The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) helps Canadian citizens and permanent residents sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency. In 2025, IRCC will accept up to 10,000 applications but will select sponsors from the 2020 submission pool instead of opening new applications. 

Those chosen will receive invitations to apply and must submit complete applications within the deadline. With limited spots and high demand, understanding eligibility and the selection process is crucial. Those not selected can explore alternatives like the Super Visa for long-term visits without permanent residency.

Who Can Apply for the 2025 PGP?

IRCC will not accept new applications this year. Instead, it will randomly select sponsors from the 2020 interest-to-sponsor pool. Only those who submitted a form in 2020 will be considered for an invitation in 2025.

To be eligible, a sponsor must:

• – Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• – Be at least 18 years old
• – Live in Canada when submitting the application.
• – Meet the required Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the last three tax years.
• – Commit to 20 years of financial support (10 years in Quebec)

Since invitations are randomly selected, those not chosen may consider alternatives like the Super Visa. Get in touch with the Best Immigration Agency in Edmonton for detailed application process.

How Many Applications Will Be Accepted?

IRCC has confirmed that it will process 10,000 complete applications in 2025. However, the total number of invitations sent out will likely be higher, as some applicants may not complete their submissions or meet eligibility requirements.

The Parents and Grandparents Program is highly competitive, with tens of thousands of potential sponsors hoping to secure a spot. In previous years, demand has significantly exceeded the number of available invitations, making early preparation essential.

Processing Times and Expected Wait Period

PGP applications require thorough assessment, including financial checks and background verification. Processing times vary based on several factors, including the applicant’s country of origin and whether additional documentation is required.

As of February 2025, the estimated processing times for PGP applications are:

• – Outside Quebec: Approximately 24 months
• – Within Quebec: Approximately 48 months, due to additional provincial processing steps

Applicants should be prepared for extended processing times and ensure that all required documents are accurate and complete to avoid unnecessary delays.

Contact the Best Immigration Company in Edmonton for your expected wait period.

Alternative to PGP: The Super Visa

With limited spots in the Parents and Grandparents Program, many may not receive an invitation. The Super Visa offers an alternative, allowing extended visits without permanent residency.

Key Benefits of the Super Visa:

• – Stay up to 5 years per visit
• – Multiple entries for up to 10 years
• – Faster processing than PGP
• – No lottery selection

Applicants need valid medical insurance and must meet financial requirements. The Super Visa helps families reunite without waiting for PGP selection.

Steps for Those Hoping to Apply in 2025

For those who submitted an interest to sponsor form in 2020, it’s important to:

• – Monitor emails for an IRCC invitation
• – Gather financial documents (tax records for three years)
• – Prepare proof of relationship
• – Ensure medical exams and police clearances are ready
• – Submit the application on time if invited

Those not invited can explore alternatives like the Super Visa or other family sponsorship programs.

Final Thoughts

The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) 2025 presents a limited but valuable opportunity for families to reunite in Canada. With only 10,000 spots available, competition is intense, and selection is based on a random draw from the 2020 applicant pool.

For those not selected, the Super Visa offers a strong alternative, providing extended visits without the need for permanent residency. Understanding these options and preparing in advance can make a significant difference for families looking to bring their loved ones to Canada.