Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially released details of the 2021 Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), unveiling its largest intake quota to date. Under the updated program, IRCC will invite up to 30,000 Canadian citizens and permanent residents to submit sponsorship applications for their parents and grandparents to gain permanent residency.
A key press briefing was held in Surrey, British Columbia, where Immigration Minister Marco Mendicino outlined the format and application timeline. The 2021 PGP will largely mirror last year’s process, relying again on a lottery-based selection system. In 2020, IRCC opened a three-week expression of interest period, during which eligible sponsors could signal their intent to apply. In January 2021, a lottery was conducted and 10,000 individuals were selected and given 60 days to submit full applications.
This year’s expanded target underscores the Canadian government’s commitment to family reunification, a central pillar of its current immigration strategy. The significant increase from 10,000 to 30,000 invitations reflects growing demand and renewed momentum in family sponsorship processing.
To be eligible to sponsor under the PGP, applicants must meet several key requirements. Sponsors must be at least 18 years old, hold Canadian citizenship or permanent resident status, and meet IRCC’s Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the previous three tax years. They must also sign a sponsorship undertaking agreement, acknowledging financial responsibility for the sponsored family members.
The sponsorship undertaking lasts for 20 years for residents in all provinces except Quebec, where it extends for 10 years. Both sponsors and any co-signers must agree to repay any social assistance received by their sponsored relatives during this period.
With the dramatic rise in applications being processed under the 2021 program, potential sponsors are encouraged to ensure all income and eligibility documents are accurate and up to date to avoid delays.
Further updates on the exact expression of interest period, lottery date, and application deadlines are expected shortly from IRCC. Maple News will continue monitoring the program for developments and guidance on maximizing eligibility.