Introduction
The Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship program in Canada is a pathway for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their parents and grandparents to join them in Canada. This program is aimed at promoting family reunification and providing an opportunity for families to be together. Through this program, eligible sponsors can apply to bring their parents or grandparents to Canada and help them become permanent residents.
Understanding Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship in Canada
This program enables eligible sponsors to bring their parents and grandparents to live with them in Canada as permanent residents. The sponsors must meet certain financial criteria to demonstrate their ability to support their sponsored family members financially, and only individuals holding Canadian citizenship or permanent residency, and having no history of sponsorship defaults can sponsor their parents and grandparents
Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors
To be eligible to sponsor their parents or grandparents, potential sponsors must meet certain requirements:
- must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents
- at least 18 years old and residing in Canada
- must demonstrate that they can financially support their parents or grandparents.
- must provide undertaking to support their parents or grandparents for a specified period of time
It is essential to assess your eligibility toavoid unnecessary delays or rejections in the sponsorship application.
Financial Requirements for Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship
Sponsors for the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship program must meet the income requirements vary depending on the number of people they will be responsible for supporting.
A spouse or common-law partner may be a co-signer on the sponsorship application. By combining their gross incomes, they can more easily meet the necessary income requirements
The income is assessed based on the tax years preceding the application submission. Sponsors, including co-signers if applicable, must provide notices of assessment issued by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) as proof of income for the three tax years.
Sponsors who are sponsoring their parents and grandparents in 2024 must meet the income requirements outlined in the following table:
These income requirements vary depending on the number of people the sponsor and the year you are sponsoring. Always check the official website before the submitting your application
Preparing for Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship
The sponsorship process for Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship program involves several steps. Here is an overview of the process:
- Submitting an Expression of Interest
- Receiving an Invitation to Apply
- Gathering Required Documents
- Completing and Submitting the Application
- After Submission – What Happens Next
For sponsors residing in Quebec, there are additional requirements and processes specific to the province. It is important to be aware of the specific guidelines and procedures applicable to Quebec sponsors.
Step 1: Submitting an Expression of Interest
To begin the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship process, submit an Expression of Interest during the opening period. Ensure to provide a valid email address for communication. If selected, you’ll receive an invitation to apply for sponsorship, increasing your chances of moving forward..
Step 2: Receiving an Invitation to Apply
After submitting your Expression of Interest, you’ll enter the PGP lottery. If selected, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) via email. Check your inbox regularly for updates on your invitation status and important communication.
Step 3: Gathering Required Documents
Upon receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship, gather all required documents. Review the document checklist provided by the Canadian government and gather all the required documents. This may include proof of identity, proof of relationship, financial documents, and other supporting documentation.
Step 4: Completing and Submitting the Application
Once you’ve gathered all required documents, complete and submit your Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship application. Ensure forms are filled accurately, with no errors or omissions. Organize documents and labeled them for easy review. Keep the submission receipt for future reference. A complete and accurate application increases the chances of a smooth and efficient review process.
Step 5: After Submission – What Happens Next?
After submission, IRCC reviews your Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship application to ensure you meet sponsorship requirements, including financial capacity, commitment to support, and other eligibility criteria. Respond promptly if any additional documents or information are requested to prevent processing delays.
Common Challenges and Solutions
Sponsoring parents and grandparents for Canadian permanent residence can be challenging. Common issues include application delays, incomplete submissions, and understanding how the process works.
It is crucial for sponsors to thoroughly review the document checklist and also should monitor updates and emails to check for any correspondence from IRCC.
The sponsorship process can be complex, especially for first-time sponsors. It is recommended to seek guidance from an immigration lawyer or consultant who can provide expertise and assist in preparing a complete and accurate application.
Dealing with Application Delays
Dealing with delays in your application from IRCC can be frustrating, but it’s normal for processing times to vary and are influenced by various factors.
To manage this, check IRCC’s website for updates on processing times. If it’s taking longer than expected, contact IRCC for an update using their helpline or online inquiry form.
It is important for sponsors to be patient during the application process and to follow any instructions or requests from IRCC promptly to avoid delays effectively.
Addressing Incomplete Applications
To address incomplete applications challenge sponsors should ensure all required documents are included s per document checklist.
If you are unable to include any required document, please provide a clear explanation for the reason and specify when you will be able to provide it.
Sponsors should check out for IRCC emails that might end up in spam. Checking both the inbox and spam folder regularly ensures no important information is missed, such as requests for additional documents
Legal Obligations and Compliance
The parents and grandparents sponsorship application requires an undertaking agreement and obligations to fulfil it properly.
The undertaking agreement is a legal document that sponsors must sign, committing to support their parents or grandparents financially for 20 years. This agreement outlines the sponsor’s responsibilities and obligations, including providing financial support and ensuring that the sponsored family members do not rely on social assistance.
By signing the undertaking agreement, sponsors are legally bound to fulfill their obligations and provide the necessary support to their parents or grandparents. Failure to meet these obligations may result in legal consequences such as being barred from future sponsorships and reimbursing social assistance.
Prior to signing, it’s crucial for sponsors to understand the terms of the undertaking agreement thoroughly. By doing so and abiding by its conditions, sponsors can fulfill their legal duties and assist their parents or grandparents throughout their journey to permanent residency in Canada.
Conclusion
In summary, if you want to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada, you need a thorough understanding of the eligibility criteria and the sponsorship process.Financial requirements and proper documentation are key aspects to consider before initiating the application process. Addressing common challenges like application delays and incomplete submissions is vital for a smooth sponsorship journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the sponsorship process take?
The sponsorship process for parents and grandparents can take approximately 24 months from start to finish. This timeline can vary depending on various factors, including the volume of applications and processing times.
What if my financial situation changes during the application process?
Financial requirements are an important aspect of the sponsorship process, and sponsors must meet the income threshold based on the total income reported on their Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). If there are any changes in your total income or gross income for the tax years required, it is essential to inform IRCC.
Can I appeal if my sponsorship application is denied?
Yes, it is possible to appeal if your sponsorship application for your parents or grandparents is denied. You typically have the option to appeal the decision to the Immigration Appeal Division (IAD).
What is importance of Undertaking in parents and grandparents sponsorship?
The undertaking agreement is a legal commitment that sponsors are required to sign, pledging to financially support their parents or grandparents for a duration of 20 years. This means providing for their basic needs and preventing them from depending on social assistance throughout this timeframe.
What are the minimum income requirements for parents and grandparents sponsorship?
The income requirements for sponsoring parents and grandparents depend on the sponsor’s income over the last three years. It’s calculated based on the sponsor’s family unit size, including dependents and those being sponsored. These requirements can change, so it’s crucial to consult updated information from IRCC or consult with an immigration lawyer or consultant for the latest details.
If you’re considering sponsoring your parents or grandparents and require assistance with the program requirements, reach out to us for a free assessment!
