Canada Reopens Parent and Grandparent Program for 2025: Eligibility and Application

Canada is excited to announce the reopening of its Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) for 2025. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will issue 17,860 invitations to sponsors who applied back in 2020. If you receive an invitation, you must complete two online applications by October 9. Let’s explore the eligibility criteria, application process, and what to expect.

Overview: Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)

The PGP allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residency. This program enables them to live in Canada permanently and access essential healthcare and social benefits. It’s an incredible opportunity for families to reunite.

Who Can Apply in 2025?

The IRCC began sending out invitations to apply (ITAs) on July 28, and this process will unfold over the next two weeks. This year, 17,860 invitations will be distributed, but not everyone can apply.

Eligibility is limited to those who expressed interest in the sponsorship process in 2020 and did not receive an ITA between 2020 and 2024. If you missed the chance to register back then, unfortunately, you cannot apply this year. The IRCC will accept 10,000 completed applications from this selected group.

The Two-Step Application Process

If you receive an ITA, you’ll need to complete two applications:

• Sponsorship Application – to be submitted by you, the sponsor.
• Permanent Residence Application – to be submitted by your parent or grandparent.

Both applications must be submitted online through the IRCC’s Permanent Residence Portal by 11:59 p.m. ET on October 9, 2025. If you are sponsoring more than one parent or grandparent, each will require a separate application. There are rare exceptions for individuals unable to apply online, but these cases require special approval.

Required Forms and Documents

Preparing your application can be complex, so be ready to navigate through several forms. As a sponsor, you must complete the following:

• IMM 1344: Sponsorship Agreement
• IMM 5771: Document Checklist
• IMM 5768: Financial Evaluation

Your parent or grandparent must fill out:

• IMM 0008: Generic Application Form
• IMM 5669: Schedule A – Background/Declaration
• IMM 5406: Additional Family Information

All necessary information can be found in Guide IMM 5772, so make sure to read it thoroughly.

Application Fees

The cost to sponsor one parent or grandparent is CAD 1,205, broken down as follows:

• Sponsorship Fee: CAD 85
• Processing Fee (Principal Applicant): CAD 545
• Right of Permanent Residence Fee: CAD 575

If you include a spouse, partner, or dependent children, additional fees will apply. Moreover, expect extra costs for third-party services, such as medical exams and police certificates.

Final Thoughts

This program is competitive and carefully regulated. If you’ve been waiting since 2020, don’t miss this opportunity. Ensure your paperwork is in order, fees are paid, and documents are uploaded before the deadline.

If you aren’t selected this year, keep an eye out for future announcements. The IRCC frequently updates the program, and new opportunities may arise. Stay hopeful and prepared for the next round of applications!