June 3, 2025
Canada Expands Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program for 2025
In a significant shift aimed at promoting family reunification, the Canadian federal government has announced an expansion of its Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). As per the Ministerial Instructions published in the Canada Gazette on March 22, 2025, the government will process up to 25,000 sponsorship applications in 2025 — a notable increase from the previously announced cap.
A Reversal in Policy
Earlier this year, in January 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) had stated that no new applications would be accepted under the PGP in 2025. At that time, the government set a maximum processing limit of 15,000 applications, all of which were to come from the existing 2024 intake pool.
However, that position began to change when, on March 7, 2025, the government announced it would issue invitations in 2025 after all, though no revised cap was mentioned at the time. The March 22 publication confirmed that the cap would increase to 25,000 applications, to include submissions from both the 2024 and 2025 intakes.
Who Is Eligible?
Canadian citizens and permanent residents who submitted Interest to Sponsor forms in 2020 — and have not yet received an invitation to apply — are once again in the running. When the program opens its intake for 2025, these individuals may be selected through the PGP’s lottery-based invitation system.
Why the Change Matters
The PGP is a cornerstone of Canada’s family reunification efforts. It offers a pathway to permanent residence for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Demand for the program has consistently outpaced supply, leading to long wait times and a competitive selection process.
Since the last intake round in 2020, all invitations to apply have been drawn exclusively from that pool. With this new decision, the government is not only expanding the cap but also signaling its intent to continue drawing from the 2020 group, ensuring more families have the opportunity to reunite in Canada.
Looking Ahead
The increased application cap is a welcome development for many families awaiting their turn to bring loved ones to Canada. While the government has not yet opened up a new round of interest-to-sponsor submissions, the continued reliance on the 2020 pool indicates a structured and phased approach.
As Canada continues to refine its immigration policies to reflect humanitarian and demographic priorities, the expanded PGP cap in 2025 is a positive sign for those hoping to be reunited with their families.
Need Help Applying?
Navigating immigration programs can be complex — and timing is critical. If you’re hoping to sponsor your parents or grandparents under the 2025 PGP intake, consult the experts at MyWorld Immigration. Our team is here to guide you through the process and maximize your chances of success.
📞 Get in touch today and bring your family closer tomorrow.