How the Parent and Grandparent Program Lottery Works in Canada

If you want to bring your parents or grandparents to live in Canada permanently, the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) lottery is the gateway you need to understand. Many Ontario residents are surprised to learn that applying to sponsor a parent or grandparent is not as simple as filing a form — you first have to be randomly selected just to get the invitation to apply. This article explains how that intake process works, what to expect at each stage, and how to protect your place in the queue.

As of writing: IRCC adjusts the PGP program annually — including the number of invitations issued, the intake window, and eligibility requirements. Always verify current details at canada.ca or through a licensed immigration practitioner before acting.

What Is the PGP and Who Runs It?

The Parent and Grandparent Program is a permanent residence pathway under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA). It allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents (and, in some cases, their accompanying family members) to become permanent residents of Canada.

The program is administered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Because demand for PGP spots consistently exceeds supply, IRCC uses a randomized intake system — commonly called the "lottery" — rather than a first-come, first-served queue.

Stage 1 — The Interest to Sponsor Window

Each year (subject to IRCC's schedule), IRCC opens a limited window during which eligible sponsors can submit an interest to sponsor form. This is not an application for permanent residence. It is simply your way of saying: "I would like to be considered."

Key points about the interest window:

• IRCC announces the opening date with short notice — sometimes only a few days in advance.
• The window typically closes within hours or days of opening once enough expressions of interest are received.
• Submitting does not guarantee you will be invited to apply.
• You must meet basic eligibility criteria at the time of submission (Canadian citizen or PR, residing in Canada, above the minimum necessary income threshold).

Practical tip: Set a calendar reminder for early January each year and monitor the IRCC website closely. Missing the window means waiting until the next intake cycle.

Stage 2 — The Random Draw

Once the interest window closes, IRCC randomly selects a set number of potential sponsors from the pool of expressions received. This is the lottery component. IRCC then sends Invitations to Apply (ITAs) to those selected.

How many invitations are issued?

The number of ITAs issued varies year to year and reflects the government's immigration levels plan. Past intakes have ranged from tens of thousands of invitations to smaller draws. IRCC may issue multiple rounds of invitations. Confirm current figures at canada.ca.

What if you are not selected?

Not being selected does not disqualify you from future rounds. You may re-enter in subsequent intake windows. There is no carryover from one year's pool to the next — each intake is a fresh draw.

Stage 3 — Responding to Your Invitation to Apply

If you receive an ITA, you have a limited time (typically a few weeks) to decide whether to proceed and to submit a complete sponsorship application. Missing this deadline forfeits your invitation.

Your application package will include:

• Sponsorship application forms for both sponsor and principal applicant
• Proof of status (citizenship or PR card)
• Income documentation to demonstrate you meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) — see our companion article on MNI requirements
• Proof of relationship (birth certificates, adoption records, etc.)
• Police certificates and medical exams (usually required of the applicant)
• Application fees

Stage 4 — Processing and Permanent Residence

After IRCC receives a complete application, both the sponsor and the person being sponsored are assessed. IRCC may request additional documents or schedule an interview. If approved, the parents or grandparents receive permanent resident status.

Processing times

PGP processing times vary and can span one to several years. Check IRCC's published processing-time tool for current estimates. During the wait, the Super Visa is often used as a bridge — see our companion article on super visa medical insurance for details.

Common Pitfalls to Avoid

Frequently asked questions