BREAKING: No New Applications for Parents & Grandparents Program (PGP) in 2025
The Canadian government has announced that the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) will not be accepting new applications in 2025. This decision has significant implications for families looking to reunite with their parents or grandparents in Canada. For many individuals and families, the PGP has been a crucial immigration pathway, allowing them to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residency in Canada. The program has always been popular because it offers the opportunity to bring family members to Canada and build stronger bonds in a new, thriving environment.
However, with the recent announcement, the PGP will temporarily close for 2025, meaning no new applications for sponsorship will be processed under this program in the coming year. This announcement has left many hopeful applicants disappointed, especially those who were preparing to submit their applications and join their loved ones in Canada.
This decision was made in light of the Canadian government’s ongoing efforts to streamline the immigration process, prioritize family reunification, and manage the growing number of applications across different immigration streams. The pause in accepting new applications for PGP will allow the government to review and assess the program’s impact and ensure that future applicants are supported in a way that reflects Canada’s immigration goals.
While the suspension of the PGP for 2025 is unfortunate for many families, it is important to remember that this is not the end of your options for family sponsorship and reunification. There are still pathways that can allow you to bring your loved ones to Canada, and our team at Guide Me Immigration is here to guide you through the various alternatives available.
What Does This Mean for You?
The closing of the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) to new applicants means that if you were hoping to apply to sponsor your parents or grandparents in 2025, you will have to wait until the program reopens. For those who were actively preparing their documents or hoping to submit an application, this sudden change in policy may feel like a setback. However, it’s important to note that this pause is not permanent, and the program may open again in the future.
For those who were relying on the PGP to reunite with their family members in Canada, you should be prepared to look for alternative options in the meantime. While there is no direct replacement for the PGP, there are other visa and immigration options that can serve as temporary or permanent solutions for family reunification. These alternatives can still help you bring your loved ones to Canada while the PGP is unavailable.
Alternatives to the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)
If you were planning to use the Parents and Grandparents Program to sponsor your loved ones, there are still other ways to explore family reunification. One of the best alternatives currently available is the Super Visa. The Super Visa is an excellent option for individuals who want to bring their parents or grandparents to Canada for an extended stay, even if they are not eligible for permanent residency through the PGP.
What is the Super Visa?
The Super Visa is a long-term visitor visa that allows parents and grandparents to visit their children or grandchildren in Canada for up to two years at a time. Unlike the standard visitor visa, which allows stays of six months or less, the Super Visa is specifically designed for parents and grandparents who wish to stay with their families in Canada for longer periods. The Super Visa is granted for up to 10 years, and the holder can re-enter Canada multiple times during the visa’s validity period.
To qualify for the Super Visa, applicants must meet certain requirements, such as providing proof of relationship to their Canadian child or grandchild, as well as evidence of sufficient financial support. The Super Visa also requires that applicants undergo medical exams to ensure they are in good health, as they will be staying in Canada for extended periods.
The Super Visa is a great option for families looking to reunite temporarily. It allows for an extended stay, making it possible for parents and grandparents to spend significant time with their loved ones in Canada. In addition, the Super Visa can be renewed or extended, allowing families to continue their time together in Canada as long as they meet the requirements.
What Are the Eligibility Criteria for the Super Visa?
While the Super Visa is an excellent option for parents and grandparents, there are eligibility criteria that must be met in order to qualify. Some of the main requirements include:
- Relationship to the Sponsor: The applicant must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. You must provide proof of your relationship through documents such as birth certificates or adoption records.
- Financial Support: The sponsor (your Canadian child or grandchild) must meet certain income requirements to ensure that they can financially support their parents or grandparents during their stay in Canada. The sponsor must provide a letter of invitation and submit proof of their income (such as pay stubs or tax documents).
- Medical Insurance: The applicant must have valid medical insurance for at least one year from a Canadian insurance company. This insurance is a key requirement to help cover any unexpected medical costs during the applicant’s stay in Canada.
- Health Examination: All applicants must undergo a medical examination as part of the visa application process. This is to ensure that applicants are in good health before entering Canada.
- Other Requirements: Depending on the applicant’s country of residence, additional documentation may be required. For example, applicants from certain countries may need to provide police certificates or additional biometric information.
How to Apply for the Super Visa
The application process for the Super Visa is fairly straightforward, but it can be time-consuming. The process includes submitting the necessary documents, attending a medical examination, and providing proof of financial support. Here is a general outline of the steps involved:
- Prepare Your Documents: Gather all necessary documents, including your passport, proof of relationship to your Canadian child or grandchild, evidence of financial support, and medical insurance coverage.
- Submit Your Application: Submit your Super Visa application online or through a paper application at your local visa office. Be sure to include all required documents and information.
- Medical Examination: As part of the application process, applicants will need to undergo a medical examination. This is a standard part of the Super Visa application.
- Wait for Processing: Once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll need to wait for it to be processed. Processing times can vary depending on the country where you are applying from.
- Receive Your Visa: If your application is approved, you’ll receive your Super Visa, and you can plan your trip to Canada to reunite with your family.
How Guide Me Immigration Can Help You
At Guide Me Immigration, we understand that immigration can be a complicated and overwhelming process. Our team of expert immigration consultants is here to help guide you through the process of bringing your loved ones to Canada. Whether you’re looking for help with the Super Visa, exploring alternatives for family sponsorship, or seeking advice on other immigration programs, we provide tailored solutions to suit your unique needs.
We can assist you with the following services:
- Super Visa Application Assistance
- Family Sponsorship Guidance
- Permanent Residency Applications
- Temporary Resident Visas
- Visitor Visa Applications
- Immigration Advice and Consultations
Our team is committed to providing accurate, up-to-date information and ensuring that your immigration process is as smooth as possible. We will work with you to determine the best solution for your family’s needs, whether you are interested in reuniting temporarily through the Super Visa or exploring other immigration pathways.
Our Locations
- Saskatoon: 535 20th St West, Unit-C, Saskatoon, SK S7M 0X6
- Regina: Unit 170 – 2410 Dewdney Ave, Regina, SK S4R 1H6
- Dhaka: Apt-2D, H-396, R-6 Avenue 3, Dhaka 1216, Bangladesh
📧 Email: info@guidemeimmigration.com
📞 Call: +1 (306) 700 7440
🌐 Website: www.guidemeimmigration.com
🌐 Alternate Website: www.go-get.ca
Conclusion
While the temporary suspension of new applications for the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) in 2025 may be disappointing for many, there are still options available for those looking to reunite with their families in Canada. The Super Visa provides a fantastic alternative for parents and grandparents who wish to visit Canada for extended periods. At Guide Me Immigration, we are here to help you navigate the complex immigration process and find the right solution for you and your family.
Contact us today to learn more about your options, get expert guidance, and start your journey toward reuniting with your loved ones in Canada.
