Step-by-Step Guide to Parent Sponsorship in Canada

Canada’s Parent Sponsorship Program provides an opportunity for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their parents or grandparents to live with them in Canada. This pathway not only reunites families but also strengthens bonds by allowing loved ones to live closer together. However, the application process can be complex and time-sensitive. This guide will break down the process step-by-step to help you successfully sponsor your parents or grandparents.

1. Understand the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program (PGP)

The Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program (PGP) is part of Canada’s Family Class Immigration stream. This program allows eligible sponsors to bring their parents or grandparents to Canada as permanent residents.

Key Benefits:

• Sponsored parents and grandparents receive permanent residency.
• They are eligible for healthcare, work, and study opportunities.
• After fulfilling residency requirements, they may apply for Canadian citizenship.

Key Requirements:

• Sponsors must meet specific eligibility criteria.
• There is a limit on the number of applications accepted each year.

2. Confirm Your Eligibility as a Sponsor

Before applying, it’s crucial to ensure that you meet the eligibility criteria set by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).

Eligibility Requirements:

• Age: You must be at least 18 years old.
• Status: You must be a Canadian citizen, a permanent resident, or a registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
• Residency: You must live in Canada.
• Income: You must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the last three tax years. This income level varies depending on the number of family members.
• Commitment: You must sign an undertaking to provide financial support for the sponsored parents or grandparents for 20 years (10 years in Quebec).

Tip: Use IRCC’s online income calculator to check if you meet the financial requirement.

3. Gather Necessary Documents

The application requires extensive documentation. Missing or incorrect paperwork is one of the most common reasons for delays or rejections.

Documents for the Sponsor:

• Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residency.
• Tax records (Notice of Assessment) for the last three years.
• Proof of income (employment letter, pay stubs, etc.).
• Signed sponsorship agreement and undertaking form.

Documents for the Sponsored Person(s):

• Valid passport or travel document.
• Birth certificate or proof of relationship to the sponsor.
• Police clearance certificates.
• Medical exam results (as required by IRCC).

Tip: Create a checklist to ensure that all documents are complete and up-to-date.

4. Submit an Interest to Sponsor Form

The Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program operates on a lottery system due to high demand. The first step in the application process is to submit an Interest to Sponsor Form online when the program opens.

Steps to Submit the Form:

1. Visit the official IRCC website during the program’s intake period.
2. Fill out the form with accurate details, including your name, address, and email.
3. Submit the form within the specified timeframe.

Important: Only a limited number of forms are accepted each year. Keep an eye on IRCC announcements to know when the intake opens.

5. Wait for the Invitation to Apply

Once you submit your Interest to Sponsor form, IRCC conducts a random draw to invite eligible sponsors to apply. If you are selected, you will receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) via email.

What to Do if Invited:

• Respond promptly: You typically have 60 days to submit your application.
• Review the checklist: Use IRCC’s application guide to ensure all forms and documents are complete.
• Pay the application fees.

If Not Invited: Unfortunately, you will need to wait for the next year’s intake to try again.

6. Complete the Application Package

If you receive an ITA, the next step is to complete the sponsorship and permanent residence application forms.

Components of the Application Package:

1. Sponsorship Application:
   • This includes forms that outline your ability to sponsor, such as the Sponsorship Agreement and Undertaking (IMM 1344).
2. Permanent Residence Application:
   • Forms for the sponsored person(s), including personal details, travel history, and declarations.
3. Supporting Documents:
   • Attach all required documents mentioned in the checklist.

Tip: Double-check that all forms are signed and dated. Errors can cause delays.

7. Pay the Application Fees

The Parent Sponsorship application requires various fees, which must be paid online.

Fee Breakdown:

• Sponsorship application fee: $80 CAD
• Processing fee for the sponsored person: $490 CAD
• Right of Permanent Residence Fee (RPRF): $515 CAD
• Biometrics fee: $85 CAD per person

Keep the payment receipt as proof for your application.

8. Submit the Application

Once your application is complete, submit it to IRCC. Be sure to send your package to the correct processing center as indicated in the IRCC instructions.

Submission Methods:

• Online: For most sponsorship cases, applications are now submitted digitally via the IRCC portal.
• Mail: In rare cases, applications can be sent by post if specified.

Tip: Make a copy of the entire application package for your records before submission.

9. Complete Biometrics and Medical Exams

IRCC requires all sponsored parents or grandparents to provide biometrics (fingerprints and photo) and undergo a medical exam.

Steps for Biometrics:

• Schedule an appointment at an authorized biometrics collection center.
• Bring the biometrics instruction letter (provided after submission).

Medical Exam:

• The sponsored person(s) must undergo a medical exam by an IRCC-approved panel physician.
• Results are sent directly to IRCC.

10. Track Your Application Status

After submission, you can track your application status online using the IRCC application portal or client application status tracker.

Processing Time:

• Parent Sponsorship applications typically take 20–24 months to process.
• Delays may occur due to incomplete documents, additional reviews, or high application volumes.

Tip: Regularly check for updates and respond promptly to any IRCC requests

Conclusion

The Parent Sponsorship Program is a valuable opportunity to reunite with your loved ones in Canada. By following this step-by-step guide and avoiding common mistakes, Parent sponsorship application process you can ensure a smoother application process. Remember, preparation and attention to detail are key to a successful application.

If you have doubts or need assistance, consider consulting an immigration lawyer or consultant to guide you through the process. With careful planning, you can soon welcome your parents or grandparents to Canada and enjoy the benefits of family reunification.

4o