Sponsoring Parents and Grandparents to Canada through the PGP
Sponsoring parents and grandparents to immigrate to Canada is possible through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). If your parents or grandparents are approved under this program, they can later apply for Canadian citizenship. If you have received an invitation to sponsor, it’s advisable to consult with a reputable immigration expert.
About the PGP Program
The PGP program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their parents and grandparents to Canada. To qualify, sponsors must meet the following criteria:
- Signed Undertaking: Sponsors must submit a signed undertaking to IRCC, committing to support their parents or grandparents in all aspects of life, including food, shelter, daily utilities, and clothing.
- Financial Responsibility: Sponsors should be financially capable of supporting their parents or grandparents for up to 20 years from the date they become permanent residents.
Application Process
To apply, sponsors must submit the PGP application to IRCC within 60 days of receiving the invitation letter. This includes submitting a letter expressing interest to sponsor. IRCC may randomly select applicants through a lottery system before sending out invitation letters.
While submitting the Interest to Sponsor form, you won’t need to provide documents, but you will be asked for your income details for the last three years. You must also confirm your eligibility to sponsor, providing details about your parents and grandparents. The full PGP application must be completed within 60 days after receiving the invitation letter.
Important Information to Ensure a Complete Application
When filling out the application, ensure you quote the confirmation number from your invitation letter. The application should be thorough and accurate; any errors or omissions may result in refusal. To avoid complications, it’s recommended to consult with an immigration expert who can assist with preparing and submitting the application.
Required documents for the PGP application include:
- Proof of income for the past three years.
- Information about the sponsor’s ability to provide financial support.
- Details about your parents and grandparents.
Language and Inadmissibility Conditions
It’s important to note that language proficiency in French or English is not required for parents or grandparents applying under PGP. Canadian permanent residents or citizens cannot sponsor in-laws, although a spouse can co-apply if they are sponsoring. Additionally, applicants with medical or criminal inadmissibility will not be allowed entry.
Maximizing Your Chances for Success
To maximize the chances of being invited to sponsor, the Interest to Sponsor form must be completed accurately. Professional immigration consultants can guide you through the process to ensure that all forms are submitted properly. Although the processing time for PGP applications is typically around 24 months, hiring an expert may help expedite the process.
Proving Financial Ability for Family Sponsorship
To sponsor family members in Canada, sponsors must demonstrate their financial ability to support both their existing household and those they intend to sponsor. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) uses the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) to assess financial eligibility, which depends on family size and includes all dependents, even those not moving to Canada.
Key Points:
- MNI Requirements: Sponsors must meet income thresholds based on the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) + 30% for three consecutive years (except 2020 due to COVID-19).
- Proof of Income: Sponsors must provide Notice of Assessment (NOA) documents from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for the past three years.
- Parents & Grandparents Sponsorship: Requires exceeding the MNI threshold for three years to ensure financial stability.
- Combining Income: A spouse or common-law partner’s income can be included if they co-sign, making them equally responsible for financial support.
- Financial Responsibility: Ensuring financial stability is crucial, as failing to meet MNI may lead to rejection.
Expert Guidance
Cascade Immigration provides expert consultation to help sponsors meet financial requirements and navigate the family sponsorship process efficiently.
Cascadia Immigration Services – Professional Consultation Services
Cascade Immigration offers professional consultations to help you reunite with your parents and grandparents through options like PGP and the Super Visa program. Visit us today to check your eligibility and get started.
