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Family Reunification
Parent & Grandparent Sponsorship
Bring your parents and grandparents to live with you in Canada permanently. The program opens annually with limited spaces allocated through an interest to sponsor process.
Processing
20-24 months
Total Fees
$1,080 per parent
Undertaking
20 years
Include
Dependents
Program Overview
About Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship
The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residence. Due to high demand, IRCC uses an interest to sponsor process where potential sponsors submit their interest, and a limited number are invited to apply.
In 2024, IRCC invited 24,200 potential sponsors to apply. The program requires sponsors to meet minimum income thresholds for three consecutive tax years, making financial preparation essential.
For those who cannot meet income requirements or were not selected, the Super Visa offers an alternative. It allows parents and grandparents to visit Canada for up to 5 years at a time.
Free Assessment
Find out if you qualify to sponsor your family member. Our RCIC consultants will review your case.
Book ConsultationRCIC License: R515110
Eligibility
Who Can Sponsor & Be Sponsored
Who Can Sponsor
- Canadian citizens or permanent residents
- At least 18 years old
- Living in Canada
- Meet minimum necessary income for 3 tax years
- Sign undertaking to support for 20 years
- Not in default on previous sponsorship undertaking
Who Can Be Sponsored
- Your parents (biological, adopted, step)
- Your grandparents
- Their spouse or common-law partner
- Their dependent children
Documentation
Required Documents
Income Requirements (2024)
- 1 person (yourself): $29,380
- 2 persons: $36,576
- 3 persons: $44,966
- 4 persons: $54,594
- 5 persons: $61,920
- 6 persons: $69,834
- Each additional: +$7,914
Sponsor Documents
- Notice of Assessment for 3 years
- T4/T1 for 3 years
- Employment letter
- Proof of Canadian status
Applicant Documents
- Valid passports
- Birth certificates showing relationship
- Police certificates
- Medical exams
- Photos meeting specifications
Financial Proof
- Bank statements
- Investment accounts
- Property ownership documents
- Proof of settlement funds
Application Process
How to Apply
1
Submit Interest to Sponsor
When IRCC opens the intake period, submit your interest through the online portal. This is typically in October or November.
2
Wait for Invitation
IRCC randomly selects from all submissions. If selected, you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
3
Gather Income Proof
Collect your Notice of Assessment and tax documents for the past 3 years. Your income must meet LICO+ for each year.
4
Complete Application
Submit the full sponsorship application within the deadline (usually 60 days from ITA).
5
Medical and Biometrics
Your parents complete their medical exams and provide biometrics at designated locations.
6
Decision
IRCC reviews and makes a decision. Processing takes 20-24 months on average.
Costs
Government Fees
Sponsorship Fee$75
Principal Applicant$490
Dependent Child$155
Total Estimate$1,080 per parent + Right of PR Fee $515 each
Fees are subject to change. Check IRCC website for current fee schedule. Additional costs may include medical exams, police certificates, and translation services.
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
How much income do I need to sponsor my parents?
You must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (LICO+30%) for three consecutive tax years. For 2024, sponsoring two parents with yourself in the household requires $44,966 annual income.
Can my spouse income count toward the requirement?
Yes, if your spouse or common-law partner signs as a co-signer, their income is added to yours. They also become jointly responsible for the 20-year undertaking.
What if I was not selected in the lottery?
Consider the Super Visa as an alternative. It allows your parents to stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit without requiring permanent residence.
Can I sponsor parents if I am self-employed?
Yes, self-employment income counts. You need to show it on your Notice of Assessment. The income type does not matter, only the total amount.
What is the 20-year undertaking?
You agree to financially support your parents for 20 years after they become PR. If they receive social assistance during this time, the government can seek repayment from you.
Can my parents work in Canada after getting PR?
Yes, once they have PR, they can work for any employer in Canada. They also become eligible for provincial health insurance.
Ready to Sponsor Your Family?
Our RCIC consultants have helped thousands of families reunite in Canada. Book a consultation to discuss your pgp sponsorship case.