Canada has declared a temporary pause to new sponsorship applications for parents and grandparents who want to get permanent residence in the country. This announcement was made by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) on January 4, 2025.
The only choice now is a 10-year super visa, which permits them to stay in Canada for a maximum of five years at once. This statement has shattered the hopes of thousands of immigrants who would like to sponsor their parents to live and settle with them in Canada.
The government explained that in recent years, they have received an overwhelming number of sponsorship applications, especially in 2024. More than 200,000 families submitted applications, but the annual limit is only 40,000. The IRCC has announced its intention to process up to 15,000 applications for the sponsorship of parents and grandparents in the year 2025 to rectify the backlog.
Canadian citizens and permanent residents who want to sponsor their parents and grandparents are significantly impacted by this decision. Many families depend on this program to facilitate reunification with loved ones. Immigrant communities are significantly affected by this suspension, as they rely on older family members for childcare support and to maintain cultural connections.
Super Visa With Permission Up To 5 Years
So, what’s the alternative?
Families can still apply for the super visa program, where parents and grandparents can stay up to 5 years at a time with a scope of renewal. Unlike the sponsorship program, individuals are not allowed to work or study during their stay, and when the visa expires, they have to return to their home country. Nevertheless, applicants have the option to re-apply for a new Super Visa after it expires, provided they fulfill the necessary criteria. Unfortunately, it doesn’t guarantee permanent residency.
Families Can Apply For Visitor Visas
Another temporary solution is to get visitors visas, which will allow them to stay for up to six months (with the option to extend the stay for another 6 months). However, getting visitor visas approved has become difficult in recent years, and the refusal rate has skyrocketed due to the strict measures taken by IRCC.
Will Be Back After Clearing Backlog
The Immigration Department is focusing on clearing the backlog of applications. Authorities indicate that this suspension is intended to decrease wait times and enhance operational efficiency. Nevertheless, a specific date for the program’s reopening has not been provided.
The halt of the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program showcases the difficulties present within Canada’s immigration system. Families are advised to remain updated on policy changes and consider temporary options such as the Super Visa. In the meantime, the government aims to balance between addressing immigration demands and facilitating family reunification.