Can You Bring Aging Parents to Canada? Visa Options for Family

Bringing your parents to Canada is a heartfelt goal for many U.S. expats and Canadian residents alike. However, navigating the Canadian immigration system can feel overwhelming, especially when it comes to reuniting families across borders. In this guide, we’ll break down the main pathways for bringing your parents to Canada, including permanent and temporary options, recent policy changes, and practical advice to help you make the best decision for your family.

Overview of family immigration options

Canada recognizes the importance of family reunification, offering several immigration pathways for citizens and permanent residents who wish to bring their parents or grandparents to live with them. However, the process and eligibility requirements can vary significantly depending on whether you want your parents to stay permanently or just visit for an extended period.

The main options include:

• Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP): A pathway to permanent residence for parents and grandparents.
• Super Visa: A long-term, multiple-entry visa allowing parents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time.
• Temporary Visitor Visa: For short-term visits, typically up to six months.

Each option comes with its own set of requirements, timelines, and benefits. Understanding these choices is the first step in answering the question, “can I bring my parents to Canada permanently?” Let’s explore each in detail.

Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP): Permanent residence sponsorship

The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is the primary route for those who want to bring their parents to Canada permanently. Through the PGP, Canadian citizens and permanent residents can sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residency, allowing them to live, work, and access healthcare in Canada.

Key requirements

• Eligibility: You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, at least 18 years old, and living in Canada.
• Financial support: Sponsors must meet specific income requirements for the past three years, demonstrating the ability to support their parents without social assistance.
• Commitment: You’ll need to sign an undertaking to financially support your parents for 20 years (10 years in Quebec).

Application process

1. Interest to sponsor: Submit an online form during the annual intake period (usually a lottery system).
2. Invitation to apply: If selected, you’ll receive an invitation to submit a full application.
3. Application submission: Complete and submit the application with supporting documents.
4. Processing: Wait times can be lengthy—often 2 years or more.

Practical example

Let’s say you’re a U.S. expat who recently became a Canadian permanent resident. You meet the income requirements and want your aging parents to join you permanently. The PGP is your best option, but you’ll need to plan ahead, as the program is highly competitive and subject to annual caps.

Super Visa: Long-term temporary stay option for parents

If you’re not able to bring your parents to Canada permanently right away, the Super Visa offers a flexible alternative. This visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit Canada for up to five years at a time, with multiple entries over a 10-year period.

Key features

• Extended stay: Stay up to five years per visit, much longer than a standard visitor visa.
• Multiple entries: Travel back and forth between Canada and your home country.
• Medical insurance: Applicants must have private medical insurance from a Canadian provider for at least one year.
• Financial support: The host child or grandchild must meet a minimum income threshold and provide a letter of invitation.

Who should consider the Super Visa?

The Super Visa is ideal if you want your parents to spend extended periods with you in Canada but aren’t able to secure permanent residency for them yet. It’s also a practical solution while waiting for the PGP to reopen or for your application to be processed.

Practical example

Let’s say your parents want to help care for your children or need to be close for health reasons, but you’re not eligible for the PGP this year. The Super Visa lets them stay for years at a time, offering peace of mind and family support without the long wait for permanent residency.

Temporary Visitor Visa: Short-term visit requirements and process

For families seeking shorter visits, the Temporary Resident Visa (also known as a TRV) is the standard option. This visa typically allows parents to visit Canada for up to six months at a time.

Application steps

1. Online application: Submit the application and supporting documents online.
2. Proof of ties: Demonstrate that your parents have strong ties to their home country (such as property, employment, or family) to show they will return after their visit.
3. Financial support: Provide evidence that you or your parents can cover the costs of the trip.

Limitations

• Short duration: Maximum stay is usually six months per visit.
• Extensions possible: You can apply to extend the stay from within Canada, but approval is not guaranteed.

When is a visitor visa appropriate?

If your parents want to attend a special event, help with a new baby, or simply spend a few months with you, the visitor visa is a straightforward choice. However, it’s not a pathway to permanent residency and doesn’t offer the long-term flexibility of the Super Visa.

Recent changes: Canada’s pause on new PGP applications and what it means

In recent years, the demand for the Parents and Grandparents Program has far outpaced the number of available spots. In 2024, Canada announced a pause on new PGP applications, meaning no new interest-to-sponsor forms are being accepted until further notice. Instead, it is inviting applicants from the 2020 pool only.

What Does This Mean for Families?

• No new applications: If you haven’t already submitted an interest-to-sponsor form, you’ll need to wait until the program reopens.
• Existing applications: If you’ve already applied or received an invitation, your application will continue to be processed.
• Alternative options: The Super Visa remains open and is currently the best option for most families seeking to bring parents to Canada for extended stays.

While this pause can be disappointing, it’s important to stay informed and consider temporary options like the Super Visa. Keep an eye on official updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and consult with an immigration professional to plan your next steps.

Ready to bring your family together? Get expert guidance today

Navigating Canadian immigration and tax requirements can be complex, especially when your family’s future is at stake. If you’re in this process, you don’t have to figure it out alone. Our team of expat tax experts is here to help you make informed decisions, avoid costly mistakes, and ensure your family’s transition is as smooth as possible.

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