As part of the larger Family Sponsorship program, the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to bring their parents or grandparents to the Great White North. Both the sponsors and the sponsored parents or grandparents must meet the criteria set by the Canadian government in order to have their request for permanent residence approved.

For example, the sponsor will have to provide the Canadian government with proof of their ability to financially support their relatives after they receive their desired status. The parent or grandparent must, in turn, undergo physical health exams and security checks before they are deemed eligible for permanent residence.

Who Can Become a Sponsor?

To be eligible to sponsor a parent or grandparent sponsorship visa, you will need to meet the following criteria:

• You must be 18 years of age or older.
• If you are a permanent resident, you must reside in Canada.
• Meet the Minimum Necessary Income requirement to ensure you can support your sponsored family member financially.
• The sponsorship agreement will hold you responsible for any financial obligations tied to your family members in the eyes of the Canadian government. You will also agree to repay any social assistance benefits received by your family members during the sponsorship period.

What Should You Expect

Since you will likely sponsor an elderly person, you will need to sign an undertaking with IRCC, committing to be responsible for their financial obligations. This includes providing basic necessities such as food, housing, clothing, and utilities.

Additionally, the sponsorship period for sponsors living outside of Quebec is 20 years, beginning from the date the sponsored person receives their permanent residence status. In Quebec, the sponsorship period is 10 years.