Significant Increase in Parents and Grandparents Immigration to Canada

Canada’s Immigration Level Plans for 2023-2025 aim to welcome 465,000 permanent residents, with 106,500 permanent residents under the family sponsorship category. The family sponsorship category includes spouses, common-law partners, children, and parents and grandparents under the PGP program. As of now, Canada has already welcomed 13,000 newcomers under both spousal/children sponsorship and the PGP program. In January 2023, Canada welcomed 50,885 new permanent residents, which is almost a 44% increase compared to the 35,450 newcomers in January of the previous year.

The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is a program under which Canada hopes to bring in 28,500 permanent residents. In January 2023, the number of permanent residents who entered Canada through the PGP program grew by over 60% compared to January of 2022. In January 2023, a total of 2,065 new permanent residents under PGP were welcomed as compared to 1,300 in January of 2022.

To be eligible for the PGP program, Canadian citizens and permanent residents must meet certain criteria, including having completed an Interest to Sponsor form on IRCC’s website, being 18 years of age or older, residing in Canada, exceeding the minimum necessary income level for the program, and signing an undertaking to financially support the sponsored for 20 years. If the sponsor resides in Quebec, an additional undertaking must be signed with the province of Quebec.

Overall, Canada’s Immigration Level Plans for 2023-2025 and the PGP program offer opportunities for families to reunite and for individuals to immigrate to Canada.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the eligibility requirements for sponsoring parents and grandparents to Canada?

To sponsor parents and grandparents to Canada, the sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. The sponsor must also meet certain income requirements to demonstrate that they can financially support their parents or grandparents. Additionally, the sponsored parent or grandparent must meet certain eligibility criteria, such as passing a medical exam and a criminal background check.

What changes have been made to the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) in 2024?

As of 2024, the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) has not undergone any significant changes. However, it is important to note that the PGP has undergone several changes in recent years, including changes to the application process and the number of applications accepted each year. It is recommended to stay up to date with any changes to the program by regularly checking the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.

How can I apply for a Super Visa for my parents or grandparents?

To apply for a Super Visa for your parents or grandparents, you must first meet certain eligibility requirements, such as being a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, meeting certain income requirements, and purchasing private medical insurance for your parents or grandparents. You can then apply for the Super Visa through the IRCC website.

What is the processing time for the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program?

The processing time for the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program can vary depending on several factors, such as the number of applications received and the completeness of the application. As of 2024, the processing time is estimated to be around 20 to 24 months. However, it is important to note that processing times can change and it is recommended to regularly check the IRCC website for updates.

Are there any alternatives to the PGP for bringing parents and grandparents to Canada?

Yes, there are alternatives to the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) for bringing parents and grandparents to Canada. One alternative is the Super Visa program, which allows parents and grandparents to visit Canada for up to two years at a time. Another alternative is the Family Class Sponsorship program, which allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their spouses, dependent children, parents, and grandparents for permanent residency.

How does the Canada PR lottery system affect family sponsorship in 2023?

As of 2023, the Canada PR lottery system does not directly affect family sponsorship. The lottery system is used for the Express Entry program, which is separate from family sponsorship programs. However, it is important to note that changes to immigration policies and programs can have indirect effects on other programs, and it is recommended to stay up to date with any changes to immigration policies and programs.