporary visitor status does not allow employment.