How does sponsoring a parent or grandparent for permanent residence work?

Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor parents and grandparents for permanent residence under the federal Family Class. This is a federal program — IRCC administers it and sets the rules. Because demand far exceeds spots available, IRCC periodically opens the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) through a lottery or interest-to-sponsor intake. Not everyone who submits an interest-to-sponsor form will be invited to apply.

Income requirements for sponsoring parents or grandparents are higher than for spousal sponsorship and must be met for several consecutive years. The sponsor must demonstrate sufficient income to support the sponsored persons above a minimum threshold for the entire family size.

If a permanent resident application is not immediately accessible, the Super Visa is an alternative that allows parents and grandparents to visit Canada for extended periods — generally up to five years per entry — without needing to become permanent residents. The Super Visa has its own requirements, including Canadian-issued health insurance. Speak with a lawyer to understand whether to pursue sponsorship, the Super Visa, or both simultaneously given current intake timelines.