IRCC has declared that it will make some changes in the parents & grandparents program this year. IRCC will accept over 15,000 applications for sponsorship under the program. 

In addition, on October 10, IRCC will begin sending invitations to apply to 24,200 interred sponsors. Well, this is to obtain up to 15,000 complete applications. 

Due to the forms remaining in the pool of submissions from 2020, ITAs will be sent to random sponsors from the pool instead of opening a new interest to sponsor form. 

So, in case you are invited to apply for the 2023 intake, IRCC will continue using the PR portal or the Representative PR portal, thus enabling the applications to be submitted electronically. 

Immigration Levels Plan 

In 2022, IRCC invited over 23,100 sponsors to sponsor their parents & grandparents with a target of obtaining 15,000 applications. 

Moreover, IRCC releases Immigration Level Plans every year, which it utilizes to guide its operations and set out the goals for welcoming newcomers/ immigrants to Canada. 

This year, Canada’s newcomer target is 465,000. In addition, Canada’s objective is to welcome 28,500 parents & grandparents this year. 

By the year 2025, Canada’s newcomer/ immigrant target is 500,000, along with 36,000 parents & grandparents. 

The Super Visa 

The Super Visa is a popular alternative for permanent residents & Canadian citizens who wish to bring their parents & grandparents to Canada. 

Well, it is a temporary visa that enables parents & grandparents to visit their families for up to five years without even renewing their visitor status.    

Moreover, Super Visa holders can arrive in Canada multiple times for up to 10 years. Individuals who have a Super Visa might be able to apply for an extension that enables them to stay within the country for up to 7 years as a visitor. 

In addition, you must note that there is no lottery for the Super Visa & is offered yearly. Thus, it is an excellent alternative for those seeking more certainty when sponsoring their parents & grandparents. 

In order to be eligible/ qualified, a candidate must: 

  • Be a parent/ grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent inhabitant. 
  • Provide proof that they can meet the income requirements identified by LICO, i.e., Low-Income Cut Off. 
  • Not be admissible in the country based on health or criminality. 
  • Provide evidence of medical insurance coverage with an insurance company in Canada for at least one year. 
  • Provide a signed letter from their grandchild or child inviting them to Canada. This must include a promise of financial/ economic support for the duration of the visit & the list and number of people residing in the household.