Maple News reports that Canadian citizens and permanent residents once again have the opportunity to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency in Canada through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). The 2020 PGP intake period officially opened on October 13 and will close on November 3.
This annual initiative by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) allows Canadians to reunite with family members by granting permanent resident status to sponsored parents and grandparents. To manage high demand fairly, the program uses a lottery system to randomly invite eligible sponsors to submit full sponsorship applications.
Interested individuals must first submit an online ‘Interest to Sponsor’ form within the designated window. Following the submission deadline, IRCC will randomly select up to 10,000 sponsors from the pool and invite them to apply. Those selected will have 60 days to submit their completed applications and fees to IRCC.
Applicants must demonstrate proof of their status in Canada at the time of submission, such as a valid PR card or Canadian passport. The selection process is merit-neutral, with all eligible candidates having an equal chance of being drawn.
Processing times for successful applications currently range from 20 to 24 months. Sponsors must meet certain income requirements to prove they can support their parents or grandparents financially upon their arrival in Canada.
For Quebec residents, the procedure includes an additional step — obtaining a Quebec Selection Certificate (CSQ) after being selected by IRCC. This certificate confirms the province’s approval of the sponsorship and must be submitted to IRCC alongside the federal application.
Maple News highlights that the PGP remains a vital mechanism for family reunification in Canada’s immigration policy, reinforcing the country’s commitment to bringing families together while balancing economic and humanitarian goals.
Those considering applying are advised to gather necessary documents early and act promptly to meet deadlines. The next opportunity to express interest will not open until a future intake period, which IRCC determines annually.