Last Updated On 3 January 2025, 11:11 PM EST (Toronto Time)
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will not accept any new applications for the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship 2025.
PGP is a key pathway to sponsor parents and grandparents for permanent residency in Canada by Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
Here’s everything you need to know about this major update and best alternative to parents and grandparents program.
Table of Contents
In a recent announcement, IRCC confirmed that it will focus solely on processing existing PGP applications submitted in 2024.
The department aims to finalize up to 15,000 sponsorship applications throughout the year 2025.
This decision comes as part of a broader strategy to manage immigration levels and streamline the backlog.
While this move might disappoint many prospective sponsors, alternatives such as the Canada Super Visa remain viable options for family reunification.
The PGP allows Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and registered Indians to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residency in Canada.
Sponsored individuals under this program enjoy the benefits of Canadian permanent residency, including healthcare access and social services.
Due to overwhelming demand, the PGP uses a lottery-based invitation system. Interested sponsors submit an Interest to Sponsor form, and IRCC randomly selects individuals to invite for application submission.
From 2020 to 2024, invitations were issued to sponsors who had applied during the 2020 intake period and this program has not opened for new sponsors since then.
The suspension of new applications for 2025 is closely tied to IRCC’s adjusted immigration targets.
The department has reduced its permanent resident annual targets under the PGP for 2025. Key highlights include:
- 2025 Target: 24,500 PGP landings.
- 2024 Target: 32,000 PGP landings.
By focusing on pending applications, IRCC aims to balance its resources and improve processing efficiency.
This pause underscores the government’s effort to prioritize quality over quantity in its immigration programs.
For those unable to sponsor their parents or grandparents through the PGP, the Canada Super Visa offers an excellent alternative.
This visa allows parents and grandparents to visit Canada for extended periods without applying for permanent residency. Key benefits include:
- Long Validity: The super visa is valid for up to 10 years.
- Extended Stays: Visa holders can stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit without needing to renew their status.
- Extensions: An additional 2-year extension can be requested after the initial 5-year stay.
This option provides greater flexibility and allows for meaningful family reunions, even if permanent residency sponsorship isn’t an immediate option.
For those already in the process of sponsoring their parents or grandparents, understanding current processing times is crucial.
Based on the latest IRCC reports:
- Canada (excluding Quebec): The average processing time is approximately 24 months.
- Quebec: Processing times for PGP applications average around 48 months due to additional provincial requirements.
Applicants are advised to monitor updates on their application status through the IRCC’s online tools.
The suspension of new PGP applications in 2025 marks a significant shift in Canada’s immigration landscape.
While this may limit opportunities for permanent reunification, alternatives like the Canada Super Visa offer hope for families to stay connected.
By addressing backlogs and improving processing times, IRCC is laying the groundwork for a more efficient and equitable system in the years ahead.
Stay tuned for updates on Canada’s immigration policies and explore your options to ensure family reunification remains a reality.
Share this article to help others navigate these changes effectively!
Why is IRCC pausing new PGP applications in 2025?
IRCC aims to focus on clearing the backlog of existing applications while managing reduced immigration targets for 2025.
Can I still sponsor my parents or grandparents in 2025?
New PGP sponsorship applications will not be accepted in 2025. However, you can apply for a Canada Super Visa to reunite with your family temporarily.
Something went wrong. Please refresh the page and/or try again.
You may also like: New Canada laws and rules effective 2025 that you must know
New GST payment to be sent on January 3, 2025
6 New Rules For International Students In Canada For 2025
