As of May 21st, the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) has reopened, offering a pathway for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to reunite with their loved ones. However, this year continues a pattern established over the past four years: Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will only select applicants from the 2020 pool. This means that potential sponsors in subsequent years have yet to have the opportunity to join the PGP candidate pool to sponsor their parents or grandparents for Canadian permanent residence (PR).
For those unable to sponsor their loved ones through the PGP, the Super Visa offers an alternative route to bring family members to Canada. While different from the PGP, the Super Visa serves a similar purpose by enabling family reunification.
Availability: Year-Round Access vs. Annual Lottery
The Super Visa vs. PGP availability significantly differs, impacting the chances of reuniting with family.
PGP Availability:
The PGP opens once a year and is limited in availability due to IRCC’s ongoing selection of eligible sponsors from the 2020 intake. The program operates on a lottery system, meaning eligible candidates are randomly chosen from the pool to receive invitations to apply (ITAs) for permanent residence.
Super Visa Availability:
In contrast, the Super Visa is available year-round. Eligible sponsors can apply at any time, and all applications are considered equally, without the randomness of a lottery system. This makes the Super Visa a more accessible and reliable option for many families.
Table 1: Availability Comparison
| Program | Availability | Selection Process |
|---|---|---|
| PGP | Once a year | Random lottery |
| Super Visa | Year-round | Equal consideration |
Eligibility Requirements: PGP vs. Super Visa
The PGP and the Super Visa have specific eligibility criteria that sponsors and applicants must meet, though they differ in crucial aspects.
PGP Eligibility:
To qualify for the PGP, sponsors must have submitted an Interest to Sponsor form in 2020, be at least 18 years old, and reside in Canada. Sponsors must also meet or exceed the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) and agree to support the sponsored family members financially for 20 years. Additionally, they must sign an undertaking to repay any social assistance benefits paid to the sponsored family members.
Super Visa Eligibility:
For the Super Visa, the Applicant (parent or grandparent) must be outside Canada at the time of application. The sponsor must provide proof of relationship, citizenship or PR status, and proof of meeting the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) criteria. Unlike the PGP, where the sponsor applies on behalf of the Applicant, the Super Visa requires the sponsored individual to apply directly.
Table 2: Eligibility Requirements
| Requirement | PGP | Super Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Age | 18+ | No specific age |
| Residence | Must reside in Canada | Applicant must be outside Canada |
| Income Threshold | Must meet MNI | Must meet LICO |
| Application Process | Sponsor submits profile | Applicant submits own application |
Immigration Outcomes: Permanent vs. Temporary Status
The immigration outcomes under the Super Visa vs. PGP are markedly different, influencing the long-term plans for families.
PGP Outcome:
Successful PGP applicants receive permanent resident status, which grants them the right to live, work, and settle in Canada indefinitely and provides access to most of the rights and benefits enjoyed by Canadian citizens.
Super Visa Outcome:
In contrast, the Super Visa grants temporary resident status, similar to a work or study permit. Super Visa holders can stay in Canada for up to five years, possibly extending their stay for another two years. However, they do not have the same rights and benefits as permanent residents.
Table 3: Immigration Outcomes
| Outcome | PGP | Super Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Residency Status | Permanent Resident | Temporary Resident |
| Duration of Stay | Indefinite | Up to 7 years (5 years + 2-year extension) |
Cost Considerations: Comparing Financial Requirements
The costs associated with the Super Visa vs. PGP reflect the differences in the immigration outcomes of each program.
PGP Costs:
Applicants under the PGP must pay CAD 1,205 for the principal Applicant, including sponsorship and processing fees and the right of permanent residence fee. An additional CAD 1,210 is required for the spouse or partner of the parent or grandparent. Sponsors must also meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) criteria to be eligible.
Super Visa Costs:
For the Super Visa, applicants pay CAD 100 for a single or multiple-entry visa, with an additional CAD 500 fee for a family of five. Sponsors must meet the LICO criteria, which are generally lower than the MNI required for the PGP.
Table 4: Cost Comparison
| Expense | PGP | Super Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Principal Applicant Fee | $1,205 CAD | $100 CAD (single entry) |
| Additional Spouse/Partner | $1,210 CAD | $500 CAD (family of 5) |
| Income Requirement | Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) | Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) |
Choosing Between the Super Visa and PGP:
When comparing the Super Visa vs. PGP, the decision ultimately depends on your family’s needs and circumstances. The PGP offers the benefit of permanent residency but with limited availability and higher financial requirements. The Super Visa, however, provides a more accessible and flexible option for families seeking temporary residency with the possibility of long-term stays.
Families must carefully weigh the pros and cons of each program to determine which pathway best aligns with their goals for reunification in Canada.
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