Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced the re-launch of the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) on 28 July 2025. Under this intake, the government will issue up to 10,000 invitations to potential sponsors.
However, this year’s selection will be limited to individuals who submitted an interest to sponsor form in 2020. If you applied then and haven’t been contacted, this could be your opportunity to move forward.
Invitations will be sent by email over a two-week period, beginning 28 July 2025. Applicants are advised to check both their inbox and spam folders regularly during that time.
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What Is Canada’s Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)?
The PGP allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residence in Canada. It is one of the few immigration pathways focused specifically on family reunification.
Successful applicants can bring their family members to Canada for long-term settlement, providing greater security and continuity for immigrant households.
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Who Is Eligible for the 2025 Intake?
Only individuals who submitted the sponsorship interest form in 2020 will be considered in the 2025 round. No new applications will be accepted.
If this applies to you, monitor your email between 28 July and mid-August 2025. Invitations must be responded to online via one of two portals:
- The Permanent Residence Portal (for applicants applying on their own)
- The Representative Permanent Residence Portal (if using an authorized representative)
Didn’t Receive an Invitation? Consider the Super Visa
If you’re not invited to apply under the PGP, there is still another option. The Super Visa offers an excellent alternative for those looking to reunite with parents or grandparents.
Key Super Visa Benefits:
- Multiple entries for up to 10 years
- Stay up to 5 years per visit
- Extend your stay by 24 additional months without leaving Canada
While it doesn’t offer permanent residence, it allows long-term visits and more flexibility than a regular visitor visa.
Why This Matters for Immigrant Families
The PGP is one of Canada’s few immigration streams dedicated entirely to family reunification. For many newcomers, it offers a chance to bring ageing parents and grandparents closer—without the uncertainty of short-term visas or limited stays.
While demand always exceeds supply, staying informed and ready to act increases your chances. If you’re eligible this year, act quickly. If not, consider the Super Visa as a reliable alternative to maintain close family ties.
