Canada is renowned for its compassionate immigration policies and dedication to family reunification. If you’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, you may be wondering how to bring your parents to live with you permanently. The Government of Canada offers a specific program designed for this—parent and grandparent sponsorship. Understanding the ins and outs of how to sponsor parents to Canada is crucial if you want to increase your chances of a successful application. This article provides a comprehensive guide to help you through the process, eligibility criteria, costs, and key considerations.
What is the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program?
The Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program (PGP) is a stream within Canada's family sponsorship category. It allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their parents or grandparents to Canada as permanent residents. Once approved, these family members can live, work, and receive healthcare coverage under Canada's public health system. Eventually, they can apply for Canadian citizenship if they meet the eligibility criteria.
This program is different from the Super Visa, which only offers temporary residency for up to 5 years at a time (with the possibility of extension). The PGP is the best option if your goal is permanent reunification with your parents in Canada.
Who Can Apply to Sponsor Their Parents?
Before diving into how to sponsor parents to Canada, it’s important to confirm your eligibility. To be a sponsor, you must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or registered as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
- Prove that you meet the minimum necessary income (MNI) requirements for three consecutive years prior to applying.
- Sign a sponsorship undertaking, committing to support the sponsored persons financially for 20 years (10 years if you live in Quebec).
- Not be bankrupt, in prison, or under a removal order (for permanent residents).
The MNI is a critical requirement and varies depending on the number of people in your family and the number of people you plan to sponsor.
Step-by-Step Process: How to Sponsor Parents to Canada
Step 1: Submit an Interest to Sponsor Form
Each year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) opens a short window for individuals to submit an Interest to Sponsor form online. Due to high demand, this stage often involves a lottery system. Only a selected number of applicants are invited to submit a full application.
Step 2: Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
If you are randomly selected, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from IRCC. This invitation is time-sensitive and usually valid for 60 days, during which you must gather your documents and submit the complete application.
Step 3: Submit the Sponsorship and PR Application
The application is two-fold:
- Sponsorship application (submitted by you, the sponsor)
- Permanent residency application (for your parents)
You must send both applications together to the IRCC for processing. Be sure to include all required documents and fees to avoid delays or rejections.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Processing times can range from 20 to 24 months or more, depending on the volume of applications and specific circumstances. During this time, IRCC will assess your eligibility and the admissibility of your parents (including medical, criminal, and background checks).
Financial Responsibilities and Undertaking
One of the most essential aspects of how to sponsor parents to canada involves your financial responsibility as a sponsor. You must sign an undertaking promising to support your parents for 20 years from the date they become permanent residents. This means covering basic needs such as:
- Food
- Shelter
- Clothing
- Healthcare not covered by public health insurance
If your parents receive social assistance during this period, you may be required to repay those costs to the government.
How Much Does It Cost?
The total fees for the parent and grandparent sponsorship application are approximately $1,135 CAD per applicant. This includes:
- Sponsorship fee: $75
- Principal applicant processing fee: $490
- Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): $515
- Biometrics: $85 (per person)
There may be additional costs for medical exams, police certificates, and translations of documents, depending on your situation.
Alternatives: The Super Visa Option
If you aren’t selected in the PGP lottery or don’t currently meet the income requirements, consider applying for a Super Visa. This visa allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time, with multiple entries valid for up to 10 years. However, it does not lead to permanent residency.
To apply for a Super Visa, you’ll need to:
- Provide a letter of invitation.
- Show proof of a minimum income.
- Purchase private medical insurance for at least one year.
- Undergo medical exams.
Though temporary, the Super Visa is a strong alternative while waiting to reapply for PGP.
Common Challenges and Tips for Success
- Missed deadlines: Always monitor the official IRCC website for updates on the PGP intake window.
- Incomplete applications: Double-check all forms, documents, and signatures before submission.
- Insufficient income: Consider applying later when your financial situation improves or combining income with your spouse (if applicable).
- Misunderstanding the difference between Super Visa and PGP: Know your goals and choose the correct program accordingly.
Conclusion
Family reunification remains one of Canada’s most cherished immigration priorities. Understanding how to sponsor parents to Canada requires careful planning, financial preparedness, and timely action. While the process can be lengthy and competitive, the emotional reward of bringing your parents closer is priceless.
Whether you’re applying through the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program or exploring the Super Visa route, ensure you stay informed and follow official guidance from IRCC. With the right approach, thousands of Canadian families have successfully reunited—and so can you.