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Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP)
Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) in Canada: Reuniting Families with Open Arms
Are you looking to reunite with your parents or grandparents in Canada? The Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) can help you achieve this goal. Learn more about the program and how to navigate the process with ease.
PGP Intake Overview: What You Need to Know
The IRCC has announced that it will invite a total of 24,200 potential sponsors to apply for the PGP program. However, they will only accept a maximum of 15,000 complete applications. The selection process for the 2023 intake will be the same as in 2021 and 2022. This means that potential sponsors from the 2020 submission pool will be considered for the program.
If you filled out an interest to sponsor form last year but haven’t received an invitation yet, please keep an eye on the email address you provided for any updates. It is important to update your email address if it has changed. For the 2023 intake, the application process will use the user-friendly Permanent Residence Portal or the Representative Permanent Residence Portal, which aligns with the government’s modernization efforts.
Super Visa: An Alternative for Swift Reunions
Please keep in mind that while you are waiting for PGP invitations, you can explore an alternative path to reunite with your parents or grandparents by considering the Super Visa. This visa is valid for up to 10 years and allows multiple entries, with a stay of up to 5 years at a time. You can even obtain extensions, up to 2 years each, without leaving Canada. The Super Visa is an excellent option for Canadian citizens and permanent residents who want to reunite with their families quickly.
Reflecting on PGP 2022:
The intake of the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) for the year 2022 was similar to the current year. The program issued 23,100 invitations with a target of receiving 15,000 complete applications. The invitations were offered only to those who had submitted the interest to sponsor form in the year 2020. The backlog of applications from the previous year still exists, highlighting the importance of prompt updates and communication.
Application Process for Invited PGP Sponsors:
If you are invited to sponsor your parents or grandparents, you will need to submit two applications at the same time. One application is to become a sponsor and another one is for your parents or grandparents to apply for permanent residence. Submitting both applications together online can speed up the process and make it more efficient.
Why No New Interest to Sponsor Forms? What's Next?
Notably, there has been no recent interest in sponsor forms, which raises some questions. One possible reason for this is that Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is prioritizing the existing pool of applicants, but it is unclear. Although the government may face criticism for not accepting new submissions, it seems that its focus is primarily on addressing the backlog of applications.
Understanding Canada’s PGP: An Overview
The Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) in Canada is a part of the Family Class immigration category. It allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents to come and live in Canada. The sponsored individuals gain the status of permanent residency, which gives them unrestricted living and working rights in Canada. They also become eligible for healthcare benefits and have a pathway to obtain Canadian citizenship.
Eligibility Criteria for PGP:
Both sponsors and sponsored individuals are required to meet specific criteria before applying for sponsorship. These criteria include the following:
- The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Meeting the income requirements is mandatory.
- The sponsor must commit to providing financial support for a specific period.
- A sponsorship agreement must be signed, which outlines the responsibilities of both the sponsor and the sponsored individual.
Quebec’s Additional Requirements:
Residents of Quebec must fulfill additional conditions and sign an undertaking with the province. Quebec’s sponsorship requirements complement IRCC’s approval.
Preparing for the Interest to Sponsor Form:
Before filling out the form, make sure to gather all the necessary information and create an electronic copy of your passport or proof of status in Canada. The key details required include personal information, family size, and information about parents or grandparents.
Super Visa: A Swift Alternative for Family Reunion:
If you are experiencing delays or difficulties with the PGP route, you might want to consider the Super Visa program. This program offers an expedited option for parents and grandparents who want to visit their families for an extended period. The initial stay can be up to two years, and the visa is valid for up to a decade.
If you are interested in reuniting with your family in Canada, don’t hesitate to reach out to us at Brampton Immigration Consultancy. Our team of immigration experts can help you navigate the Parent and Grandparent Program, or explore alternative options such as the Super Visa. Your family’s Canadian journey begins with us.
