CANADA: Canada has revealed plans to accept up to 10,000 complete visa applications for sponsorship under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) in 2025. Under this initiative, Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency.
To qualify, sponsors must be at least 18 years old, meet a specific income threshold, and commit to financially supporting their family members.
Managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), the program is designed to foster family reunification. For those seeking longer stays without pursuing permanent residency, the Super Visa offers an alternative.
This visa enables multiple entries to Canada over a 10-year period, with each visit lasting up to five years, and recent changes to health insurance requirements have made it more accessible.
Applicants for the Super Visa must apply from outside Canada, satisfy temporary residence conditions, and present proof of valid health insurance from an approved provider. If the coverage lapses before departure, visa holders may be required to renew their policy to retain eligibility.
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As of February 5, 2025, PGP application processing times are estimated to be approximately 24 months for applicants outside Quebec, while those applying for settlement in Quebec face processing times of around 48 months due to the province’s family class admission targets.
It is important to note that Super Visa holders must have private health coverage, as they are not eligible for provincial or territorial health care plans.
Previously, only Canadian health insurance was accepted, but IRCC now permits policies from international providers. For those planning visits of six months or less, a visitor visa remains a valid option.
