🇨🇦family Visa

Parents and Grandparents Program

Canada

Last updated: December 21, 2025

Duration

Permanent residence (forever)

Visa Fee

$1205

Time

24-48 months

Complexity

High

About this Visa

This visa lets you bring your parents or grandparents to Canada to live permanently. They become permanent residents and can eventually become Canadian citizens. You must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident living in Canada to sponsor them. You must also prove you have enough income to support them financially. This program uses a lottery. Over 200,000 people express interest each year, but only about 28,000 get selected.

Key Benefits

  • Work without limits in any job
  • Healthcare coverage after 3-month wait
  • Bring dependent children under 22
  • Travel freely to/from Canada
  • Path to citizenship after 3 years
  • No restrictions on occupation or employment

Eligibility & Requirements

Eligibility Criteria

  • Must be 18 or older as sponsor
  • Must be Canadian citizen or permanent resident
  • Must live in Canada
  • Must have sufficient income for 3 years
  • No serious criminal record
  • Not bankrupt or in prison
  • Not on social assistance except disability
  • Can legally support for 20 years
  • Parents/grandparents must pass medical exam
  • Parents/grandparents must not have serious criminal record
  • Parents/grandparents must not pose security risk
  • Biological or adopted relationship required

Financial Requirement

Must show 3 years of income. Minimum ranges from CAD $47,549 (2 people) to CAD $91,134 (6 people). Spouse income can be combined.

Documents

  • Proof of Canadian residenceDriver's license or similar ID
  • 3 years tax documentsNotices of Assessment from Canada Revenue Agency
  • Marriage certificateIf applicable for co-signing spouse
  • Birth certificateFor parents/grandparents
  • Valid passportFor parents/grandparents
  • Police clearanceFrom all countries where lived 6+ months since age 18
  • Medical exam resultsMust be done by approved doctor; applicant pays

Disclaimer: The information on this page is for general informational purposes only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Visa requirements, fees, and processes change frequently. Please verify all information with official government sources and consult a qualified immigration attorney before making decisions.