Parents and Grandparents Program 2026: IRCC Pauses New Applications

On July 15, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a pause on new applications under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). This update matters to Canadian citizens and permanent residents who hope to sponsor a parent or grandparent for permanent residence.

What is changing in 2026?

IRCC will not accept new interest-to-sponsor forms or send new invitations to apply until further notice. The pause does not cancel applications already in progress. IRCC will continue processing existing files and plans to approve up to 15,000 people for permanent residence through the PGP in 2026.

Applicants should distinguish carefully between a sponsorship application already submitted and a new expression of interest. Anyone who has already received an invitation or submitted an application must still meet every deadline and respond to IRCC requests.

An alternative for visits: the Super Visa

Families without immediate access to permanent sponsorship may wish to assess the Super Visa. It is a multiple-entry visitor visa that can allow parents and grandparents to visit their children or grandchildren for up to five years at a time, with multiple entries for up to ten years.

A Super Visa is not permanent residence. Hosts must meet the income requirement and applicants must meet medical insurance and other conditions. The appropriate route depends on the family’s circumstances and intended length of stay.

What families should do now

• If a PGP application is already in process, monitor your online account and respond promptly to requests.
• If you have not received an invitation, be wary of anyone promising access to a new PGP intake while the pause is in effect.
• Assess Super Visa eligibility, including income evidence and medical insurance, before applying.
• Follow IRCC notices because program rules and opening dates can change.

Official source

Read the IRCC notice about the Parents and Grandparents Program for the current official update.

Last updated: July 15, 2026. This article is general information and does not replace official IRCC instructions or individualized advice.