The Government of Canada has made a significant announcement that brings hope to countless families aiming to reunite with their loved ones. Earlier this year, Canada’s immigration authorities, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), declared that 10,000 applications would be accepted for processing under the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program (PGP). However, in response to overwhelming demand and Canada’s ongoing commitment to family reunification, this number has now been increased to 17,000 applications, allowing more families to reunite in Canada.

Ahmed Hussen, Canada’s Immigration Minister, confirmed this expansion of the program last Thursday, further reinforcing the Canadian government’s commitment to immigration and family reunification.

Canada’s Commitment to Family Reunification

Canada has a long-standing tradition of supporting family immigration. Through various programs, Canada aims to provide opportunities for families to live together, fostering a strong support system for newcomers. The Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program is one of the most popular family immigration pathways, offering permanent residence to the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. This increase in application numbers reflects Canada’s commitment to family unity and the social and economic benefits that come with it.

Why the Increase?

The increase from 10,000 to 17,000 applications for 2018 is part of the Canadian government’s broader immigration strategy, targeting higher immigration numbers to meet labor market demands, boost economic growth, and strengthen family connections. According to Minister Hussen, this decision aligns with Canada’s immigration goals and aims to make it easier for families to stay together.

With Canada’s immigration goals prioritizing skilled immigrants, refugees, and family sponsorship, the increased cap for the PGP will contribute to the government’s target of welcoming 1 million newcomers by 2023. Family reunification is a core principle of Canadian immigration policy, and programs like the PGP highlight the government’s dedication to fostering a supportive environment for both Canadian families and their relatives abroad.

Changes to the 2018 Program

The Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program has undergone significant changes over the years. The program now operates on an invitation-based system, where potential sponsors first submit an “Interest to Sponsor” form online. The IRCC then randomly selects individuals from this pool and invites them to submit a sponsorship application.

This new system is designed to make the application process fairer and more efficient, moving away from the previous first-come, first-served approach that led to significant wait times and challenges for applicants.

For 2018, individuals who submitted an Interest to Sponsor form between January 2 and February 1 were eligible for the randomized selection process. The recent announcement means that those who were not selected previously may now have another chance to apply, as the IRCC continues to invite additional sponsors to submit their applications.

Key Criteria for Sponsors

If you are interested in sponsoring your parents or grandparents, there are several criteria you must meet to be eligible:

1. Residency Status: You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

2. Age: Sponsors must be 18 years or older.

3. Financial Requirements: Sponsors must demonstrate the ability to financially support their parents or grandparents. This includes meeting the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the past three tax years. Sponsors may also include their spouse or partner’s income to meet this requirement.

4. Sign an Undertaking: As a sponsor, you must sign an undertaking agreeing to financially support your parents or grandparents for 20 years from the time they become permanent residents.

5. Invitation to Apply: Potential sponsors must have been invited to apply through the randomized selection process before submitting an application.

These requirements are essential to ensure that sponsors can provide for their family members and help them integrate smoothly into Canadian society.

Benefits of Sponsoring Parents and Grandparents

Sponsoring parents or grandparents to come to Canada offers numerous benefits, not only to the family but also to the country as a whole. Here are some ways in which the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program supports Canada’s broader social and economic goals:

1. Social Support for Immigrant Families: Having parents and grandparents close by provides emotional and social support, which can be invaluable to immigrant families adjusting to life in Canada. The presence of extended family members can make a significant difference, helping to ease the transition and reduce the pressures on immediate family members.

2. Enhanced Economic Stability: With grandparents and parents in Canada, many immigrant families find it easier to balance work and family obligations, as grandparents can often assist with childcare and household responsibilities. This support can lead to increased labor market participation among working-age immigrants.

3. Strengthening Communities: Reuniting families contributes to more vibrant and diverse communities. Extended family members enrich cultural traditions and community engagement, making Canada an even more inclusive and multicultural society.

Applying for the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program

The application process for the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program includes several steps, each of which requires careful preparation to ensure accuracy and completeness.

1. Submit the Interest to Sponsor Form: This form is typically open for a limited time each year, usually in January. Ensure that you submit this form during the specified period to be considered for an invitation.

2. Wait for an Invitation: The IRCC selects potential sponsors randomly and sends out invitations. If you receive an invitation, you can then proceed with your application.

3. Complete the Sponsorship Application: After receiving an invitation, you’ll need to gather all required documents, including proof of income, residency, and relationship to the applicant. Make sure to review the requirements carefully, as missing information or incorrect documents can delay the application process.

4. Submit the Application within the Given Deadline: After receiving an invitation, sponsors must submit a complete application within a specified timeframe. Late or incomplete applications may not be processed.

5. Await Approval: The processing times can vary, but once approved, parents or grandparents receive permanent residence, allowing them to live with their families in Canada.

Final Thoughts on Canada’s PGP Update

This increase in the number of applications accepted under the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program offers hope to many families hoping to reunite with their loved ones in Canada. With this update, the Canadian government has demonstrated its commitment to a compassionate and family-friendly immigration policy that prioritizes family reunification and promotes social stability.

If you’re interested in sponsoring your parents or grandparents, it’s essential to stay updated on IRCC announcements and be prepared to act quickly during the application period. The increased cap is a promising development, but demand remains high, and the application process is competitive. Working with a knowledgeable immigration consultant can help you navigate the process smoothly and increase your chances of success.

Ready to Sponsor Your Family Members?

The Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program presents a wonderful opportunity for Canadian families to reunite with their loved ones. If you’re eager to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada and enjoy the benefits of having your family together, consider starting your application process today.

With the recent update, the time has never been better to act. Contact us to learn more about eligibility, requirements, and how you can make your dream of family reunification a reality in Canada. Let us help you navigate the process and support your family’s journey toward a brighter future together.