No New Applications for Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship in 2025: What You Need to Know

The Government of Canada has announced that in 2025 no new applications will be accepted for the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship program under the Family Class. This decision allows the government to prioritize applications submitted in 2024 and ensure a more efficient processing system. With a cap of 15,000 applications, only those already in the system will be processed this year.

Those interested will need to wait for new ministerial instructions for future opportunities. Below, we explain in detail what this measure means and how it might affect you.

Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship under the Family Class

This program aims to reunite families in Canada by allowing citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents. However, the instructions for 2025 introduce significant restrictions for new applications.

No New Applications Accepted in 2025

As of January 1, 2025, the Department of Citizenship and Immigration of Canada will not accept new sponsorship applications for parents and grandparents. This measure will remain in effect until new ministerial instructions are issued.

Processing of Applications Received in 2024

• Application Cap: Only up to 15,000 sponsorship applications received in 2024 will be processed.

• Sponsor Selection: In 2024, invitations to submit applications were sent to sponsors selected randomly from a list created in 2020.

• Application Formats: Applications had to be submitted electronically unless the applicant had a disability that prevented them from doing so.

Sponsorship and Visa Requirements

To be considered for processing, applications must meet the following requirements:

1. Complete Documentation: All applications must include the forms and documents outlined in the official application package provided by the Department of Citizenship and Immigration.

2. Extensions for Completing Applications: If documents are missing, applicants may receive an extension of up to 30 days to submit the missing documents.

3. Clear Deadlines: Applications must have been submitted before the deadline indicated in the invitation to apply.

Impact of the Instructions

• Processing Order: Complete applications submitted within the established deadlines will be processed in the order they were received.

• Incomplete Applications: Applications that do not meet the requirements will be returned along with the applicable fees.

Importance of These Measures

The temporary closure to new applications in 2025 allows the Government to efficiently manage the volume of received applications and prioritize family reunification for those already selected in previous years. Interested applicants should stay tuned for future updates to learn about reopening dates and conditions.

About Immigria

At Immigria, our goal is to help you navigate Canada’s immigration processes with confidence and clarity. If you have questions about sponsoring parents and grandparents or need assistance with an existing application, contact us today for personalized advice.

Source: IRCC

Adapted by Immigria Editorial Team