How to Prepare Application for Parents Sponsorship in Canada

Bringing your loved ones closer is one of the biggest reasons many people move abroad. If you’re living in Canada, sponsorship for parents in Canada is one of the most meaningful ways to reunite your family and give your parents the opportunity to live with you permanently. However, the process can feel overwhelming—forms, income requirements, and strict eligibility rules can easily confuse applicants.

In this guide, you’ll learn how to apply for parents sponsorship in Canada, what documents you need, and how to prepare a strong application for parents sponsorship in Canada.

What Is Sponsorship for Parents in Canada?

The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), managed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residency.

Once approved, your parents can:

• Live in Canada permanently
• Access healthcare benefits
• Apply for Canadian citizenship later

This program is highly competitive and often operates through an invitation system, so preparation is key.

Who Can Sponsor Their Parents?

Before starting your application for parents sponsorship in Canada, make sure you meet these eligibility criteria:

Basic Requirements

You must:

• Be at least 18 years old
• Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
• Live in Canada
• Meet minimum income requirements (LICO)
• Sign a sponsorship undertaking (financial responsibility)

Income Requirements

You need to prove that you meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for the last 3 taxation years.

This ensures you can support your parents financially without relying on government assistance.

How to Apply for Parents Sponsorship in Canada

Understanding how to apply for parents sponsorship in Canada will make the process smoother and increase your chances of success.

1. Submit an Interest to Sponsor Form

The process begins by submitting an online “Interest to Sponsor” form when the intake opens.

Important:

• You cannot apply directly without receiving an invitation
• Selection is usually done randomly

2. Wait for Invitation to Apply (ITA)

If selected, you’ll receive an Invitation to Apply from IRCC.

You’ll typically have:

• 60 days to submit your complete application 

3. Prepare Your Application Package

This is the most critical part of the sponsorship for parents in Canada process.

Your application must include:

Sponsor Documents

• Proof of status in Canada
• Notices of Assessment (last 3 years)
• Employment or income proof

Parent Documents

• Passports
• Birth certificates (to prove relationship)
• Marriage certificates (if applicable)

Additional Requirements

• Police clearance certificates
• Medical examinations
• Completed IMM forms

4. Pay Application Fees

Fees usually include:

• Sponsorship fee
• Processing fee
• Right of Permanent Residence Fee

Make sure to keep proof of payment.

5. Submit the Application

Double-check everything before submission.

Incomplete applications may be:

• Returned
• Delayed
• Rejected

6. Wait for Processing

Processing times can vary but often take 12–24 months or longer.

During this time:

• You may be asked for additional documents
• Your parents will complete medical and background checks

Documents Checklist for Parents Sponsorship Application

Here’s a quick checklist to help you organize your application for parents sponsorship in Canada:

For the Sponsor

• Canadian passport or PR card
• Tax documents (NOA for 3 years)
• Proof of employment/income

For the Parents

• Valid passports
• Birth certificates
• Marriage certificate (if applicable)
• Police clearance
• Medical exam confirmation

Forms

• IMM 1344 (Application to Sponsor)
• IMM 0008 (Generic Application Form)
• IMM 5768 (Financial Evaluation)

Parent Sponsorship vs Super Visa

If you’re not selected for sponsorship, consider the Super Visa as an alternative.

Parent Sponsorship

• Permanent residency
• Long processing time
• Limited intake

Super Visa

• Temporary stay (up to 5 years per visit)
• Faster processing
• Requires private health insurance

Both options have their advantages depending on your situation.

How to Increase Your Chances of Approval

While the selection process is random, you can strengthen your application once invited:

• Ensure all documents are complete and accurate
• Double-check income eligibility
• Submit early within the deadline
• Provide clear proof of relationship
• Avoid inconsistencies in forms

Working with professionals can also help reduce errors.

Get Professional Support for Parent Sponsorship Success

Preparing a strong sponsorship for parents in Canada application can be complex. That’s why many families choose to work with experts like Foothills Immigration.

They assist with:

• Eligibility assessment
• Document preparation
• Application review
• Error prevention
• End-to-end guidance

Having expert support can significantly reduce stress and improve your chances of success.