There are two programs that make coming to Canada permanently, or staying for longer periods of time (more than six months), possible: the parent and grandparents sponsorship program and the Super visa for parents and grandparents. The Canadian government knows that every family has unique dynamics, so there are options to help you bring your parents or grandparents to the country in ways that meet your needs. 

Requirements for the sponsor are:

Minimum 18 years of age; must be a Canadian permanent resident living in Canada or a Canadian citizen or a person registered in Canada as an Indian under the Canadian Indian Act; and cannot be in prison, bankrupt, under a removal order (if a permanent resident) or charged with a serious offence.

Requirements for the parents and grandparents sponsorship program:

This program is conducted through an online “interest to sponsor” form and if chosen, your family member will be asked to officially apply. The program has opening and closing dates and can “skip” a year if the pool of applications is large. 

Those you wish to sponsor must be your natural or adopted parents and grandparents. 

We are here to help you understand the process of the sponsorship program and whether your loved ones are a fit. 

Requirements for the parent and grandparent Super visa:

Sometimes, parents and grandparents want to be with you longer than a typical six-month visitor visa, but they don’t want to become a resident of Canada. When family life changes, such as with the birth of a baby, a marriage or a new household, it can be ideal to have your elder loved ones around. 

The Super visa is valid for up to 10 years and allows for visits of up to two years for the first visit than one year at a time afterwards. 

Those eligible must:

• Be the parent or grandparent (natural or adopted) of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident of Canada.
• Reside outside of Canada.
• Have accepted medical insurance for at least one year.

If you’re wondering if your parents or grandparents are a better fit for sponsorship or a Super visa, ask us, we can help.