Canada’s Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program (PGP) allows citizens and permanent residents to bring their families to Canada permanently. However, with limited spots available annually and strict financial requirements, proper preparation is key.

This step-by-step guide covers everything from eligibility to submission strategies—helping you maximize your chances of success.

1. Sponsor Eligibility Requirements

To qualify as a sponsor, you must:

✅ Be 18+ years old
✅ Be a Canadian citizen or PR (living in Canada)
✅ Meet Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for 3 consecutive years
✅ Sign a 20-year financial undertaking (10 years in Quebec)

Income Requirements (2024 Guidelines)

Your income must meet Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) + 30%:

Proof Required:

• NOA (Notice of Assessment) or T4 slips for the last 3 tax years

• If self-employed: business statements + tax filings

2. How the PGP Process Works

Step 1: Submit an “Interest to Sponsor” Form

• Opens once per year (usually January).

• You enter a lottery system—winners receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Step 2: Submit Full Application (If Selected)

• 60-day deadline after receiving ITA.

• Includes:

  • Sponsor forms (IMM 1344, IMM 5768)

  • Principal applicant forms (IMM 0008, IMM 5669)

  • Financial proof (NOAs, pay stubs, employment letter)

  • Parent’s/grandparent’s documents (passport, marriage certs, police clearance)

Step 3: Medical & Security Checks

• Sponsored relatives must pass:

  • Medical exam (panel physician)

  • Background check (police certificates from all countries lived in for 6+ months)

Step 4: Approval & Landing

• If approved, parents/grandparents get Permanent Residency (PR).

• Processing time: ~20-24 months (varies by case).

3. Key Tips to Strengthen Your Application

✔ Apply with a co-signer (spouse/partner) to combine income.
✔ Check IRCC’s annual quota (2024: ~35,000 applications).
✔ Prepare documents early—delays in medicals/police checks can cause refusals.
✔ Consider the Super Visa as an alternative (10-year multi-entry visa).

4. Common Reasons for Refusal & How to Avoid Them

❌ Insufficient income → Double-check LICO + 30% for all 3 years.
❌ Incomplete forms → Use IRCC’s document checklist (IMM 5771).
❌ Medical inadmissibility → Address health issues proactively.
❌ Criminal record → Apply for rehabilitation if needed.

5. Alternatives If You’re Not Selected in the Lottery

• Super Visa: Allows parents/grandparents to stay for 5 years per visit.

• Provincial Sponsorship: Some PNPs (e.g., Manitoba) have family streams.

• Express Entry: If your parent qualifies independently (rare).

Need Help? We Specialize in PGP Sponsorships!

The PGP process is competitive and complex—but we can help:
✅ Verify your eligibility & income calculations
✅ Prepare a bulletproof application package
✅ Explore backup options (Super Visa, PNPs)

📩 Contact us today: enquiries@finnihtravelsandimmigration.ca

Don’t leave your family reunion to chance—get expert guidance!