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  • Immigration Processing Times August 2025 – IRCC’s Latest Update

    Immigration Processing Times August 2025 – IRCC’s Latest Update

    The latest IRCC processing times were updated as of August 6, 2025, crucial for anyone planning to apply now.

    August 2025 Processing Times by Category

    Based on ICC Immigration’s report (August 7, 2025):

    A. Citizenship

    • Grant of Citizenship: ~10 months (no change)
    • Proof of Citizenship: ~5 months (stable)
    • Renunciation of Citizenship: ~5 months (down by 2 months)

    B. Permanent Resident (PR) Cards

    • New PR Card: ~40 days (faster by 5 days)
    • PR Card Renewal: ~28 days (slower by 7 days)

    C. Family Sponsorship

    • Spousal (Outside Canada, Non-Quebec): ~13 months
    • Spousal (Inside Canada): ~36–40 months
    • Parents/Grandparents (Non-Quebec): ~36 months
    • Parents/Grandparents (Quebec): ~48 months

    D. Economic Class Immigration

    • Express Entry – CEC: ~5 months
    • Express Entry – FSWP: ~7 months
    • Express Entry PNP: ~8 months
    • Non-Express Entry PNP: ~20 months
    • Start-Up Visa: ~52 months
    • Self-Employed Program: ~60 months

    E. Temporary Visas (Visitor, Study, Work)

    • Visitor Visas (Outside Canada): India ~31 days, Philippines ~30 days, Pakistan ~43 days, USA ~20 days
    • Super Visa: India ~99 days, USA ~102 days
    • Study Permits: India ~3 weeks, USA ~8 weeks
    • Work Permits (Outside Canada): India ~6 weeks, Nigeria ~8 weeks
    • Work Permits (Inside Canada): ~181 days

    4. Key Trends & Insights

    • Start-Up Visa & Self-Employed streams show significantly longer processing times, stretching over 4–5 years.
    • Family sponsorships, especially inside Canada and in Quebec, face some of the longest delays.
    • Visitor visas and study permits are relatively fast, offering promising timelines if documentation is complete.
    • Express Entry remains the most efficient pathway, with moderate processing durations.

    How to Improve Your Chances

    • Always submit a complete and accurate application (check IRCC’s checklist).
    • Track updates regularly—IRCC revises timelines weekly (for PR cards) or monthly (for citizenship and sponsorship).
    • Take additional steps if applying in Quebec, due to its dual provincial–federal jurisdiction that contributes to longer delays.
    • Consider alternatives if your chosen stream shows extended timelines (e.g., look into Express Entry vs non-Express Entry PNP).

    August 2025 processing times paint a mixed picture: most categories remain steady, but long delays persist in family and self-employment streams. Staying informed, choosing the right pathway, and submitting complete applications are essential for smoother visa processing.

  • Alberta Prioritizes Construction Jobs in Latest Immigration Draw

    Alberta Prioritizes Construction Jobs in Latest Immigration Draw

    In a July 2025 Alberta PNP draw, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP) targeted construction worker occupations through its Express Entry–aligned Priority Sector stream. A total of 39 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) were issued, with a minimum CRS cut‑off of just 66.

    This draw is part of Alberta’s strategy to prioritize key sectors—Construction, Agriculture, Aviation, and Healthcare—under its enhanced streams aimed at supporting economic growth and labor market needs

    Why This Matters to Construction Workers

    Construction professionals—including carpenters, masons, heavy‑equipment operators, and project supervisors—can significantly benefit from this draw. The low CRS threshold and sector-specific invitations present an accessible path for candidates who may not meet federal Express Entry minimums but are in high demand within Alberta.

    Draw Results at a Glance

    DateStreamOccupation FocusInvitations IssuedCRS Cut‑off
    July 2025Alberta Express Entry – Priority SectorsConstruction3966

    Eligibility & Stream Overview

    To qualify for an invitation under the Express Entry–aligned construction stream:

    1. You must have an active Express Entry profile, listing a primary occupation in an eligible NOC construction role.
    2. A job offer in Alberta from a local employer in that eligible occupation is strongly encouraged.
    3. You must have a CRS score of at least 66 (though most successful candidates may score higher to be competitive)

    Alberta also operates the Alberta Opportunity Stream (AOS) for candidates already working in the province, but Priority Sector draws through Express Entry remain a faster route for many construction professionals.

    Industry Context & Backdrop

    With Canada facing a national shortage of construction workers—short by an estimated 64,000 jobs—Alberta’s targeted invitation approach is part of a broader labour market response. Additionally, a federal pilot project is underway granting legal status to undocumented construction workers, further emphasizing the sector’s critical labour demand.

    This latest draw demonstrates Alberta’s commitment to attracting skilled construction talent through lower CRS thresholds and sector‑targeted pathways. If you’re a construction professional with Express Entry eligibility and a relevant Alberta job offer, this could be a timely opportunity to move your permanent residency process forward.

    Stay updated with Alberta PNP draw announcements and assess your eligibility using Alberta’s official score calculator. For personalized guidance, consider consulting a licensed Canadian immigration advisor.

  • BC’s West Kootenay Unveils Employers for Rural PR Pathway under RCIP

    BC’s West Kootenay Unveils Employers for Rural PR Pathway under RCIP

    The West Kootenay region in southeastern B.C. has officially published its list of designated employers under the Rural Community Immigration Pilot (RCIP), offering foreign workers a direct pathway to permanent residence in select rural communities including Nelson, Castlegar, Trail, Kaslo, Nakusp, Creston, and others

    Why the Designated Employer List Matters

    Only job offers from these officially designated employers—in five priority sectors—qualify candidates for a community recommendation under the RCIP. Employers must be approved, offer eligible positions, and support newcomer settlement to maintain their status

    Priority Sectors & Eligible Occupations

    West Kootenay RCIP supports employment in these five key sectors:

    • Health
    • Education, law, social & community services
    • Sales & service
    • Trades, transport & equipment operators
    • Manufacturing & utilities

    Eligible occupations include 19 NOC codes such as:

    • Carpenters, cooks, early childhood educators, health care aides
    • Transport truck drivers (≥ 75% duties within the West Kootenay region)
    • Heavy-duty equipment mechanics, material handlers, painters, social/community service workers, office support staff, and more, each with CLB language level requirements of 4–6 .

    Sample List of Designated Employers by Sector

    According to the official listing last updated July 23, 2025, designated employers include:

    Health sector:

    • Ancron Medical Services (Nelson)
    • CareCorp (Mountain Lake Village, Nelson)
    • Castleview Care Centre (Castlegar)
    • Misha Zibin Society (Grand Forks)
    • Trail Association for Community Living

    Education & Community Services:

    • Blueberry Creek Community School (Castlegar)
    • Brent Kennedy Learning Centre (South Slocan)
    • Community Connections Support Services (Trail/Nelson)
    • Four Winds Daycare, Golden Bears Children’s Centre (Rossland), Kootenay Family Place, Songbird Early Learning Centre (Nelson), Silly Monkeys Childcare (Castlegar), and more

    Sales, Retail, Food & Accommodation:

    • Boston Pizza (Castlegar), Kootenay Tamil Kitchen (Nelson, Creston), Ashley Furniture (Trail), Ainsworth Hot Springs Resort, The Adventure Hotel, Kootenay Co‑op Grocery, El Taco, Ferraro Foods, Mainstreet Diner, and others across Nelson, Trail, Castlegar, Creston, Grand Forks, Slocan, Rossland

    Trades, Transport & Equipment Operators:

    • A3 Plumbing (Nelson), Ace Couriers (Castlegar/Grand Forks), Martech Electrical Systems (Castlegar), Paradise Painters (Nelson), The Sutherland Group (Salmo), Valor Painting (Nelson), and more

    Manufacturing & Utilities:

    • Kalesnikoff Lumber (Thrums), Kalesnikoff Mass Timber (Castlegar), Spearhead (Nelson), Nelson Naturals, KC Recycling (Trail), Treasure Life Flour Mills (Creston), Popov Leather and others

    Eligibility & How the RCIP Works

    To be eligible for permanent residence via the West Kootenay RCIP:

    1. You must receive a full‑time, permanent job offer from one of the designated employers listed above.
    2. The job must belong to a priority sector and eligible occupation.
    3. You must meet other RCIP criteria:
      • Minimum 1,560 hours of work experience in the past 3 years (or be a local graduate without experience)
      • Required language proficiency (CLB levels 4–6 depending on occupation)
      • Equivalent education credentials and proof of settlement funds if not already in Canada

    Applicants not yet living in West Kootenay must relocate permanently if recommended by the community.

    Application Timeline & Community Limit

    • Employer designation applications launched in June 2025, followed by community recommendation applications in early July, with the RCIP portal now accepting applications as of July 21, 2025
    • Each designated employer can recommend max 3 candidates/year if they have 1–65 employees, or up to 6 candidates if 66+ staff

    With its first official list of designated employers now live, the West Kootenay RCIP offers foreign professionals and workers across key sectors a promising route to permanent residence in rural B.C. If you hold a job offer from one of these employers in an eligible occupation, consider applying through this employer‑driven pilot.

    Stay updated via the official West Kootenay RCIP site for new employer listings and detailed application instructions. And remember: never contact designated employers directly unless you’re replying to a public job ad.

  • Express Entry Update – August 6, 2025

    Express Entry Update – August 6, 2025

    Canada Issues 225 PR Invitations to PNP Candidates

    The latest Express Entry draw was held on August 6, 2025, where 225 candidates under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) received Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residency. The minimum CRS score required was 739, and only candidates who had submitted their Express Entry profile before April 23, 2025, at 6:35 a.m. UTC were eligible.

    This is the first Express Entry draw in August. In July, draws were held for:

    • July 22: Healthcare & Social Services
    • July 21: PNP-specific
    • July 8: Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

    As of now, 49,628 ITAs have been issued through Express Entry in 2025.

    📊 Breakdown of Express Entry Draws in 2025

    IRCC has been targeting key labour needs with a mix of draw types:

    • 14 draws for PNP candidates
    • 7 draws for CEC
    • 3 draws for French-speaking candidates
    • 3 draws for Healthcare & Social Services
    • 1 draw for the Education stream

    Since June 10, IRCC has been alternating between PNP and CEC draws every two weeks, alongside monthly healthcare-focused draws.

    What Is Express Entry?

    Express Entry is Canada’s primary application system for skilled immigrants seeking permanent residence. It manages three main federal programs:

    • Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP)
    • Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP)
    • Canadian Experience Class (CEC)

    Candidates are ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS). Those with the highest scores are invited to apply for PR during regular draws.

    PNP candidates receive an additional 600 CRS points upon nomination, significantly increasing their chances of selection.

    How the PNP Supports Skilled Immigration

    The Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allows Canadian provinces and territories to nominate individuals who meet their specific economic and labour market needs.

    Benefits of the PNP:

    • Tailored immigration streams for skilled workers and entrepreneurs
    • In many cases, faster processing times
    • Opportunities to settle beyond major cities

    Note: Quebec runs its own separate immigration system and does not participate in the PNP.

    GTR Immigration – Your Trusted Partner

    At GTR Immigration, we guide you through every step of the Express Entry and PNP application process. Whether you’re a skilled professional, recent graduate, or entrepreneur, our team of licensed RCIC consultants will help you:

    • Assess your eligibility
    • Boost your CRS score
    • Secure a provincial nomination
    • Prepare and submit a strong PR application

    📞 Contact us today to start your journey to Canada with confidence!

  • Alberta Issues 443 Invitations Through Eight PNP Draws in July 2025

    Alberta Issues 443 Invitations Through Eight PNP Draws in July 2025

    Alberta continues to strengthen its workforce by attracting skilled professionals through strategic immigration draws. In July 2025, the Alberta Advantage Immigration Program (AAIP), also known as Alberta PNP, conducted eight separate draws, issuing 443 invitations to apply for permanent residence (PR) across various streams.

    These draws targeted high-demand sectors vital to Alberta’s economic development, including healthcare, construction, IT, agriculture, aviation, and law enforcement.

    Alberta PNP Draws – July 2025 Overview:

    DateStreamMinimum ScoreInvitations
    July 25, 2025Express Entry – Priority Sectors (Construction)6639
    July 17, 2025Express Entry – Accelerated Tech Pathway6922
    July 16, 2025Express Entry – Law Enforcement49<10
    July 11, 2025Alberta Opportunity Stream72269
    July 9, 2025Healthcare Pathway – Non-EE5332
    July 8, 2025Express Entry – Priority Sectors (Aviation)5320
    July 4, 2025Express Entry – Priority Sectors (Agriculture)6415
    July 3, 2025Healthcare Pathway – Express Entry6236

    July’s Significance for Alberta Immigration

    Alberta’s July draws reflect a strong, sector-focused approach, aimed at addressing labor shortages in critical industries. With targeted draws for both Express Entry and non-Express Entry candidates, the province set minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores as low as 49.

    Focused Occupations:

    The following occupations were prioritized in Alberta’s July draws:

    • Construction trades and project managers
    • IT professionals, including developers and analysts
    • Law enforcement and public safety officers
    • Healthcare workers (both Express Entry and non-EE pathways)
    • Aviation maintenance and technical specialists
    • Agricultural technicians and workers

    Why Alberta Offers a Unique PR Opportunity

    Alberta PNP remains an attractive option for those with moderate CRS scores due to its:

    • Low CRS thresholds (as low as 49)
    • Strong job opportunities in key sectors
    • Affordable living compared to Ontario and British Columbia
    • Business-friendly immigration policies
    • Fast-tracked options for eligible Express Entry candidates

    What’s Next?

    If you are employed in one of Alberta’s priority sectors and have an active Express Entry profile, you could be among the next to receive a nomination. Now is the perfect time to review your documents and ensure your profile matches Alberta’s current needs.

    Need Assistance?

    GTR Worldwide provides comprehensive support for professionals looking to immigrate to Canada through Alberta PNP. Contact our experts today to evaluate your eligibility and take the next step toward permanent residency in Canada.

  • Nova Scotia Immigration Update 2025 – What You Need to Know Now

    Nova Scotia Immigration Update 2025 – What You Need to Know Now

    Nova Scotia has made important updates to its immigration programs in 2025, impacting both local residents and international applicants. With reduced federal quotas, paused programs, and new processing priorities, understanding these changes is essential for anyone hoping to immigrate to Nova Scotia in 2025 or beyond.

    Reduced Immigration Quotas

    Under Canada’s national Immigration Levels Plan 2025–2027, Nova Scotia’s immigration allocation has been cut nearly in half.

    • Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) nominations have dropped from 6,300 in 2024 to 3,150 in 2025.

    This change means tighter competition and a stronger focus on in-province applicants.

    Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) Prioritization

    The NSNP continues to operate, but application processing is now strictly focused on key priority groups. Nova Scotia immigration authorities are prioritizing:

    • In-province candidates with work permits expiring in 2025
    • Workers in healthcare, social assistance (NAICS 62), and construction sectors (NAICS 62)

    Out-of-province and international applicants will only be considered if they belong to critical occupations such as:

    • Nurses and healthcare support workers
    • Construction tradespersons
    • Select roles in trucking, clean energy, and technology

    New Online Platform: LaMPSS

    On May 1, 2025, Nova Scotia launched LaMPSS (Labour Market Programs Support System)—a new digital portal that replaces the AIP Online system.
    This platform allows designated employers to:

    • Submit and track immigration endorsements
    • Manage applications through a centralized system
    • Retain current designation without reapplying

    Employers must register through MyNS to access the system.

    Navigating Nova Scotia Immigration in 2025

    With reduced immigration quotas, the temporary AIP pause, and a firm focus on in-province workers, Nova Scotia is prioritizing strategic immigration that meets local labor demands. The introduction of LaMPSS also marks a shift toward digital modernization.

    Whether you’re an employer, a temporary foreign worker, or an international candidate dreaming of moving to Canada’s East Coast, staying informed on the latest Nova Scotia immigration updates for 2025 is key to long-term success.

  • Canada Updates Minimum Funds for Atlantic Immigration Program

    Canada Updates Minimum Funds for Atlantic Immigration Program

    In a recent update, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially announced an increase in the minimum settlement funds requirement for the Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP), effective July 29, 2025. This adjustment ensures that newcomers are better financially prepared to establish themselves in Atlantic Canada.

    What Are Settlement Funds and Why Do They Matter?

    Settlement funds are financial resources immigrants must show to prove they can support themselves and their families upon arriving in Canada. This requirement applies to AIP candidates who are not already working in Canada on a valid work permit.

    The increase aligns with Canada’s Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) changes and aims to reflect the current cost of living in provinces like Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Newfoundland and Labrador.

    Updated Settlement Fund Requirements (2025)

    Below is the updated table of settlement funds by family size:

    Family Size2025 Required Funds (CAD)2024 Required Funds (CAD)
    1$3,815$3,672
    2$4,750$4,572
    3$5,840$5,620
    4$7,090$6,824
    5$8,042$7,740
    6$9,070$8,729
    7$10,098$9,718
    Each additional member over 7$1,028$989

    Who Needs to Show Proof of Funds?

    You must show proof of funds if:

    • You are applying under AIP from outside Canada.
    • You do not currently hold a valid Canadian work permit.

    You do not need to show proof of funds if you:

    • Already live in Canada with a valid work permit.
    • Are currently employed full-time in an Atlantic province under an eligible AIP job offer.

    What Qualifies as Acceptable Proof of Funds?

    To meet AIP financial requirements, applicants must submit official documents from recognized financial institutions that include:

    • Applicant’s name
    • Institution’s contact details
    • Account numbers and current balance
    • Six-month average balance
    • Confirmation of any outstanding debts

    Funds must be readily available and unencumbered. Borrowed money, real estate, or assets held in someone else’s name do not qualify.

    About AIP

    The Atlantic Immigration Program (AIP) is an employer-driven immigration pathway designed for foreign workers who wish to live and work permanently in one of Canada’s four Atlantic provinces: New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Nova Scotia, or Prince Edward Island.

    To be eligible for the AIP, international applicants must:

    • Have a valid job offer from a designated employer in one of the Atlantic provinces
    • Ensure that the job offer is officially endorsed by the province

    In addition, applicants must fall into one of the following categories:

    • Skilled workers with relevant work experience (whether gained inside or outside Canada)
    • Recent graduates from a recognized post-secondary institution in Atlantic Canada

    Applicants are also required to meet criteria in the following areas:

    • Educational qualifications
    • Language proficiency (English or French)
    • Settlement funds – applicants must provide proof of minimum financial resources as per the latest IRCC guidelines

    Once applicants meet the eligibility requirements and receive a valid job offer, they may:

    • Submit an application for permanent residence (PR) directly to the Government of Canada
    • Apply for a special temporary work permit, valid for up to two years, allowing them to work legally while their PR application is being processed

  • Canadian Premiers Push for More Immigration Power as Doug Ford Targets Federal Minister

    Canadian Premiers Push for More Immigration Power as Doug Ford Targets Federal Minister

    Canadian premiers, led by Ontario’s Doug Ford, are demanding greater provincial authority over immigration policies. Tensions rise as Ford criticizes federal minister’s approach.

    A growing number of Canadian provincial premiers are calling for more control over immigration decisions, with Ontario Premier Doug Ford leading the charge. The move marks an escalating dispute between provincial leaders and the federal government over who should shape the country’s immigration policies.

    Doug Ford Demands Stronger Provincial Say

    During a recent Council of the Federation meeting, Premier Doug Ford called out the federal immigration minister, accusing Ottawa of ignoring the specific needs of provinces like Ontario. Ford argued that provinces are best positioned to determine their labour market needs and should have a larger role in selecting newcomers.

    “We know what’s best for our workers, our businesses, and our communities,” Ford said. “The federal government needs to stop dictating immigration policies from a distance.”

    Ford’s criticism comes amid rising labour shortages in sectors such as construction, healthcare, and manufacturing. The Ontario government says it needs more autonomy to fast-track skilled immigrants into critical roles.

    Other Premiers Join the Call

    Ontario is not alone. Premiers from Alberta, Saskatchewan, and Quebec have also voiced support for increased provincial authority over immigration.

    • Quebec already controls its own immigration system under a special agreement.
    • Alberta Premier Danielle Smith echoed Ford’s concerns, saying, “We need to bring in workers who can contribute right away, not just wait for federal bureaucracy.”

    This unified stance has put pressure on Ottawa to reconsider its current immigration strategy, particularly around the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and the allocation of immigrant spots per province.

    Federal Government Pushes Back

    In response, the federal immigration minister defended the centralized approach, stating that immigration policy must balance national priorities such as family reunification, humanitarian support, and economic growth.

    “While provinces play an important role, immigration is a national responsibility,” the minister said.

    However, critics argue that this response fails to acknowledge the unique regional needs and the rising demand for targeted immigration programs.

    Why This Matters: The Future of Canadian Immigration

    The debate could have significant implications for the future of immigration in Canada. If provinces gain more power, we could see:

    • Customized immigration streams that address local labour shortages.
    • Faster processing times through streamlined provincial pathways.
    • More newcomers settling in smaller communities that actively seek population growth.

    At the same time, experts caution that a fragmented system may lead to inconsistencies and competition between provinces.

  • Canadian Passport Ranks Higher Than U.S. in 2025 Global Passport Index

    Canadian Passport Ranks Higher Than U.S. in 2025 Global Passport Index

    The latest Henley Passport Index 2025 shows the Canadian passport has outperformed the U.S. passport, ranking 7th globally with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188 destinations. In comparison, the United States passport has slipped to 10th place, offering access to 182 countries—its lowest position in 20 years.

    Canada Outpaces the U.S. in Global Mobility

    In the 2025 edition, Canada ranks 7th globally, with visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 188 destinations. This marks a stable or slightly improved position compared to previous years, where Canada typically hovered between 8th and 9th.

    In contrast, the United States passport has dropped to 10th place, offering access to only 182 countries—a significant decline from its previous top-five position a decade ago. This is now the lowest ranking for the U.S. passport in 20 years.

    Canada’s consistent performance is credited to:

    • Strong diplomatic relations
    • Expanding visa waiver agreements
    • A favorable international image

    Top of the List: Asia Dominates Again

    The Henley Passport Index ranks passports based on how many countries their holders can access without needing a visa in advance.

    Here are the Top 5 Most Powerful Passports in 2025:

    1. Singapore – 193 visa-free destinations
    2. Japan & South Korea – 190 destinations each
    3. Germany, Italy, Spain – 189 destinations
    4. Finland, Sweden, Netherlands, Austria, Luxembourg – 188 destinations
    5. Canada, Poland, Malta – 188 destinations

    Canada shares its rank with Poland and Malta, reflecting its strong global mobility.

    What This Means for Travelers

    The Canadian passport is globally recognized for its:

    • Visa-free travel to Europe’s Schengen Zone, the U.K., Japan, and much of Latin America
    • Efficient and secure passport renewal system
    • Favorable reputation of Canadian travelers worldwide

    Additionally, Canada has avoided major diplomatic disputes that affect visa agreements—unlike the U.S., which has faced new restrictions from countries like Brazil and proposals such as the $250 “visa integrity fee.”

    This ranking offers Canadian citizens:

    • Easier access to travel, tourism, and business opportunities
    • Fewer visa applications and travel delays
    • Stronger mobility compared to U.S. travelers

    In today’s globalized world, a powerful passport is more than a document—it’s a gateway to opportunity. The Canadian passport’s global standing not only reflects the country’s diplomatic strength but also enhances the quality of life and mobility for its citizens.

  • Canada Adjusts Minimum Income for PGP Applications

    Canada Adjusts Minimum Income for PGP Applications

    Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced updated income thresholds for sponsoring parents or grandparents under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) for 2025. Canadian citizens and permanent residents who wish to sponsor family members must now demonstrate an annual income of at least $47,549 for the year 2024, which is an increase of approximately $3,000 compared to the previous year.

    2025 PGP Income Requirements: What You Need to Know

    To be eligible to sponsor under the PGP in 2025, sponsors must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the three tax years prior to applying—that is, 2022, 2023, and 2024.

    The required income varies based on family size. Here’s a breakdown:

    Family size202420232022
    2 people$47,549$44,530$43,082
    3 people$58,456$54,743$52,965
    4 people$70,972$66,466$64,306
    5 people$80,496$75,384$72,935
    6 people$90,784$85,020$82,259
    7 people$101,075$94,658$91,582
    Each additional person$10,291$9,636$9,324

    Sponsors may meet the MNI on their own or combine their income with a co-signer, such as a spouse or common-law partner.

    Sponsors need to provide Notices of Assessment (NOAs) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for proof To authorize IRCC to verify these, sponsors must check “Yes” on the CRA authorization section of the IMM 5768 form and provide their SIN.

    Invitation to Apply: Only 2020 Pool Eligible

    IRCC will issue Invitations to Apply (ITAs) starting July 28, 2025, aiming to invite approximately 17,860 sponsors to reach a cap of 10,000 complete applications over about two weeks

    Only individuals who submitted an Interest to Sponsor form in 2020, and haven’t yet been invited, are eligible

    No new interest forms will be accepted in 2025.

    Processing Times & Undertaking

    Processing times remain lengthy: approximately 24 months for applications outside Québec, and 48 months for Québec-bound applications

    Upon inviting, sponsors must sign an undertaking to financially support their parents/grandparents for 20 years (or 10 years if residing in Québec)

    What Is the Parents and Grandparents Program?

    The PGP is part of Canada’s family reunification stream, allowing eligible Canadians and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residency. Because demand for this program far exceeds the number of available spots, IRCC uses a randomized lottery system to issue invitations.

    The last time the form to express interest in sponsoring under this program was open was in 2020.

    Super Visa: A Practical Alternative

    For those who don’t receive an ITA, the Parents and Grandparents Super Visa is a viable option:

    • Allows stays of up to 5 years per entry with multiple entries over 10 years
    • Recent updates relaxed health insurance requirements, including acceptance of non-Canadian providers, reducing costs
    • Sponsors must still meet basic income criteria (LICO-based) and secure insurance coverage

    Canada’s 2025 updates to the Parents and Grandparents Program reinforce the importance of family unity while ensuring that sponsors have the financial capacity to provide for their loved ones. By tightening income verification and limiting access to the 2020 pool, IRCC intends to manage demand and delivery effectively under national immigration targets.