Canada has announced plans to process 10,000 complete visa applications under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) in 2025.
This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency.
Eligibility and Requirements
To qualify, sponsors must be 18 years or older, meet income requirements, and sign an undertaking agreement for financial support.
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) oversees the program, facilitating family reunification through permanent residency sponsorships.
Super Visa: Alternative for Extended Visits
For extended family visits without permanent residency, the Super Visa remains an alternative option for parents and grandparents.
The Super Visa allows multiple entries over 10 years, with each stay lasting up to five years.
IRCC recently revised health insurance requirements, making the Super Visa application process more accessible for families.
Applicants must apply from outside Canada, meet temporary residence requirements, and provide proof of valid health insurance coverage.
Visa holders must renew their health insurance if coverage expires before their departure from Canada.
Processing Times and Provincial Variations
As of February 5, 2025, processing times for PGP applications are 24 months outside Quebec and 48 months within Quebec.
Super Visa applicants are not eligible for public healthcare, requiring private insurance from approved providers before arrival.
Previously, IRCC only accepted Canadian health insurance, but applicants can now use international insurance providers as well.
For shorter visits of six months or less, families may opt for a standard visitor visa as an alternative.
