Parental Sponsorship Made Simple: Everything You Need to Know

Sponsoring your parents to join you in Canada is a wonderful way to reunite and share life’s special moments together. However, the process can seem complicated if you’re unfamiliar with the requirements and steps involved.

Sponsoring your parents to join you in Canada is a wonderful way to reunite and share life’s special moments together. However, the process can seem complicated if you’re unfamiliar with the requirements and steps involved. This blog breaks down everything you need to know about parental sponsorship in a clear, simple way to help you feel confident moving forward.

What Is Parental Sponsorship?

Parental sponsorship is a program offered by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) that allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residence in Canada. This pathway enables families to be together, fostering support and connection across generations.

Who Can Sponsor Their Parents?

To be eligible to sponsor your parents, you must:

  • Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident aged 18 or older.
  • Reside in Canada or plan to live in Canada once your parents become permanent residents.
  • Meet a minimum income requirement for the past three years to prove you can financially support your parents without social assistance.

How to Apply for Parental Sponsorship

Step 1: Check Your Eligibility

Before you start, ensure both you and your parents meet the program’s eligibility criteria. This includes financial requirements and admissibility of the sponsored persons.

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

Collect all necessary paperwork, including proof of status, income documents, and identity verification for both sponsor and applicants.

Step 3: Complete the Application Forms

Fill out the application forms carefully, double-checking for accuracy to avoid delays or refusals.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

Submit your sponsorship and permanent residence applications together. This helps speed up the processing time under the “Parent and Grandparent Program.”

Step 5: Wait for Processing

Application processing times vary. During this period, you may be asked for additional information or to attend interviews.

Step 6: Welcome Your Parents to Canada

Once approved, your parents receive permanent residence and can enjoy life in Canada with their family.

Tips for a Successful Sponsorship Application

  • Stay Organized: Keep copies of all forms and correspondence.
  • Meet Deadlines: Submit all documents within the deadlines to avoid refusal.
  • Understand Financial Obligations: Sponsors must commit to supporting their parents financially for up to 20 years depending on the province.
  • Seek Professional Advice: Consider consulting an immigration expert if you find the process overwhelming.

Where to Find More Information?

The government website provides detailed instructions and up-to-date requirements for parental sponsorship. For comprehensive guidance, visit website .

You can also find helpful resources, application forms, and checklists to make the process smoother.


Parental sponsorship is a meaningful journey that brings families closer. By understanding the requirements and following the right steps, you can simplify the application process and look forward to welcoming your parents to Canada.