Canada PGP Program: Family Reunification Guide 2024

Family reunification is a cornerstone of Canada’s immigration policy, and the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is one of the most sought-after pathways for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their loved ones. If you’re hoping to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada, understanding the PGP process is crucial.

In this guide, we’ll cover:
✔ Eligibility requirements for sponsors and applicants
✔ How to apply step-by-step
✔ Financial obligations you must meet
✔ Latest updates for 2024
✔ How Evola AI can streamline your application

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What Is the PGP Program?

The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residency. Unlike a visitor visa, which is temporary, the PGP leads to full PR status, allowing your family members to live, work, and access healthcare in Canada.

Key Benefits of the PGP

✅ Permanent residency – No need to renew visas every few years.
✅ Access to healthcare – Eligible for provincial health coverage.
✅ Work & study rights – Parents/grandparents can work or study in Canada.
✅ Path to citizenship – After meeting residency requirements.

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PGP 2024: Latest Updates

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has made some adjustments to the PGP program in recent years:

• Application intake method: IRCC now uses a random lottery system for most applications, though some invitations may still be issued based on first-come, first-served.
• Higher income requirements: Sponsors must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the past three years.
• Super Visa as an alternative: If you’re not selected in the PGP lottery, the Super Visa allows parents/grandparents to stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit.

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Eligibility Requirements for Sponsors

To sponsor your parents or grandparents, you must:

✔ Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
✔ Be at least 18 years old
✔ Meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the past three tax years (based on family size)
✔ Sign an undertaking to financially support them for 20 years (or 10 years if in Quebec)
✔ Not be receiving social assistance (unless due to disability)

Income Requirements (2024)

Family Size	2023 Income Required	2022 Income Required	2021 Income Required
2 people	$44,530	$43,082	$32,898
3 people	$54,743	$52,965	$40,444
4 people	$66,466	$64,306	$49,106

Note: These amounts increase with each additional dependent.

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How to Apply for the PGP in 2024

Step 1: Submit an Interest to Sponsor Form

• IRCC typically opens a short window (a few weeks) for potential sponsors to submit an Interest to Sponsor form.
• If selected via lottery, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).

Step 2: Prepare Your Application

• Gather documents, including:
  • Proof of status in Canada (citizenship/PR card)
  • Tax assessments (NOA) for the past three years
  • Birth certificates proving relationship

Step 3: Submit Full Application

• Complete forms (IMM 0008, IMM 1344, etc.)
• Pay fees ($1,080 for principal applicant + $1,085 for spouse, if applicable)

Step 4: Wait for Processing

• Current processing times: 20-24 months (varies by case)

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What If You’re Not Selected? Alternatives to PGP

If you aren’t chosen in the PGP lottery, consider:

🔹 Super Visa – Allows parents/grandparents to stay for up to 5 years per entry (renewable).
🔹 Visitor Visa (TRV) – Shorter stays (6 months at a time).
🔹 Provincial Sponsorship – Some provinces (e.g., Manitoba, Saskatchewan) have family sponsorship streams.

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How Evola AI Can Help

Navigating the PGP process can be complex, but Evola AI simplifies it by:

✅ Checking your eligibility in seconds
✅ Guiding you through document preparation
✅ Providing real-time updates on policy changes
✅ Helping you explore alternatives if PGP isn’t an option

"Evola helped me submit my PGP application correctly the first time—saving me months of stress!" – Priya K., Toronto

👉 Try Evola AI Free to get personalized PGP guidance today!

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Final Thoughts

The PGP program is a life-changing opportunity for families to reunite in Canada. While the process can be competitive, proper preparation increases your chances of success. If you’re not selected this year, the Super Visa remains a great alternative.

Need expert help? Evola AI provides instant, accurate advice tailored to your situation—so you can bring your loved ones to Canada with confidence.

🚀 Start your PGP journey today!