The Canadian government has announced plans to accept up to 10,000 visa applications under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) in 2025, allowing citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency.
To qualify, sponsors must be at least 18 years old, meet the required income threshold, and commit to financially supporting their relatives. The program, overseen by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), aims to strengthen family ties and facilitate reunification.
For those who do not qualify for the PGP but wish to host their parents or grandparents for extended stays, the Super Visa remains a viable option. The Super Visa grants multiple entries over a 10-year period, with each visit lasting up to five years. Recent adjustments to the program have made it more accessible, including revised health insurance requirements.
Applicants for the Super Visa must apply from outside Canada, meet temporary residence criteria, and provide proof of valid health insurance. Failure to renew coverage before it expires may affect their eligibility to remain in Canada.
As of February 5, 2025, PGP application processing times are approximately 24 months for applicants outside Quebec, while those settling in Quebec may face a 48-month wait due to the province’s family class admission limits.
Super Visa holders, who are not eligible for provincial or territorial health plans, must secure private health coverage. Previously, only Canadian insurance providers were accepted, but IRCC now allows applicants to purchase policies from international insurers.
For shorter visits of six months or less, a standard visitor visa remains an option.
