Parents and Grandparents Program: intake paused in 2026 — what families can consider

IRCC has paused new intake under the Parents and Grandparents Program. Here is what that means, what continues, and why many families look at the super visa.

On July 15, 2026, IRCC announced that it is pausing intake under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). IRCC said it will not accept new interest-to-sponsor forms or invite potential sponsors to apply until further notice.

What continues

• Applications already submitted continue to be processed. IRCC has said it plans to admit up to 15,000 people as permanent residents through the PGP in 2026.
• The 2025 intake round has closed.
• IRCC has said any future intake will be announced on its website and social media channels.

Options families often consider

The super visa. The super visa allows eligible parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens, permanent residents and registered Indians to make extended visits. It has its own requirements, including an income threshold for the host, private medical insurance from an eligible insurer, and an immigration medical exam. See our super visa page.

A visitor visa. For shorter visits, a standard visitor visa may be more appropriate.

Other pathways. In some families, a parent may have an independent pathway, for example through work or study. This depends entirely on the individual.

A note on planning

Because intake rules change, avoid making decisions based on a past year’s process. If you were planning to sponsor a parent or grandparent, keep your own records (such as notices of assessment) organized so that you can act quickly if IRCC announces a new intake.

This article is general information, not advice about your situation. Sources: IRCC notice “Canada takes steps to responsibly manage the Parents and Grandparents Program” and IRCC’s sponsorship pages.