Canadian Parents and Grandparents Lottery Opens for 2023

The highly anticipated Canadian Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) lottery for 2023 is officially underway, promising a chance for families to reunite on Canadian soil. The Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) initiated the lottery on October 10, aiming to send invitations to apply to 24,200 potential sponsors. Let's delve into the details of this exciting development and understand how it could shape the lives of countless families.

Key Dates:

Between October 10 and October 23, the IRCC will begin sending invitations to apply to prospective sponsors. These invitations will be selected at random from the pool of submissions from 2020. The target is to receive 15,000 complete applications.

If you had submitted an interest to sponsor form in 2020 but didn't receive an invitation to apply in 2021 or 2022, keep a close eye on your email, including your spam folder, as the coveted invitation from IRCC might make its way there.

Eligibility for the PGP:

One of the critical eligibility factors for the PGP is the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI). This financial benchmark demonstrates a sponsor's ability to support the individuals they wish to bring to Canada through the PGP. To check the MNI for previous years, visit the official website.

For sponsors in all provinces or territories in Canada (except Quebec), the application process includes providing Notices of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for the three taxation years preceding their application. However, if you reside in Quebec and aspire to sponsor a parent or grandparent, your income will be evaluated based on provincial income requirements. An undertaking from an interested sponsor is also required, as demanded by both IRCC and the Quebec government.

The undertaking for parents and grandparents in all provinces, except Quebec, is a commitment for 20 years. In Quebec, the duration of the undertaking is reduced to 10 years.

The Super Visa Alternative:

If, unfortunately, you don't receive an invitation this year, the Super Visa remains an excellent alternative for reuniting with your parents or grandparents. Unlike the PGP lottery system, the Super Visa is available throughout the year for eligible applicants.

Here are the key features of the Super Visa:

1. It allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their parents and grandparents to Canada from abroad.
2. Super Visa holders can stay in Canada for up to five consecutive years without needing to renew their visitor status.
3. They can enter Canada multiple times for up to 10 years, and some may even apply for an extension to stay in Canada for up to seven years as visitors.
4. There's no lottery system for the Super Visa, making it available year-round for those who meet the eligibility criteria.

Super Visa Eligibility: To be eligible for the Super Visa, an applicant must:

1. Be a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
2. Not be inadmissible to Canada based on criminality or health.
3. Demonstrate the ability to meet the income requirements outlined by the Low-Income Cut Off (LICO).
4. Provide a signed letter from their child or grandchild inviting them to Canada, including a promise of financial support for the visit's duration and information about the household members.
5. Furnish proof of medical insurance coverage for at least one year through a Canadian insurance company.

The opening of the Canadian Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) lottery for 2023 offers hope and opportunity for families yearning to reunite on Canadian soil. While the PGP remains a sought-after pathway, the Super Visa stands as a practical alternative for those who miss out or seek an immediate solution. Keep abreast of updates and requirements to ensure a smooth journey towards reuniting with your loved ones.

Pelican Migration Consultants: Your Pathway to Canada

If you're considering the Canadian Parents and Grandparents Program or the Super Visa, Pelican Migration Consultants can provide expert guidance and support throughout the application process. Our team of experienced professionals is well-versed in Canadian immigration and can help you navigate the complexities of the application and documentation.

At Pelican Migration Consultants, we prioritize your family's reunion and provide tailored solutions that meet your specific needs. Our commitment is to make your journey to Canada as smooth as possible, ensuring that you can cherish every moment spent with your loved ones.

Contact Pelican Migration Consultants today to embark on your path to Canada and enjoy the warmth of family togetherness.