Canada to Issue 10,000 Invitations Under Parents and Grandparents Program Starting 28 July

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is set to issue up to 10,000 invitations starting 28 July 2025, under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), offering a pathway to permanent residency for the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. 

This initiative, a central component of Canada's family reunification efforts, will exclusively target individuals who submitted an interest to sponsor form in 2020.

The decision to draw solely from the 2020 applicant pool reflects ongoing efforts to manage existing application backlogs and ensure fairness within the immigration system. 

The PGP stands apart from temporary visit visas by providing sponsored individuals with access to Canada's healthcare and social services, underlining the country's dedication to family integration. New expressions of interest will not be considered for the 2025 intake. Invitations will be dispatched via email over a two-week period commencing late July. 

Potential sponsors are advised to monitor the email address used during their 2020 submission, including spam folders, to avoid overlooking this opportunity. Successful applicants are required to submit their applications electronically through either the Permanent Residence Portal or the Representative Portal, depending on whether they are applying independently or with the assistance of an authorised representative.

For those not selected, the Super Visa remains a viable alternative. This multiple-entry visa permits parents and grandparents to visit Canada for up to five years per stay, with the option to extend their visit for an additional two years without departing the country. Valid for up to ten years, the Super Visa provides families with flexibility for extended visits without permanent residency. 

Recent policy adjustments, including relaxed health insurance stipulations, have increased the visa's accessibility. The limitation of the 2025 intake to the 2020 pool comes amid broader pressures on Canada’s immigration infrastructure, including reduced targets outlined in the 2025–2027 Immigration Levels Plan and concerns regarding housing and infrastructure capacity. 

While this decision may be disappointing for those who missed the 2020 submission window, it signals IRCC’s commitment to honouring pre-existing commitments before opening new application avenues. The PGP remains a vital but competitive route to family reunification. For those eligible, the coming weeks represent a chance to reunite with loved ones.