How to Bring Your Parents or Grandparents to Canada

So you may already be settled in Canada or perhaps you’re thinking of immigrating to Canada but don’t want to leave your parents or grandparents behind.

Well, we have great news for you. Did you know the Canada Family Sponsorship Program lets you sponsor your parents and grandparents live in Canada?

And the best part is that there is more than one way to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada! The two ways to help your family come to Canada is the Parents and Grandparent Sponsorship Program and the SuperVisa. There are however two main differences between the two: the processing times and permanent residence status in Canada.

Ready to find out which is the right option for you? Let’s take a closer look at both option to see whether immigration to Canadian or a temporary visa is best for you.



Sponsor Your Parents or Grandparents Live in Canada

infographic |  Sponsor Your Parents or Grandparents Live in Canada

1. The Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program

Who Can Apply?

If you are a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, over the age of 18 years old, and living in Canada, you may be able to sponsor your parents and grandparents to join you in Canada. This means that they would get permanent residence and enjoy all the benefits that you do such as free healthcare.

How much income do I need to sponsor my parents in Canada?

The minimum necessary income to sponsor your parents or grandparents to join you in Canada depends on how many people you will be sponsoring. You will need to ensure that you meet the income requirements for the three taxation years before your application date.

For example, if you applied for family sponsorship for both your parents, in other words, 2 people, you will need to have earned:


Income Requirements for Sponsorship in 2019
201820172016
$40,379$39,813$39,372

Please note: The update on the 2019 income requirement has not yet been released for 2020 applications but based on previous years, you could expect an approximate increase of 1.42 to 1.72% increase in the required income.

How long does it take to sponsor parents to Canada?

The estimated application processing times to sponsor your parent or grandparent to live with you in Canada is approximately 20 to 24 months, so it’s best to get the process started as soon as possible.

Can my parents stay permanently in Canada?

Yes, when you apply through the family sponsorship program your parent or grandparents will be able to apply for permanent residence.

How Do I Apply?

Step 1. Check if you’re eligible.

Step 2. Submit an online interest to sponsor your parents or grandparents.

Step 3. If successful, you will receive an invitation to apply to sponsor your parents and/or grandparents to immigrate to Canada.


2. Super Visa

happy multi-generation family at dinner table | family sponsorship Canada

Who Can Apply?

If you are looking for faster processing times and a more temporary solution then the Super visa maybe your best option to bring your parent or grandparents to live with you in Canada. This allows your grandparent to visit you in Canada for up to 2 years as often as you like over a period of 10 years.

For your parents or grandparents to qualify for a Super Visa, they will need to meet the following eligibility requirements:

  • Be a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident;
  • Have a letter from you, inviting them to join you in Canada;
  • Medical insurance valid for a year (from entry date) with at least $100,000 coverage + proof of payment;
  • Apply from outside Canada;
  • Be admissible to Canada;
  • Immigration Medical Exams;
  • Your grandchild or child will need to meet the minimum income requirement.

Please note: This depends on how many people you intend to invite to stay with you in Canada:


Income Requirements for Super Visa
Amount of peopleMinimum Gross Income
1 person$25,921
2 persons$32,270
3 persons$39,672
4 persons$48,167
5 persons$54,630
6 persons$61,613
7 persons$68,598
Each additional person (more than 7 persons)$6,985

How long does it take to sponsor parents to Canada?

The estimated application processing times depend on where you are applying from and can take approximately 212 days or 7 months.

Can my parents stay permanently in Canada?

No, however, this will give you the opportunity to start the process of applying for permanent residence for through the family sponsorship program while your parents or grandparents are living with you in Canada.

How Do I Apply?

Step 1. Check if you’re eligible.

Step 2. Gather all your supporting documents

Step 3. Submit an online application for faster processing times.

Want to find out if you’re eligible to sponsor your parents or grandparents to join you in Canada? Simply click the link below and let one of our consultants help reunite that precious bond between you and the one you love.



Invite Your Loved Ones to Live With You in Canada

happy Latino family in park with grandparents | family sponsorship Canada

Applying for a visa can be time-consuming and confusing. With strict deadlines, procedures and requirements to adhere to, it can be easy to make a mistake that could cost you your chance to bring your parents or grandparents to live with you in Canada. But with the guidance and assistance of one of our knowledgeable Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultants (RCIC’s), the process will be stress-free.

When you choose to use our expert and government trusted services, you will receive:

  • An in-depth eligibility assessment
  • Guidance on which of 100+ immigration programs and visas to choose from;
  • An immigration plan and timeline tailored to your individual needs;
  • A review and submission of all application forms and documentation; as well as
  • Support through every step of the application process.

All you have to do is fill out our application form to receive your eligibility assessment and let us take care of the rest. It’s just that simple! Your Canadian journey starts here. Together.

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