When planning to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada, two primary pathways are available: the Parent(s) and Grandparent(s) Program (PGP) and the Super Visa. Both options allow your loved ones to join you, but they differ significantly in terms of accessibility, status granted, and processing times. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you choose the right pathway.
Parent(s) and Grandparent(s) Program (PGP) vs. Super Visa: Key Differences
| Feature | Super Visa | PGP |
|---|---|---|
| Accessibility | Open year-round for application | Limited by an intake lottery |
| Typical Wait Time | Around 3 months | Up to 6 years* |
| Status Granted | Visitor | Permanent Resident |
| Maximum Length of Stay | Up to 5 years per visit | Unlimited |
*Processing times for PGP vary based on application cycles. For instance, the 2020 intake issued invitations in 2024, with an estimated 24-month processing time.
Overview of the Super Visa
The Super Visa enables parents or grandparents to visit Canada for up to five years per trip, with the option of multiple entries over a 10-year period. Introduced in June 2023, this extended-stay visa provides flexibility for those looking to visit loved ones without permanent settlement.
Eligibility for a Super Visa
Host Requirements:
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian.
- Be at least 18 years old and residing in Canada.
- Meet or exceed the minimum necessary income and provide a letter promising financial support.
Health Insurance Requirements:
- Purchase a health insurance policy valid for at least one year.
- Coverage must include healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation, with a minimum emergency coverage of CAD $100,000.
Income Requirements for the Super Visa
| Family Size | Minimum Income |
|---|---|
| 1 | $29,380 |
| 2 | $36,576 |
| 3 | $44,966 |
| 4 | $54,594 |
| 5 | $61,920 |
| Each additional person | $7,916 |
Overview of the Parent(s) and Grandparent(s) Program (PGP)
The Parent(s) and Grandparent(s) Program (PGP) allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residency. This program grants benefits like work eligibility, access to healthcare, and other social services.
Eligibility for the PGP
Applicants must:
- Be invited to apply by IRCC.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Live in Canada as a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
- Meet income thresholds over the past three years.
- Sign a sponsorship agreement committing to financial support for the sponsored individuals.
Income Requirements for PGP Sponsorship (2024 Intake)
| Family Size | 2021 | 2022 | 2023 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2 | $32,898 | $43,082 | $44,530 |
| 3 | $40,444 | $52,965 | $54,743 |
| 4 | $49,106 | $64,306 | $66,466 |
| 5 | $55,694 | $72,935 | $75,384 |
| Each additional person | $7,120 | $9,324 | $9,636 |
Application Processes
Super Visa Application Process
- Submit the application while outside Canada.
- Pass a medical examination.
- Provide evidence of strong ties to their home country to ensure voluntary departure after their stay.
PGP Application Process
- Submit an interest-to-sponsor form during the application window.
- Wait for an invitation to apply (randomly selected).
- For Quebec residents, meet additional provincial requirements.
Key Benefits of Each Pathway
Super Visa
- Quick Processing: Applications are usually processed within three months.
- Flexibility: Multiple entries over 10 years.
- Temporary Status: Ideal for short- to medium-term stays without permanent settlement.
PGP
- Permanent Residency: Grants the ability to work, study, and access healthcare.
- Family Reunification: Permanent living arrangements for parents or grandparents.
- Long-Term Benefits: Eligibility for social programs (financial responsibility lies with the sponsor).
Choosing the Right Option
- Choose the Super Visa if your relatives plan to visit for an extended but temporary period.
- Opt for the PGP if you want to establish a permanent residence for your parents or grandparents and meet income requirements.
FAQs
What Are the Health Insurance Requirements for a Super Visa?
Applicants must purchase health insurance from:
- A Canadian insurance company, or
- An approved international insurer, providing at least CAD $100,000 in emergency coverage.
What Are the Wait Times for PGP Applications?
For 2024 applicants, processing times are approximately 24 months, with invitations based on a lottery system.
How Is Family Size Calculated?
Family size includes:
- The sponsor and their immediate family.
- Sponsored individuals and their dependents.
Final Thoughts
Deciding between the Super Visa and the PGP depends on your family’s needs and circumstances. While the Super Visa offers a practical temporary solution, the PGP provides the opportunity for permanent settlement and integration into Canadian society. Assess your goals and eligibility to make the best choice for your family.
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