Is there an alternative to sponsoring my parents if the PGP is closed?

Yes. The Super Visa is a federal long-stay visa option for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Unlike a regular visitor visa (which typically allows stays of up to six months at a time), a Super Visa allows your parents or grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years per entry, and can be renewed to allow multiple entries over a ten-year period.

To obtain a Super Visa, your parents must show they have purchased qualifying Canadian private health insurance with a minimum coverage amount (set federally), and you as the child or grandchild must demonstrate income above the minimum necessary income threshold for your family size. Your parents must also be admissible to Canada.

The Super Visa does not confer permanent residence — your parents remain temporary residents and must maintain ties to their home country and intent to return. They cannot collect provincial health benefits or most government services during their stay. If your priority is having your parents in Canada permanently, the Super Visa is a bridge strategy while you wait for a PGP opening, not a permanent solution. Speak with an immigration lawyer to compare timing and costs.