Parents and Grandparents Program: Government Leaves Door Open for 2026 Reopening

The Parents and Grandparents Program, which allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residence, has been paused since 2023 amid concerns about housing pressures and processing backlogs. New ministerial instructions suggest the program may return before the end of 2026.

What the Instructions Say

IRCC's updated ministerial instructions do not commit to a reopening date, but they retain the program's legal framework and preserve the intake capacity within the 2026-2028 Immigration Levels Plan. The plan allocates spots for family reunification, and advocacy from major immigrant communities has been consistent and well-organized.

The Super Visa as a Bridge

While the PGP remains paused, the Super Visa provides a meaningful alternative. Parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and PRs can obtain a Super Visa allowing stays of up to five years per visit, with multiple entries permitted over a 10-year validity period. Processing times for Super Visas have improved significantly in early 2026.

How to Prepare Now

Sponsors should ensure they meet the minimum income threshold, which is tied to the Low Income Cut-Off and changes annually. Sponsors should also have recent tax filings and financial documentation in order. Parents and grandparents should maintain valid passports and be prepared to complete medical examinations as required.

Community Pressure Remains Strong

Advocacy groups representing South Asian, Chinese, Filipino, and Caribbean Canadian communities have continued to lobby for the program's return, arguing that family reunification is foundational to immigrant retention and integration outcomes.