Canada has long been a destination for immigrants seeking better opportunities and a high quality of life. Family reunification is a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration policies, with programs such as the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) playing a crucial role. In 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will send invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residency under the PGP, reviving hopes for many families looking to reunite with their loved ones.
This article provides an in-depth analysis of the PGP, its significance, recent policy changes, and alternative pathways for family sponsorship, including the Super Visa program.
Understanding the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)
The Parents and Grandparents Program is a vital immigration pathway that allows Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and registered Indians to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency in Canada. The PGP strengthens family bonds and contributes to Canada’s social fabric by enabling multi-generational households.
Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors:
- Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian.
- Must meet minimum income requirements, usually based on the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) plus 30%.
- Must commit to financially supporting the sponsored relatives for 20 years (or 10 years in Quebec).
- Must ensure the sponsored relatives do not require social assistance.
Eligibility for Sponsored Parents and Grandparents:
- Must be admissible to Canada based on health, security, and criminality checks.
- Must submit biometrics and relevant documents as required by IRCC.
2025 PGP Invitations: What We Know So Far
Background and Recent Changes
In January 2025, IRCC announced that no new invitations would be sent for PGP applications that year, focusing instead on processing applications from the 2024 intake. However, on March 7, 2025, the government reversed its stance and confirmed that ITAs would be sent in 2025.
This announcement means that individuals who submitted an interest to sponsor form in 2020 may finally receive an ITA in 2025. However, the intake for new sponsor applications remains closed.
How the Lottery System Works
IRCC uses a lottery system to randomly select potential sponsors from the pool of applicants who submitted their interest to sponsor forms in 2020. Since the intake has not been reopened since then, only those who applied in 2020 remain eligible for selection.
Key Takeaways:
- Only individuals who applied in 2020 will be considered for 2025 ITAs.
- No new intake for sponsor applications has been announced yet.
- Further details on the number of ITAs and selection process will be released in the coming months.
Alternative Pathway: The Super Visa Program
Given the limited opportunities under the PGP, many families have turned to the Super Visa program as an alternative. The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents to visit their families in Canada for extended periods.
Super Visa Benefits:
- Valid for up to 10 years.
- Allows multiple entries.
- Enables extended stays of up to five years per visit, with the possibility of an additional two-year extension.
- Does not require a lottery selection process, making it a more accessible option.
Super Visa Eligibility Requirements:
- Sponsors must meet minimum income thresholds (LICO requirements).
- Sponsored relatives must purchase private health insurance from a Canadian or international provider for the duration of their stay.
- Applicants must undergo a medical examination.
- Must demonstrate ties to their home country to prove temporary intent.
Recent Changes to the Super Visa Program:
In response to growing demand, the Canadian government has made several adjustments to the Super Visa program:
- More Insurance Options: Previously, applicants had to purchase health insurance from Canadian providers. Now, international insurance providers are also accepted, making it more affordable and accessible.
- Longer Stay Durations: The extension period for each visit was increased from two years to five years, making the program more attractive to families.
The Impact of Family Reunification on Canadian Society
Family reunification policies, including the PGP and Super Visa, have far-reaching socio-economic implications for Canada.
Economic Contributions
- Parents and grandparents often provide childcare support, enabling younger family members to participate in the workforce.
- Multi-generational households contribute to cost-sharing, reducing the financial burden on individual families.
Social and Cultural Integration
- Reuniting families helps strengthen social ties and improve mental well-being.
- The presence of older family members preserves cultural heritage, ensuring continuity of traditions among immigrant communities.
Challenges and Policy Considerations
While family reunification programs offer immense benefits, there are challenges:
- Long Wait Times: The backlog from the 2020 intake means thousands of families are still waiting for an ITA.
- Income Requirements: The financial criteria may exclude lower-income families from sponsoring their relatives.
- Healthcare Strain: An aging immigrant population increases demand on Canada’s healthcare system.
The government must balance these challenges with its commitment to family reunification while ensuring sustainable immigration policies.
Conclusion: What Should Prospective Sponsors Do?
For those hoping to sponsor their parents and grandparents in 2025, it is essential to stay updated on IRCC announcements and ensure financial eligibility. Since the PGP intake remains closed, prospective sponsors should consider the Super Visa as a viable alternative.
Actionable Steps for Indian Families:
- Check PGP Lottery Updates: Regularly visit the IRCC website for announcements regarding ITAs.
- Consider the Super Visa: If PGP is not an option, apply for a Super Visa to enable long-term visits.
- Prepare Financially: Ensure your income meets LICO requirements for either sponsorship program.
- Secure Health Insurance: Research and purchase suitable insurance for Super Visa applicants.
With evolving policies and shifting immigration landscapes, staying informed is key. Whether through PGP or the Super Visa, Canada continues to offer pathways for Indian families to reunite and build a better future together.
