Maple News reports that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially begun issuing invitations for the 2020 intake of the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). This follows the expression-of-interest submissions collected between October 13 and November 3, 2020.
In response to delays caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, IRCC is working to issue all 2020 invitations in 2021. Up to 10,000 applications will be accepted from this batch. Uniquely, Canada plans to issue up to 40,000 invitations for the PGP this year—a total originally intended to be spread across both 2020 and 2021.
Due to high demand, Canada uses a randomized lottery system to fairly select eligible sponsors from the pool of applicants. Before the random draw takes place, IRCC removes duplicate submissions to provide everyone with an equal opportunity.
Those selected will have 60 days to submit their full applications. If applicants are unable to provide certain documents due to ongoing pandemic-related challenges, they may submit an explanation and request an additional 90 days to complete their application.
IRCC has advised all those who submitted an interest to sponsor form to monitor their email, including junk folders. It’s important to note that only successful candidates will be contacted directly. Applicants can also verify their status through the IRCC website.
Acknowledging the economic impact of COVID-19, IRCC has temporarily eased the income requirement for family sponsors. Previously, sponsors needed to meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) plus 30%. Now, only the basic MNI is required, making the program more accessible to applicants affected by income disruptions last year.
This expansion of the PGP underscores Canada’s commitment to family reunification as a central pillar of its immigration policy. Through these accommodations and increased intake, the federal government is working to address the backlog of interest and bring more families together in 2021.
Stay tuned with Maple News for continuous updates on Canada’s family sponsorship and immigration initiatives.