Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) recently announced important updates to the Parents and grandparents program (PGP) for 2023. This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents to immigrate to Canada.
The Parents and Grandparents Program, as its name suggests, is designed to grant permanent residency to your parents and grandparents if you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and meet the income criteria.
Historically, IRCC has updated the way it accepts applications for this program each year, which has led to various selection methods, including first-come, first-served and lottery-based systems. Let’s focus on the latest updates for 2023, though.
PGP 2023 Update
IRCC has chosen not to open a new interest form for applications in 2023. Instead, they will send invitations to approximately 24,200 potential sponsors who had filed interest forms in 2020. The goal is to receive at least 15,000 applications completed for permanent residence.
Unlike previous years, IRCC will not open new forms for new applications in 2023 due to the backlog of applications from the 2020 pool. This change in approach ensures that those who expressed interest in 2020 will have the opportunity to continue their application.
Eligibility check
If you submitted an interest to sponsor form in 2020 but did not receive an invitation to apply in 2021 or 2022, it is essential to check the email account you provided in 2020. You may have still the possibility of applying in 2023.
Application process
If you receive an invitation to apply for 2023 intake, you can use the Permanent Residence Portal or Representative Permanent Residence Portal to submit your applications electronically, streamlining the process.
Immigration Levels Plan
Each year, IRCC publishes its Immigration Levels Plan, which sets out its objectives for welcoming newcomers to Canada. In 2023, Canada’s newcomer target is 465,000 new permanent residents, with the goal of welcoming 28,500 parents and grandparents.
Canada plans to increase its target of newcomers to 500,000 by 2025, with 36,000 places reserved for parents and grandparents.
Alternatives to PGP 2023
For people who cannot wait for permanent residency or want to explore other options, there are alternatives worth considering.
Super visa for parents
THE Super Visa is a temporary resident visa designed for parents and grandparents. Although it does not grant permanent residency, it allows extended stays of up to five consecutive years, with the option to extend for an additional two years. This provides an extended visit option for family reunification.
Extensions available: If you already hold a super visa, you may be able to apply for an extension that will allow you to stay in Canada for up to seven years as a visitor.
No lottery: Unlike the PGP program, there is no lottery for the Super Visa. It is available throughout the year, providing more certainty to those looking to sponsor their parent or grandparent.
Super Visa Eligibility
- To be eligible for the Super Visa, an applicant must meet the following criteria:
- Be a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Not be inadmissible to Canada for criminal or health reasons.
- Demonstrate the ability to meet income requirements determined by the low-income cutoff (LICO).
- Provide a signed letter from their child or grandchild inviting them to Canada, which includes a promise of financial support for the duration of the visit and indicates the number of people in the household.
- Show proof of medical insurance for at least one year with a Canadian insurance company.
Humanitarian Grounds Request (HNC)
THE HNC application is a possibility to request exemptions from specific criteria for permanent residence on humanitarian grounds. It can be used if you are unable to maintain your eligibility for regular programs. However, it is essential to note that HNC applications can be difficult and have a lower success rate.
Connect with Elaar Immigration
For expert advice and support throughout the PGP application process, consider contacting Elaar Immigration, led by Keshav Sharma, Registered Canadian Immigration Consultant (RCIC). We offer specialized services tailored to PGP applicants to help you navigate the immigration process smoothly.
Bringing your parents and grandparents to Canada is an important decision; with proper support, this can become a reality. Contact Elaar Immigration today to explore your options and begin your journey to reunite with your loved ones in Canada.
We wish you the best in your journey to reunite with your family in Canada!