Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has recently announced important updates to the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) for 2023. This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for immigration to Canada.
The Parents and Grandparents Program, as the name suggests, is designed to grant permanent residency to your parents and grandparents if you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and meet the income criteria.
Historically, IRCC has updated the way it accepts applications for this program annually, which has led to various selection methods, including first-come-first-served and lottery-based systems. However, let’s focus on the latest updates for 2023.
PGP 2023 Update
IRCC has opted not to open a new interest form for applications in 2023. Instead, they will be sending invitations to approximately 24,200 potential sponsors who had submitted interest forms in 2020. The aim is to receive at least 15,000 completed applications for permanent residence.
Unlike previous years, IRCC will not open new forms for fresh applications in 2023 due to the backlog of applications from the 2020 pool. This change in approach ensures that those who expressed their interest in 2020 have a chance to proceed with their applications.
Eligibility Check
If you submitted an interest-to-sponsor form in 2020 but did not receive an invitation to apply in 2021 or 2022, it’s crucial to check the email account you provided in 2020. You may still have a chance to apply in 2023.
Application Process
If you receive an invitation to apply as part of the 2023 intake, you can use the Permanent Residence Portal or the Representative Permanent Residence Portal to submit your applications electronically, streamlining the process.
Immigration Levels Plan
Every year, IRCC releases its Immigration Levels Plan, which outlines its goals for welcoming newcomers to Canada. In 2023, Canada’s newcomer target is 465,000 new permanent residents, aiming to welcome 28,500 parents and grandparents.
Canada plans to increase its newcomer target to 500,000 by 2025, with 36,000 spots allocated for parents and grandparents.
Everything About PGP Sponsorship 2023
Alternatives to PGP 2023
For individuals who cannot wait for permanent residence or wish to explore other options, there are alternatives worth considering.
Super Visa for Parents
The Super Visa is a temporary resident visa designed for parents and grandparents. While it doesn’t grant permanent residency, it allows for extended stays of up to five consecutive years, with the possibility of extending for two more years. This provides an extended visit option for family reunification.
Extensions Available: If you already hold a Super Visa, you may be able to apply for an extension that allows you to stay in Canada for up to seven years as a visitor.
No Lottery: Unlike the PGP program, there is no lottery for the Super Visa. It is available throughout the year, providing more certainty for those seeking to sponsor their parent or grandparent.
Super Visa Eligibility
- To be eligible for the Super Visa, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Be a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Not be inadmissible to Canada due to criminality or health reasons.
- Demonstrate the ability to meet income requirements as determined by the Low-Income Cut Off (LICO).
- Provide a signed letter from their child or grandchild inviting them to Canada, which includes a promise of financial support for the duration of the visit and lists the number of people in the household.
- Show proof of medical insurance coverage for at least one year from a Canadian insurance company.
Humanitarian and Compassionate Grounds Application (HNC)
The HNC application is an avenue to seek exemptions from specific permanent residence criteria on humanitarian grounds. It can be used if you’re unable to maintain eligibility under regular programs. However, it’s essential to note that HNC applications can be challenging and have a lower success rate.
A Step-By-Step Guide to Parents Grandparents Sponsorship
Connect with Elaar Immigration
For expert guidance and support throughout the PGP application process, consider reaching out to Elaar Immigration, led by Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC) Keshav Sharma. We offer specialized services tailored to PGP applicants to help you navigate the immigration process smoothly.
Bringing your parents and grandparents to Canada is an important decision; with proper support, it can become a reality. Contact Elaar Immigration today to explore your options and get started on your journey to reunite with your loved ones in Canada.
We wish you the best in your journey to reunite with your family in Canada!
