As you may have heard, Canada has put a pause on new parent and grandparent sponsorship applications until further notice. This is due to the high demand for the popular federal program which allowed Canadians and permanent residents the ability to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residency. The government announced that one of the main reasons they decided on this was to reduce delays, improve the process for families currently waiting to reunite with their loved ones, and slow population growth temporarily, as was announced in the 2025-27 Immigration Levels Plan.
We’ll outline what this means going forward for families with future immigration plans.
Canada Wants to Reduce Immigration Levels Over the Next 3 Years
The federal government is signalling a shift in strategy on reducing immigration levels over the next 3 years and one of the ways they’re doing this is by temporarily pausing new applications for the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program (PGP). As mentioned above, the PGP allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents to immigrate to Canada. Successful applicants gain permanent residency and access to healthcare, social benefits, and other services.
However, due to its popularity, demand often exceeds available spots. For instance, in an annual report to parliament submitted by Immigration Minister Marc Miller, as of the end of 2023 there were over 40,000 parent and grandparent permanent residency sponsorship applications. The average processing time for each application is 24 months.
This pause provides the government with an opportunity to reassess the program’s long-term viability and alignment with Canada’s evolving immigration strategy.
Only 15,000 Applications Submitted in 2024 Will be Processed
Last year, the PGP invited 35,700 randomly selected individuals to submit applications for permanent residency and aimed to accept 20,500 applications, however, they’ve now reduced that number to 15,000.
The Number of Temporary Residents, International Students and Foreign Workers Will Also be Reduced
As of Jan. 21, 2025, there will be new restrictions in place regarding work permits for family members of foreign workers and international students in Canada. Work permits will only be authorized for spouses of certain international students and foreign workers, specifically those enrolled in a master’s program that is 16+ months or are in professional programs such as nursing, engineering, etc.
If you’re not sure if you’re eligible, you can check on the Government of Canada website. Other occupations facing labour shortages, like health care or construction, for example, may also be eligible. The government stated their goal is to cap temporary residents at 5% of the overall population by 2026. In an announcement from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, they said: “The Government of Canada is continuing to strengthen the integrity and quality of our temporary resident programs while supporting the country’s economic goals and labour market needs.”
Why are New Parent and Grandparent Applications Being Paused?
This is a part of Canada’s broader plan to reduce immigration levels. Here are a few reasons why this specific program is being targeted:
- High Demand and Limited Capacity: The PGP consistently attracts more applicants than the system can handle, creating long wait times and processing backlogs.
- Healthcare Costs: Parents and grandparents entering Canada through this program often require greater healthcare services, adding strain to an already stretched healthcare system.
- Housing Shortages: A growing population has intensified the demand for housing, leading to affordability challenges in many regions.
- Policy Realignment: By pausing applications, the government aims to focus on other immigration streams that align more closely with economic priorities, such as skilled workers and international students.
- Economic Sustainability: Policymakers aim to ensure that the economy can absorb new residents effectively, providing adequate job opportunities and maintaining quality of life.
This pause provides the government with an opportunity to reassess the program’s long-term viability and alignment with Canada’s evolving immigration strategy, particularly to reduce immigration levels to balance economic, social, and infrastructural priorities.
While the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program is paused, families still have options to reunite with loved ones temporarily:
Canada Super Visa
The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents to visit Canada for extended periods – up to 2 years per visit, with the possibility of renewal. Applicants must meet financial requirements and obtain medical insurance, but this option offers a temporary solution for families seeking to spend time together.
Visitor Visa
A standard visitor visa allows parents and grandparents to visit Canada for shorter stays, typically up to 6 months. While less flexible than the Super Visa, it remains a viable option for shorter family visits.
Are You Affected by This Pause?
Canada’s decision to reduce immigration levels and pause new applications for parent and grandparent sponsorship reflects the complex balancing act between supporting economic growth and addressing infrastructure and service limitations. While these measures may alleviate pressure on housing and healthcare systems, they also impact families eager to reunite with their loved ones.
For those affected by the pause, alternative options may be available which we can explore together. We encourage you to reach out to our team to discuss your needs and immigration goals.
We Can Explore Your Options Together
With the Oro Immigration team at your side, you can rest assured knowing that we have years of experience helping individuals and families achieve their immigration goals. We help people navigate the complexities of Canada’s immigration system and are there for them every step of the way. As authorized immigration consultants of Canada, we are proud to help you find ways to work, learn and live in this beautiful country.
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