Thousands of Canadians will soon receive invitations to apply for parental sponsorship under Canada’s popular Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). If you are hoping to sponsor your parents for PR in Canada, now is the time to check if you’ve been selected.
We’ll walk you through the latest updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), explain how the process works, and provide guidance for those who may not receive an invitation this year.
2025 Canadian Parental Sponsorship Invitations Begin July 28
According to a recent update from IRCC, the 2025 intake for Canadian parental sponsorship will officially open on July 28, 2025. During this intake, 17,860 potential sponsors who had submitted an Interest to Sponsor form in 2020 will receive an invitation to apply to sponsor parents or grandparents for permanent residency.
The government’s goal is to approve up to 10,000 complete applications through the Parents and Grandparents Program this year.
Who Is Eligible to Apply in 2025?
Only individuals who submitted an Interest to Sponsor form in 2020 are eligible to receive an invitation during the 2025 intake. Unfortunately, no new Interest to Sponsor forms will be accepted this year.
If you applied in 2020, it is crucial to monitor your email inbox—including spam and junk folders—for an invitation. Invitations will be issued only via email, and you must act quickly if selected.
If you receive an invitation, you must submit your Canadian parental sponsorship application online through the Permanent Residence Portal or the Representative Permanent Residence Portal, depending on whether you’re applying independently or through an immigration representative.
What If You Don’t Receive an Invitation?
If you submitted your interest in 2020 but did not receive an invitation to apply, don’t lose hope. There are still other ways to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada temporarily.
Consider the Super Visa Program
The Super Visa is an alternative option that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to invite their parents or grandparents to visit Canada for extended periods.
Key benefits of the Super Visa include:
- Multiple entries for up to 10 years
- Initial stays of up to 5 years per visit
- Extensions of up to 2 additional years while inside Canada
Although it doesn’t grant permanent residency, the Super Visa is a valuable option for families waiting for the next round of parental sponsorship invitations or for those who were not selected from the 2020 pool.
Family Reunification Remains a Key Immigration Priority
While Canada has recently announced measures to limit the number of new temporary and permanent residents, family reunification continues to be a core component of its immigration strategy. In fact, 22% of all permanent resident admissions in Canada fall under the family class, which includes the Parents and Grandparents Program.
The Canadian parental sponsorship program reflects the federal government’s ongoing commitment to helping families reunite and build a life together in Canada.
How We Can Help
If you’ve received an invitation to apply, it’s essential to ensure your application is accurate, complete, and submitted within the given timeframe. Errors or omissions can lead to delays—or even refusals—in your attempt to sponsor your parents for PR in Canada.
Our immigration lawyer in Toronto can help you:
- Prepare a complete sponsorship application
- Ensure compliance with all IRCC guidelines and documentation requirements
- Provide legal representation if additional steps or appeals are needed
- Explore alternatives like the Super Visa if you were not invited
Final Thoughts: Take Action Now If You’re Eligible
The window to apply for parental sponsorship in Canada this year is short. If you submitted your interest in 2020 and receive an invitation, do not delay—this is your chance to sponsor your parents or grandparents for Canadian permanent residency.
If you are unsure about your eligibility or how to proceed, contact our team of experienced Canadian immigration lawyers. We can help you navigate the process and increase your chances of a successful application.
Need Help With Canadian Parental Sponsorship?
At the Immigration Law Firm of Matthew Jeffery we specialize in sponsorship applications, family reunification, and super visa consultations. Whether you’re looking to sponsor parents for PR or seeking other pathways for family immigration, we’re here to guide you every step of the way. Fill out a free family sponsorship assessment form to see if we can help you right away.
