Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship (PR Pathway)
The Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency (PR) in Canada.
Pros:
- Permanent Residency
Sponsored parents and grandparents become permanent residents, with access to health care, work rights, and eventual eligibility for citizenship. - Path to Citizenship
After a few years of residency, they may apply for Canadian citizenship, allowing full participation in civic life. - Access to Public Services
PR status grants access to publicly funded health care and other government services. - Family Reunification
Offers long-term family stability, with no need for visa renewals or travel restrictions.
Cons:
- Limited Intake & Lottery System
IRCC opens the program only once per year, with limited spots and a lottery-style selection process. Demand far exceeds the supply. - Financial Requirements
Sponsors must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for three consecutive years and commit to a 20-year undertaking to financially support the sponsored relatives (10 years in Quebec). - Lengthy Processing Time
It can take 2+ years from expression of interest to final approval and landing. - Permanent Responsibility
Sponsors are financially responsible for the duration of the undertaking, even if family relationships change or financial situations worsen.
Super Visa
The Super Visa is a long-term, multiple-entry visitor visa that allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for extended periods without becoming permanent residents.
Pros:
- Fast Processing
Super Visa applications are typically processed within weeks to a few months, much faster than PR sponsorship. - Long Stay Duration
Parents and grandparents can stay for up to 5 years at a time per visit, with multiple entries allowed over a 10-year period. - No Lottery or Intake Caps
Unlike the PGP, there is no quota or lottery system. - Flexible Option
It’s ideal for families who want parents to visit frequently or stay long-term without permanent immigration.
Cons:
- No Access to Public Healthcare
Super Visa holders must maintain private health insurance from a Canadian provider, which can be costly. - No Work Rights or PR Pathway
Super Visa holders cannot work and have no direct path to permanent residency from this visa. - Financial and Insurance Requirements
The child or grandchild must meet minimum income requirements and buy minimum 1-year medical insurance for the applicant. - Renewal and Travel Limitations
Though valid for 10 years, actual stay durations are limited to 5 years per entry. Overstays or frequent travel could pose future issues.
Which Should You Choose?
- Choose PGP Sponsorship (PR) if:
- You want your parents/grandparents to settle permanently.
- You’re prepared for a long process and can meet strict financial criteria.
- You value giving them access to public services and a path to citizenship.
- Choose the Super Visa if:
- You need a quicker way to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada.
- They only plan to stay temporarily or split time between countries.
- You didn’t get selected in the PGP lottery or can’t meet the sponsorship requirements.
