The eagerly awaited Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) 2023 lottery has officially kicked off, paving the way for numerous families to be reunited in the Great White North. As we delve into the details of this remarkable opportunity, you’ll discover the eligibility criteria, key dates, and alternatives for those who may not secure an invitation this year.
Invitations to Reunite
Between October 10 and October 23, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will be on a mission to connect families. They will extend invitations to apply to a total of 24,200 enthusiastic potential sponsors. These invitations will be sent to lucky potential sponsors selected at random from the remaining submissions pool of 2020. IRCC’s goal is crystal clear: they aim to receive a whopping 15,000 complete applications. So, if you’re one of the generous individuals who submitted an interest to sponsor form back in 2020 but didn’t receive an invitation to apply for the PGP in 2021 or 2022, your opportunity has arrived. Remember to keep a close eye on your email, the one you provided during your 2020 interest submission, as this is where the invitation to apply from IRCC will land. And don’t forget to check your spam folder; sometimes, these important invitations can end up there.
Eligibility Unveiled
Now, let’s delve into the eligibility criteria for the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). The Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) plays a pivotal role in determining eligibility for this program. It serves as proof that a sponsor possesses the financial means to support the individuals they wish to bring to Canada through the PGP. This financial requirement is a critical aspect of the application process. To get a clear picture of the MNI in previous years, check out the official details provided by IRCC.
In all provinces and territories across Canada, with the exception of Quebec, sponsors who are lucky enough to receive an invitation must meet specific requirements. They are required to provide Notices of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for each of the three taxation years immediately preceding their application. This documentation is essential to demonstrate the financial stability needed to support their loved ones.
However, if you reside in Quebec and aspire to sponsor your parent or grandparent, there’s a different process at play. Your income will be assessed by Quebec’s immigration ministry, and it will be based on the provincial income requirements set forth by the Quebec government. Both IRCC and the Quebec government will require a signed undertaking from you, the interested sponsor.
The duration of the undertaking for parents or grandparents varies depending on your location. In all provinces, except for Quebec, the undertaking spans 20 years, reflecting your long-term commitment to your loved ones. In Quebec, the duration of the undertaking is a shorter 10 years. So, ensure you are aware of these crucial details while considering sponsorship.
A Door to Reunification: The Super Visa
For those who may not secure an invitation this year, there’s no need to lose hope. The Super Visa stands as a valuable alternative for reuniting with your parents and grandparents.
The Super Visa is a temporary visa that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their parents and grandparents to Canada from abroad. It offers the invaluable opportunity for parents and grandparents to visit their family in Canada for up to five consecutive years without the hassle of renewing their visitor status. This flexibility allows for extended family gatherings and the creation of lasting memories.
Super Visa holders enjoy the privilege of multiple entries into Canada for up to a decade, making it a convenient option for ongoing family connections. For those who already possess a Super Visa, the good news is that you may have the chance to apply for an extension, allowing you to stay in Canada for an impressive seven years as a visitor.
The Super Visa shines with its accessibility. Unlike the PGP lottery system, the Super Visa is available year-round and is open to all eligible applicants. To be eligible, you should meet a few fundamental requirements:
- You must be a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- You must not be inadmissible to Canada based on criminality or health grounds.
- Demonstrating your ability to meet the income requirements identified by the Low-Income Cut Off (LICO) is a key step.
- You should provide a signed invitation letter from your child or grandchild, affirming a promise of financial support for the duration of your visit, along with a list and the number of people in their household.
Additionally, you must prove that you have medical insurance coverage for at least one year, obtained from a Canadian insurance company, ensuring your health and well-being during your stay.
In conclusion, the Parents and Grandparents Program 2023 lottery offers an exciting avenue for family reunification in Canada. For those eagerly waiting for an invitation, or even for those who may not receive one this year, the Super Visa is a fantastic alternative. It provides flexibility, accessibility, and the opportunity to create lasting memories with your loved ones. Whether through the PGP or the Super Visa, Canada warmly welcomes families to experience the beauty of reunification on its diverse and welcoming soil.
