Immigration experts are forecasting that Canada’s popular Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) will remain closed for the foreseeable future. The program, which allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency, has been paused since September 2021.
The reasons for the extended closure are multifaceted, including a significant backlog in applications and processing times. The COVID-19 pandemic exacerbated these issues, leading to staffing shortages and disruptions in immigration services. Current processing capacity is struggling to keep pace with existing demands.
While there is ongoing demand for family reunification, the government has not provided a clear timeline for when the PGP might reopen. Potential changes to the program’s selection process, such as a lottery system, are also being considered to manage the high volume of applications. Applicants and their families are advised to stay informed through official government channels for any updates.
The lack of clarity surrounding the PGP’s future is causing uncertainty and frustration for many families hoping to reunite in Canada. Alternative immigration pathways, such as those available under Provincial Nominee Programs, may be considered by some, though these often have different eligibility requirements.
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