Options to Bring Your Parents and Grandparents to Canada: Super Visa and PGP
Reuniting with family members is an essential aspect of the immigration process for many people. Canada recognizes the importance of family reunification and offers several options for those looking to bring their parents and grandparents to the country. Two popular methods are the Super Visa and the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP). This article provides an overview of both programs, eligibility requirements, and the application process.
Super Visa
The Super Visa is a temporary resident visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit Canada for up to two years per visit without needing to renew their visa. It is valid for up to ten years and allows for multiple entries.
Eligibility Requirements
- The applicant must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- The sponsor (Canadian citizen or permanent resident) must meet a minimum income threshold to support the visiting relative financially.
- The applicant must have valid Canadian medical insurance coverage for at least one year.
- The applicant must undergo a medical examination to ensure they do not pose any health risks to Canadians.
- The applicant must provide a letter of invitation from their Canadian sponsor, which includes a written commitment of financial support.
Application Process
To apply for a Super Visa, applicants must submit an online application form, along with the required supporting documents, such as proof of the sponsor’s financial support, a copy of the invitation letter, and medical insurance coverage. Once the application is submitted and processed, the applicant may be required to attend an interview at their local visa office.
Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP)
The Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) is a permanent residency option for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. This program allows eligible sponsors to bring their parents and grandparents to Canada as permanent residents, offering them the opportunity to live, work, and eventually apply for Canadian citizenship.
Eligibility Requirements
- The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and must be at least 18 years old.
- The sponsor must meet a minimum income threshold for the three consecutive years preceding the application, demonstrating their ability to financially support their parents or grandparents.
- The sponsor must sign a sponsorship agreement committing to support the parents or grandparents financially for a specified period, depending on their age and relationship to the sponsor.
- The applicant must pass medical, criminal, and security checks to ensure they do not pose any risks to Canadians.
Application Process
Due to the high demand for the PGP, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) uses an online Interest to Sponsor form to manage applications. Potential sponsors must first submit this form during the annual intake period. If selected, they will receive an invitation to submit a full sponsorship application, along with supporting documents, within a specified timeframe.
Conclusion
Both the Super Visa and Parent and Grandparent Program offer valuable options for reuniting families in Canada. While the Super Visa allows for extended visits, the PGP provides a pathway to permanent residency for eligible parents and grandparents. Understanding the requirements and application process for each option can help you determine the best course of action for your family’s unique situation.