The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is one of the most popular family reunification pathways in Canada. Each year, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) accepts a limited number of applications from Canadian citizens and permanent residents who wish to sponsor their parents or grandparents.

But for 2025, there are some important updates — and not everyone is eligible. Here’s what you need to know to maximize your chances of success.

 

Who Is Eligible for PGP 2025?

IRCC has not opened a new Interest to Sponsor intake form since 2020. That means:

• If you submitted an Interest to Sponsor form in 2020, you remain in the pool and may be randomly selected in the 2025 draw.
• If you did not submit in 2020, you cannot apply in 2025. Instead, your best option is to explore alternatives such as the Super Visa.

In 2025, IRCC plans to accept up to 10,000 complete sponsorship applications. Invitations to Apply (ITAs) will be sent to randomly selected sponsors from the existing 2020 pool — the same process used from 2020 through 2024.

📌 Key takeaway: If you’re not in the 2020 pool, you cannot be selected for PGP 2025.

 

Financial Eligibility for PGP Sponsorship

To sponsor parents or grandparents, you (and your co-signer, if applicable) must demonstrate that you meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) based on your family size.

 

How to Calculate Family Size

Include:

• Yourself (the sponsor)
• Your spouse/common-law partner (and their dependent children)
• Your dependent children
• Anyone you previously sponsored (if the undertaking is still in effect)
• The parent(s) or grandparent(s) you are sponsoring, along with their spouse/partner and dependent children

Tips for a Successful PGP Application in 2025

Even if you’re eligible, approval depends on careful preparation. Follow these best practices:

1. Ensure Income Compliance
• Double-check that you meet MNI for all three years.
• If your spouse is co-signing, include their income and dependents correctly.
2. Keep Documents Organized
• Submit complete forms with accurate details.
• Avoid inconsistencies that may trigger delays or refusal.
3. Plan for Delays
• With processing times up to 48 months, consider applying for a Super Visa so your parents can visit Canada in the meantime.
4. Stay Updated
• Monitor IRCC announcements closely for ITA release dates and updated intake targets.

 

The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) 2025 offers hope for thousands of families — but only those who submitted an Interest to Sponsor form in 2020 remain eligible. For everyone else, the Super Visa is the most practical route to reunite with loved ones.

If you are in the PGP pool, success depends on proving adequate income, submitting a complete application, and staying patient through long processing times. With careful planning, your family reunification goals in Canada are achievable.

 

This article is intended for informational and educational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. The views expressed are those of the author and are based on personal/ professional experience and publicly available sources at the time of writing. Readers should consult official IRB documentation or seek qualified legal counsel for case-specific guidance. The author assumes no liability for actions taken based on the content of this article.