Key Points
- Starting January 1, 2025, Canada will no longer accept new applications under the Parent and Grandparent sponsorship visa route.
- For 2025, only sponsorship and permanent resident visa applications received in 2024 will be processed.
- Future intakes for new applications have not yet been announced.
Overview
As of January 1, 2025, Canada has temporarily ceased accepting new applications under its Parent and Grandparent Visa program. This decision reflects the government’s effort to manage existing application backlogs and focus on processing previously submitted applications from 2024.
The Parent and Grandparent Visa allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency. While this pathway has been a vital tool for family reunification, the temporary pause limits its availability to applications already submitted under the 2024 intake guidelines.
Key Changes for 2025:
- New Applications:
- Canada will not accept new sponsorship or permanent resident visa applications under the Parent and Grandparent route in 2025.
- Existing Applications:
- Applications submitted in 2024, adhering to the prescribed conditions, will continue to be processed. Sponsors are advised to monitor updates on the status of their applications.
- Future Intakes:
- The government has not yet announced if or when new intakes will resume for the Parent and Grandparent sponsorship program.
The Rationale for the Pause:
The pause is intended to enable immigration authorities to focus on clearing existing backlogs and streamline application processing times. By limiting new applications, Canada aims to ensure more timely and efficient processing for families already in the system.
Looking Ahead
For Sponsors:
- Track Application Progress: If you applied in 2024, you should regularly check your application status via the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal.
- Stay Updated: Monitor announcements from IRCC regarding future application intakes for the Parent and Grandparent Visa program.
For Prospective Applicants:
- Explore Alternatives: Families who missed the 2024 intake may consider other pathways, such as Super Visas, which allow parents and grandparents to visit Canada for extended periods.
- Prepare for Future Opportunities: Gather necessary documentation for future program openings.
Canada’s pause on new applications under the Parent and Grandparent Visa program reflects the government’s commitment to improving processing efficiency and addressing backlogs. While new sponsorship opportunities are temporarily unavailable, families are encouraged to explore alternative pathways and stay informed about future policy updates.
Source: Government of Canada
