The Parents and Grandparents Program combines sponsor eligibility, multi-year income evidence and an invitation-based intake. In 2026, IRCC says new interest-to-sponsor forms and new invitations are paused until further notice while existing applications continue.
An invitation is required
Do not submit a new sponsorship application unless IRCC invites you under an authorized intake. The program's status can change, so rely on the current official page rather than old intake dates or social-media announcements.
Sponsor eligibility
A sponsor generally must be at least 18, live in Canada, have eligible Canadian status, meet financial requirements and sign an undertaking. The primary residential address must remain in Canada during processing. Quebec has an additional provincial undertaking process.
Income and family size
The sponsor must generally prove the required income for each of the three relevant tax years. Family size includes people the sponsor is already responsible for and the people included in the new undertaking. A spouse or common-law partner may be able to co-sign.
Super Visa may be an alternative
Where sponsorship intake is unavailable, an eligible parent or grandparent may consider a Super Visa for extended visits. It is temporary residence, not permanent residence, and has separate income, insurance, medical and visitor requirements.
Free checklist
- Confirm current intake status
- Do not apply without an invitation
- Check sponsor status and residence
- Calculate family size for each tax year
- Review income evidence
- Assess a co-signer if appropriate
- Review prior undertakings and defaults
- Compare Super Visa as a temporary option
Official sources
Rules, forms and intake policies can change. Every case depends on its complete facts and evidence; this guide does not guarantee eligibility, an invitation or approval.