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Home Legal Updates

Parents & Grandparents Program 2025: Legal Prep Guide

Lucas Leo by Lucas Leo
July 24, 2025
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Parents & Grandparents Program 2025: Legal Prep Guide
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Bringing your parents or grandparents to Canada is one of the most meaningful ways to reunite your family. Through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), Canadian citizens and permanent residents have the opportunity to sponsor loved ones for permanent residency. But like many immigration programs, the process comes with detailed requirements and changing procedures. 

Table of Contents

  • What is the Parents and Grandparents Program?
  • How PGP Works in 2025
  • Legal Preparation Before You Apply
  • Common Pitfalls That Can Delay or Deny an Application
  • Tips for a Smoother Application Process
  • What Happens After You Submit
  • Final thoughts

What is the Parents and Grandparents Program?

The PGP allows eligible Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residence. The program is part of Canada’s broader effort to promote family reunification. 

To be eligible as a sponsor, you must: 

  • Be at least 18 years old 
  • Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • Live in Canada
  • Meet specific income requirements over the last three tax years

It’s important to note that the PGP is not the same as the Super Visa. While the PGP provides permanent residency, the Super Visa is a long-term visitor visa that allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time. 

How PGP Works in 2025

Each year, immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may update how the PGP is administered. For 2025, here’s how it works:

Lottery System Continues

IRCC will continue to use the randomized selection process to issue invitations to apply. This means that even if you meet all the eligibility requirements, you’ll still need to be selected through a lottery-style draw. 

It’s important to manage expectations, as selection is not guaranteed. If you submitted an interest to sponsor form in previous years and weren’t selected, you may still be in the pool for consideration.

Limited Invitations Available

IRCC plans to issue approximately 17,860 invitations for the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) in 2025, with a goal of accepting 10,000 complete applications. While this is consistent with previous years, it still represents a fraction of the total number of people who hope to sponsor a parent or grandparent. 

If you’re selected, you’ll receive an email invitation, and you’ll have a limited window of time to submit a complete application. Missing this window could mean waiting another year.

Legal Preparation Before You Apply

Before submitting anything, take the time to confirm that you meet all the sponsorship requirements. This means checking not just your status in Canada, but also your financial qualifications. Key legal prep steps:

  • Verify Your Eligibility: Make sure you’re a citizen or permanent resident and have filed taxes for at least the last three consecutive years.
  • Meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI): You’ll need to show proof that your income meets or exceeds the required threshold, which varies depending on the number of people in your household.
  • Gather Essential Documents: Prepare your Notice of Assessments from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), proof of relationship (like birth certificates or marriage certificates), and valid ID documents.
  • Consider Getting Legal Help: An immigration lawyer Canada can help ensure that everything is in order before you apply. They can also explain the terms of the 20-year financial undertaking required for sponsorship.

Common Pitfalls That Can Delay or Deny an Application

Even with good intentions, small errors can lead to big setbacks. Here are some of the most common mistakes applicants make:

Incomplete or Incorrect Forms

IRCC is strict about paperwork. Missing signatures or selecting the wrong document type can delay your application or get it returned entirely. Double-check every section before submitting, and make sure all required forms are current and properly filled out.

Misunderstanding the Undertaking Period

Sponsoring someone under the PGP comes with a 20-year financial commitment. If this isn’t clearly understood or if you don’t meet the income requirements, your application could be denied. Many applicants underestimate this obligation, which covers basic needs like food, housing, and health care not covered by public plans.

Applying Without an Invitation

Only those who receive an invitation from IRCC are allowed to submit an application. Applying without one will result in automatic rejection. It’s important to wait for the official invitation email before moving forward with your submission.

Not Updating Personal Information

If your address or family status changes and you don’t inform IRCC, it could cause confusion or loss of communication. Updates should be made as soon as possible to avoid missing key correspondence or deadlines.

Assuming Past Rules Still Apply

Immigration rules change. Always double-check current guidelines for the year you’re applying. What worked in a previous intake year may no longer apply, especially with new submission portals or adjusted income requirements.

Tips for a Smoother Application Process

Getting everything right the first time can save you months of frustration. Here are a few ways to stay on track:

  • Create Both Digital and Paper Copies: Keep duplicates of everything you submit, just in case you’re asked to re-upload or resend. Having organized backups also makes it easier to reference details later if there are questions or updates needed.
  • Watch for IRCC Emails: Don’t ignore official communication. Responding quickly to any requests helps avoid unnecessary delays. These emails often contain time-sensitive information, so check your inbox and junk folders regularly.
  • Track Deadlines Carefully: Once you receive an invitation to apply, you’ll have a limited window to submit your full application. Don’t wait until the last minute. Setting calendar reminders or using a checklist can help keep everything on schedule.
  • Follow IRCC Updates: Policy changes and deadlines are posted regularly. Sign up for notifications directly from the IRCC website. Staying informed can help you avoid relying on outdated advice or missing newly introduced requirements.
  • Know When to Ask for Help: If you’re unsure about a document or process, consulting an immigration professional can prevent errors and give you peace of mind. It’s better to get guidance early on than to risk having your application returned or refused due to a small oversight.

What Happens After You Submit

After submitting your application, IRCC will begin its review. This typically involves:

  • Initial completeness check
  • Assessment of eligibility (yours and your parents/grandparents)
  • Request for biometrics or medical exams
  • Final decision and issuance of permanent resident visas (if approved)

You can track your application status through the IRCC portal. If your application is refused, you’ll receive a detailed explanation and may be able to reapply in a future intake.

Final thoughts

The Parents and Grandparents Program is a meaningful opportunity to reunite families, but it’s also a process that requires attention to detail, legal awareness, and patience. In 2025, with new tools and updated procedures in place, applicants have more ways to stay organized and get things right from the start.

Don’t rush the process or rely on outdated advice. Take your time, prepare carefully, and seek professional help if you need it. Reuniting with loved ones is worth doing the right way.

Lucas Leo

Lucas Leo

Hi, I’m Lucas Leo, an author and writer at AccordingLaw.com. I’m passionate about delivering the latest legal news and updates according law to keep you informed. Join me as I explore and share insights into the ever-evolving world of law!

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