Unlock IRCC’s Process For Selecting Sponsors In The Parents Program

The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is one of the most anticipated and highly sought-after immigration programs in Canada. It allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their parents or grandparents to Canada as permanent residents. This program offers a pathway for families to reunite and live together in Canada, but it’s essential to understand how Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) chooses sponsors through this program.

In this blog, we will dive into the process and eligibility requirements for those who want to sponsor their parents or grandparents, the role of the lottery system, and the steps involved in applying for the PGP.

What Is The Parents And Grandparents Program?

The Parents and Grandparents Program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents to become permanent residents of Canada. This program keeps families united and gives individuals an opportunity to live and thrive together in the country. In turn, the sponsored parents or grandparents become permanent residents, allowing them access to healthcare, social services, and other benefits enjoyed by Canadian residents.

How Does IRCC Choose Sponsors For The PGP?

The process of choosing sponsors for the Parents and Grandparents Program can be quite competitive, as there are many more applicants than the available spots. Each year, the Canadian government selects the number of people for sponsorship. IRCC follows a clear set of guidelines to ensure that sponsors are eligible and that the process is fair.

1. Eligibility Requirements For Sponsors

Before applying, potential sponsors must meet certain eligibility criteria. These include:

• Being a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident: The sponsor must be living in Canada and must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. If you are living outside Canada, you cannot sponsor your parents or grandparents under the PGP.
• Age Requirement: The sponsor must be at least 18 years old.
• Financial Ability: The sponsor must meet a minimum income requirement to show they have the financial means to support the sponsored relatives. This ensures that the parents or grandparents will not need government assistance once they arrive in Canada. The sponsor must also sign an undertaking, promising to support the sponsored family members financially for a certain period, which varies based on the age of the parents or grandparents.
• No Criminal Record: A sponsor must not have any serious criminal history, as they are responsible for ensuring the safety and well-being of their sponsored relatives.

2. The Lottery System

In past years, IRCC has used a lottery system to select potential sponsors for the PGP. Due to the high number of applications, IRCC did not have enough spaces to select all applicants. To make the process more fair and transparent, IRCC has implemented a lottery system in which individuals interested in sponsoring their parents or grandparents must first enter a lottery pool.

The process involves two main steps:

• Submitting an Interest to Sponsor Form: Every year, IRCC opens up a window for potential sponsors to submit their interest in sponsoring their parents or grandparents. This form is available on the IRCC website, and individuals must fill it out during the specific application period. You should note that this form only expresses interest, not a full application.
• The Lottery Draw: After the submission period, IRCC randomly selects individuals from the pool of interest forms. Those selected are then invited to apply for sponsorship. It is important to note that being chosen in the lottery does not guarantee approval of the sponsorship application, as the sponsor must still meet all the eligibility criteria and submit the required documents.

3. The Application Process

When the lottery system selects a sponsor, IRCC sends them an invitation to apply. The application package includes detailed instructions on how to submit the required forms and documents. The sponsor and their parents or grandparents will need to provide various documents, including proof of income, identity documents, and health assessments.

IRCC will assess the application based on the eligibility of both the sponsor and the applicants. The sponsor must ensure that all forms are completed accurately and that they provide the necessary documentation to avoid delays. If the sponsor’s application is accepted, the sponsored family members will be granted permanent residency in Canada.

4. Processing Times

The processing time for PGP applications varies based on factors like application completeness and the volume of applications IRCC processes. The IRCC’s goal is to process PGP applications within 20 to 24 months, but this can take longer in some cases. It is important for sponsors to regularly check the status of their applications through the IRCC website.

Why Is The PGP Popular?

The PGP is an essential program for families who want to reunite with their loved ones. It allows parents and grandparents to live with their children or grandchildren in Canada, which is particularly important for families who want to provide care and support for elderly relatives. Canada’s strong healthcare system and high quality of life are major reasons why many people from around the world seek to reunite with family members through the PGP.

Tips For A Successful Application

• Make Sure You Meet All Eligibility Criteria: Before submitting the Interest to Sponsor form, ensure that you meet all the requirements. This includes income requirements, age, and criminal record checks.
• Submit Your Application on Time: If you are selected through the lottery, make sure to submit your full application within the given deadline. Missing the deadline can result in your application being rejected.
• Stay Informed: Keep an eye on the IRCC website for any updates regarding the PGP, including the opening of the lottery and any changes to the process.
• Seek Professional Help if Needed: If you are unsure about the application process or need assistance, consider seeking help from an immigration professional or lawyer who can guide you through the steps.

Conclusion

The Parents and Grandparents Program offers a wonderful opportunity for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their family members to Canada. While the process can be competitive, understanding how IRCC selects sponsors, including the lottery system and the application steps, can help improve your chances. By ensuring you meet all eligibility criteria and submitting your application on time, you can take an important step toward reuniting with your loved ones in Canada.