Starting January 1, 2026, Canadian citizens and permanent residents will no longer be able to submit new applications under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) for their loved ones. Despite this change, there remain effective pathways to bring parents and grandparents to Canada for extended visits. The two primary options are the Parent and Grandparent Super Visa and the Regular Visitor Visa or electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Each pathway offers distinct benefits and requirements.
Faster, Affordable Pathways for Sponsoring Parents to Canada
Parent and Grandparent Super Visa
The Super Visa is designed for long-term family visits. This multiple-entry visitor visa can be valid for up to 10 years. It allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for periods of up to five years at a time, starting from applications submitted on or after June 22, 2023.
- Renewable every ten years.
- Significantly less expensive and quicker to obtain compared to permanent residency.
Eligibility Criteria for the Super Visa
To qualify, the following conditions must be met by both the host and the visitor:
- Host Requirements:
- Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian.
- Age requirement: 18 years or older.
- Must reside in Canada.
- Need to demonstrate minimum necessary income.
- Must sign an invitation letter offering financial support during the visit.
- Visitor Requirements:
- Must apply from outside Canada.
- Must meet admissibility standards.
- Must complete an immigration medical exam.
- Must obtain private medical insurance, valid for at least one year, covering a minimum of $100,000.
Regular Visitor Visa and eTA
For shorter stays, the Visitor Visa or eTA provides effective alternatives. These options depend on the visitor’s country of origin:
- Visitor Visa:
- Required for visitors from countries needing a visa.
- Allows stays typically up to six months per visit.
- eTA:
- Available for citizens from visa-exempt countries traveling by air.
- Can be valid for up to five years, or until the passport expires.
Comparison of Options
Choosing between the Super Visa and a Visitor Visa requires considering the length of stay and ease of application.
- Super Visa:
- Visitor Visa/eTA: Ideal for shorter visits with fewer application requirements, especially if the Super Visa conditions pose challenges.
Conclusion
As the PGP program changes, the Super Visa and Visitor Visa/eTA options emerge as practical solutions for Canadian residents wanting to spend time with their parents or grandparents. Each route has its unique advantages, allowing families to maintain strong connections despite the evolving immigration policies.
