The federal government has suspended the intake of new applications for the Parents and Grandparents Program until further notice. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the decision this Wednesday, citing a need to better manage the immigration system and reduce existing processing backlogs.
Impact on Immigration Levels and Processing
While the intake of new applications is halted, the government confirmed that it will continue to process files already within the system. According to the Plan for Immigration Levels 2026-2028, the department intends to grant permanent residency to a maximum of 15,000 people under this specific category in 2026.
Did You Know?
Alternative Options for Families
Families seeking to bring relatives to Canada may still utilize the super visa, an alternative that does not grant permanent residency but allows for extended stays. The federal government recently eased eligibility requirements for this program to facilitate easier access for citizens and permanent residents.
Super Visa Eligibility and Recent Changes
The super visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit for up to five years at a time. To improve access to this program, Ottawa has implemented two primary changes:
- Lowered the income threshold requirements for sponsoring families.
- Expanded the range of acceptable health insurance options for applicants.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I still apply for the Parents and Grandparents Program?
No, the federal government has suspended the receipt of new applications for this program until further notice.
What is happening to applications already submitted?
The IRCC will continue to process applications that have already been received.
How long can a parent or grandparent stay with a super visa?
The super visa allows eligible parents and grandparents to visit Canada for up to five years at a time without obtaining permanent residency.
How will these changes to the application process affect your family’s long-term planning for reunification?
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