Last updated on September 17th, 2023
Canada is widely regarded to have introduced some of the most inclusive policies for immigration in the world, and one of the key pathways for family reunification is the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP).
After a temporary halt, the PGP will reopen this October, bringing joy to countless families waiting to reunite with their loved ones in Canada.
In an official newsletter, IRCC reports that the Government of Canada is set to accept up to 15,000 applications for sponsorship under the PGP this year as they will start sending invitations to apply on October 10, 2023 over the course of 2 weeks.
In this article, our team will shed light on the significance of the PGP, the changes to the program, and how this reopening will impact families across the country.
The Importance of the Parents and Grandparents Program in Canada:
The Parents and Grandparents Program has long been a vital component of Canada’s immigration system, allowing permanent residents and citizens of Canada to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency.
Canadian family reunification program recognizes the importance of strengthening family bonds, bolstering social cohesion and support networks within Canada’s diverse multicultural society.
Temporary Pause and the Need for Reopening:
he PGP was temporarily suspended to address certain concerns about its efficiency and fairness. During this pause, the government took necessary steps to streamline the application process, improve the system, as well as reduce the backlog of applications for future candidates.
This allowed the government to better serve both Canadian sponsors and applicants, ensuring a smoother experience for all involved.
As a part of the program re-opening, IRCC has reported that they will send invitations to apply to a number of randomly selected sponsors from 2020, following the same approach as in 2021 and 2022
Important: If you have submitted an interest form back in 2020 and did not receive an invitation during the last 2 years, you may want to check an email address you provided at the time of submission.
PGP Changes and Improvements for 2023:
With the reopening of the parents and grandparents sponsorship, IRCC has introduced a few notable changes to enhance the program:
- Intake Process: The government has introduced a new intake process, whereby potential sponsors must first express their interest by submitting an online form. This aims to manage the number of applications and ensure fairness.
- Random Selection: To ensure fairness and transparency, the government will conduct a randomized selection of potential sponsors. This move replaces the previous first-come, first-served approach, eliminating the need for anxious rushes to submit applications.
- Income Requirements: Canadian sponsors will need to meet specific income requirements to ensure they can provide for their parents and grandparents without relying on social assistance.
- Faster Processing Times: The government has committed to reducing processing times, ensuring a quicker family reunification process.
Impacts on Families and Communities:
The reopening of the PGP isn’t just a bureaucratic change; it has a profound impact on families and communities across Canada:
- Family Reunification: Families separated by borders can finally come together, contributing to emotional well-being and mutual support.
- Community Integration: Parents and grandparents often play a vital role in childcare and family support, which strengthens communities.
- Economic Contribution: Sponsored parents and grandparents can also make significant economic contributions through their skills and experience.
Did not receive an invitation?
For those who wish to reunite with their families in Canada, but did not receive the invitation this year, fear not! Consider applying for a Super Visa program instead.
Super Visa is a 10-year multi-entry visa that is designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents wishing to come to Canada and spend time with their loved ones.
As Super Visa holders, you can stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit with an ability to extend your stay for an additional 2 years without leaving the country. Similar to PGP, Super Visa has its own requirements including proof of financial support from the sponsoring side, medical examination, as well as proof of health insurance.
Feel free to calculate an instant quote and speak with our insurance advisors today – Super Visa Insurance
Final Thoughts:
The reopening of the Parents and Grandparents Program in Canada this October is a significant step towards fostering family reunification, community building, and inclusive immigration policies.
As the program undergoes changes to enhance its efficiency and fairness, it stands as a testament to Canada’s commitment to supporting family values and diversity.
This fall, countless families will eagerly submit their applications, hoping to soon embrace their loved ones once more on Canadian soil.
The PGP’s reopening represents a beacon of hope for families, reminding us all of the power of family bonds and the inclusivity at the heart of Canadian society.
Photo by Social Soup Social Media from Pexels
