Reunite with your parents and grandparents in Canada through the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP). Sponsor them for permanent residence and bring your family together permanently.
The PGP allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residence in Canada through an annual lottery system
Essential requirements you must meet to sponsor your parents and grandparents through the PGP
• No criminal record or bankruptcy
• Not in default of previous sponsorship
• Not receiving social assistance
• Sign 20-year undertaking agreement
Step-by-step guide to successfully sponsor your parents and grandparents through the PGP
Submit your interest to sponsor form during the annual intake period (usually October-November).
Wait for the lottery results. If selected, you'll receive an invitation to apply with 60 days to submit.
Submit sponsor and sponsored person applications with all required documents within 60 days.
Wait for processing (20-24 months) and respond to any additional document requests.
Compare the Parent & Grandparent Program with the Super Visa to choose the best option for your family
Common questions about the PGP and Super Visa pathways
Still have questions? Talk to our team
The Parents and Grandparents Program typically uses an interest to sponsor form followed by a random draw or first-come basis for invitations, depending on the intake method IRCC announces each year. Only those invited can submit a full application.
You must meet the Minimum Necessary Income, which is the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) plus 30%, for each of the three most recent tax years before you apply, based on your family size including the people you want to sponsor.
Yes. The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents to visit for up to 5 years at a time without needing permanent residence, making it a practical option while you wait for a PGP invitation or if you do not meet the income requirement.
Once invited to apply, PGP sponsorship applications generally take 20 to 24 months to process, though timelines can vary based on application volume and completeness of documentation.
If you do not meet the Minimum Necessary Income in the most recent tax year, you may still be able to use a co-signer or wait and reapply once your income qualifies, depending on the program rules in effect at the time.