Canada's Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is a key pathway for family reunification, allowing citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their loved ones. It provides a chance for parents and grandparents to relocate to Canada permanently, strengthening family ties across generations.
On March 7, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that it will accept up to 10,000 applications, but only from those who submitted interest-to-sponsor forms in 2020. No new applications will be accepted this year, leaving many families looking for alternatives like the Super Visa, which allows extended stays without permanent sponsorship.
Key Takeaways
- 10,000 applications will be accepted in 2025.
- No new interest-to-sponsor forms—only those from the 2020 pool are eligible.
- Processing times: 24 months (outside Quebec), 48 months (Quebec).
- Super Visa allows 5-year stays as an alternative.
PGP 2025: Who Can Apply?
IRCC is not opening new spots for the Parents and Grandparents Program in 2025. This decision follows the pause on new PGP applications that was announced on January 4, 2025. Instead, they will randomly invite potential sponsors from those who submitted an interest-to-sponsor form in 2020. If you missed that, you cannot apply this year.
Why the Restrictions?
The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) has faced significant backlog issues in recent years. Since 2020, demand has consistently exceeded the number of available sponsorship spots, leading to long wait times and frustrated applicants. In previous years, IRCC opted to reuse existing applicant pools rather than open new submissions, prioritizing backlog reduction over new applicants.
The 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan has reduced Canada’s overall immigration targets, meaning fewer spots for family sponsorship. According to AskAïa’s report on the government’s decision to suspend new PGP applications for 2025, Canada plans to welcome 24,500 parents and grandparents in 2025, representing a 20% decrease from previous projections.
How Long Will It Take?
According to the IRCC, if you receive an invitation and apply, here’s how long you may wait:
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Outside Quebec: ~24 months processing time.
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Quebec applicants: Up to 48 months due to provincial admission limits.
Super Visa: The Best Alternative in 2025
If you didn’t apply in 2020, your best option is the Super Visa, which allows:
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5-year stays per visit (with multiple entries for up to 10 years).
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No lottery system—apply anytime.
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Faster processing than PGP.
Recent Changes to the Super Visa
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Extended stay duration: Holders can now stay in Canada for up to five years per entry without needing to renew.
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Easier health insurance requirements: Since January 28, 2025, applicants can obtain insurance from approved foreign providers, making the process more flexible and affordable.
A Real-Life Scenario: The Impact of the PGP Pause
Sophie, a permanent resident in Toronto, had been eagerly waiting to sponsor her parents from India. She submitted an interest-to-sponsor form in 2021, hoping for a chance in the PGP program. Now, with the 2025 PGP intake limited to the 2020 pool, she finds herself without an opportunity to apply. Her parents, who had planned to relocate permanently, must now explore alternatives. Sophie has decided to apply for a Super Visa for her parents, allowing them to visit for extended periods while she waits for future sponsorship opportunities.
Her case reflects thousands of families affected by the PGP limitations. While permanent sponsorship remains out of reach for many, the Super Visa offers a practical way to reunite with loved ones.
Key Super Visa Statistics
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Since 2011, over 267,000 Super Visas have been issued.
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In 2023 alone, more than 73,000 Super Visas were approved, marking a significant increase from 49,000 in 2022.
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The average annual approval rate for Super Visas is around 20,600 applications, but demand has surged in recent years.
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The Super Visa is processed faster than PGP applications, making it a more accessible option for many families.
Super Visa Considerations: Challenges to Keep in Mind
While the Super Visa is a great alternative, there are some important financial and eligibility considerations:
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Health Insurance Costs: Applicants must purchase private health insurance that covers at least $100,000 in medical expenses. The cost varies but can range from $1,500 to $5,000 per year, depending on age and medical history.
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Minimum Income Requirement: The sponsor (child or grandchild) must meet the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) to prove they can financially support the visa holder. This amount changes annually and depends on household size.
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No Path to Permanent Residency: Unlike PGP sponsorship, the Super Visa does not grant PR status, meaning visa holders must renew or leave when their stay ends.
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Medical Exam Requirement: Parents and grandparents must pass a medical exam to qualify, which could be a hurdle for those with pre-existing conditions.
For a more detailed guide on how to apply and the benefits of the Super Visa, check out AskAïa’s full breakdown: Super Visa Parents & Grandparents: Your Guide After PGP Pause in 2025.
What Should You Do Next?
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If you applied in 2020, watch your inbox—IRCC will send invitations in the coming months.
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If you didn’t apply, explore the Super Visa as the best alternative for long-term visits.
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Quebec applicants should prepare for longer waits.
Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Super Visa
Applying for a Super Visa involves several steps. Here’s what you need to do:
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Check Eligibility: Ensure your parents or grandparents meet the eligibility criteria, including a clean medical record and a valid reason for visiting Canada.
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Obtain a Letter of Invitation: You must provide a formal invitation letter stating your financial commitment and proof of relationship.
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Meet the Income Requirement: As the sponsor, you must meet the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) based on your household size.
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Purchase Health Insurance: Secure private medical insurance with at least $100,000 in coverage from a Canadian or approved foreign provider.
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Submit an Online Application: Apply through IRCC’s website, including all required forms, documents, and biometrics.
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Wait for Processing: Processing times vary but are generally faster than PGP applications. Keep track of updates through your IRCC account.
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Plan for Travel & Entry: Once approved, your parents or grandparents can visit Canada for up to 5 years per stay, with multiple entries for up to 10 years.
Stay Updated on Your Options
While the 2025 PGP intake is limited, future changes could expand sponsorship opportunities. More details, including the exact timeline for invitations, will be announced in the coming months. Not sure about your options? Ask Aïa to guide you through the best pathway for family reunification.
