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Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) Overview

The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is a Canada Visa pathway that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residence. Unlike a temporary visa, successful PGP sponsorship leads directly to Canada PR status for the sponsored parent or grandparent. Because demand for the program consistently exceeds the number of spots available, IRCC manages intake through a randomized, invitation-only process: eligible sponsors submit an “Interest to Sponsor” form during a limited window, and only those randomly selected receive an invitation to submit a full application. As of January 1, 2026, IRCC’s ministerial instructions indicate that no new PGP sponsorship or related permanent residence applications are being accepted for processing until further instructions are issued; the most recent intake (2025) invited sponsors from the 2020 Interest to Sponsor pool and closed on October 9, 2025. Families interested in reuniting sooner may consider the Super Visa as an interim option. Approval is decided solely by IRCC.

Parents and Grandparents Program Fees

Fee TypeGovernment Fee (CAD)
Sponsorship Fee$90
Principal Applicant Processing Fee (parent/grandparent)$570
Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF)$600
Total, per sponsored parent/grandparent$1,260
Dependent Child Processing Fee$150 per child
Biometrics Fee, per person$85

Fees apply only once a sponsor has been invited to apply and submits a full application. Fees are generally non-refundable once processing begins, though the RPRF may be refunded if permanent residence is not granted. Exchange rates fluctuate, so INR values are approximate. Information may vary depending on individual circumstances and is subject to change if IRCC reopens the intake.

Parents and Grandparents Program Processing Time

When the program is accepting applications, PGP processing has historically ranged from about 20 to 36 months or longer after a sponsor submits a complete application, since sponsorship applications undergo detailed review of income, relationship, and admissibility factors across three tax years. As of the most recent update, IRCC is focused on processing applications already submitted under the 2025 intake into 2026, and has not confirmed a timeline for a new intake or Interest to Sponsor window. Because the program’s availability and timelines can change, prospective sponsors should monitor official IRCC announcements and prepare their income documentation in advance so they are ready if a new intake opens.

Required Documents Checklist

Sponsor's Proof of Canadian Citizenship or Permanent Resident Status
Sponsor's Notices of Assessment (NOA) or tax documents for the three most recent tax years
Proof of Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the sponsor's family size
Proof of Parent-Child or Grandparent-Grandchild Relationship (birth certificates)
Completed Sponsorship and Application Forms
Financial Evaluation for Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship (Form IMM 5768)
Police Clearance Certificates for the sponsored applicant
Medical Examination Results from an approved panel physician
Digital Photos meeting IRCC specifications
Statutory Declaration of Common-Law Union (if applicable)

Document requirements may vary depending on individual circumstances and the specific intake instructions in effect.

Parents and Grandparents Program Application Process

Wait for IRCC to open an Interest to Sponsor window (currently paused; check official updates).
If eligible, submit an Interest to Sponsor form during the open window.
If randomly selected, respond to your invitation to apply within the specified deadline (commonly 60 days).
Prepare your Minimum Necessary Income documentation for the required tax years.
Complete the sponsorship and permanent residence application forms.
Pay the sponsorship, processing, and Right of Permanent Residence fees.
Submit civil documents, medical exam results, and police certificates for the sponsored applicant.
Wait for a decision; if approved, your parent or grandparent becomes a Canadian permanent resident.

Important Notes

Visa approval depends solely on the decision of IRCC.
As of January 1, 2026, IRCC is not accepting new PGP applications; only previously invited 2025 applications are being processed.
Being selected from the Interest to Sponsor pool does not guarantee final approval.
Sponsors must sign a long-term financial undertaking, typically lasting 20 years (10 years in Quebec).
Only one Interest to Sponsor form may be submitted per sponsor per intake period.
The Super Visa remains available as a temporary alternative while the PGP intake is paused.
Fees are generally non-refundable once processing begins.
Information may vary depending on the program's status and individual circumstances.

Why Choose Shivansh Consultants

The Parents and Grandparents Program involves strict income documentation, a competitive invitation process, and a long-term financial commitment. Shivansh Consultants offers documentation support to help you prepare your Minimum Necessary Income evidence, relationship proof, and application forms in advance, so you’re ready when a new intake opens. Our personalized guidance also covers the Super Visa as an interim option for families who want to reunite sooner. With a transparent process and experienced visa consultants, we provide end-to-end assistance and keep you updated on IRCC’s PGP announcements, without ever guaranteeing selection or approval.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Canada's Parents and Grandparents Program currently open?
No. As of January 1, 2026, IRCC is not accepting new PGP sponsorship applications. The most recent intake invited sponsors from a 2020 Interest to Sponsor pool and closed in October 2025; a new intake date has not been confirmed.
How much does PGP sponsorship cost?
Once invited to apply, the government fees total approximately $1,260 CAD per sponsored parent or grandparent, covering the sponsorship fee, processing fee, and Right of Permanent Residence Fee, plus biometrics.

How long does PGP processing take?
Historically, PGP processing has taken approximately 20 to 36 months or more after a complete application is submitted, though this can vary based on application volume and case complexity.
What is the alternative if I can't access the PGP right now?
The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents to visit and stay in Canada for up to five years per entry while families wait for a future PGP intake to open.
Is the PGP sponsorship fee refundable if the application is refused?
The Right of Permanent Residence Fee is refundable if permanent residence is not granted, but the sponsorship and processing fees are generally non-refundable once processing has started.