On July 17, 2026, IRCC announced the immediate suspension of the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP). The pause affects both new invitations to sponsor and, in some cases, processing of applications already in the queue. Here is what we know, the impact on existing applications, and the alternatives available during the suspension.
What was announced
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Announcement date | July 17, 2026 |
| Effective date | Immediate |
| Program affected | Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) |
| Programs not affected | Super Visa, spousal/partner sponsorship, dependent child sponsorship |
Why the pause?
IRCC cites the need to manage the volume of applications already in inventory before opening new spots. The PGP has operated through limited invitation cycles for several years (interest-to-sponsor form, followed by a random draw among respondents), and processing times for applications already submitted had reached several years in some offices.
📌 What does NOT change
PGP files already accepted and in processing continue to move forward normally. The pause affects the opening of new invitations to submit a complete application, not the cancellation of existing files.
What are your options during the pause?
If you were hoping to bring a parent or grandparent to Canada and the PGP is currently suspended, several avenues remain open:
- Super Visa: allows extended stays (up to 5 years per entry) for parents and grandparents of citizens or permanent residents, without going through permanent sponsorship. Requires proof of financial support and private medical insurance.
- Temporary resident (visitor) visa: for shorter stays while waiting for the program to reopen.
- Monitor IRCC announcements: PGP cycles typically reopen with a time-limited interest-to-sponsor form — preparing your file in advance lets you act quickly once it reopens.
Tip: If your PGP application is already submitted and accepted, no action is required on your part during the pause. If you don't yet have a file, prepare your documents (proof of income, family ties, background information) so you're ready as soon as the interest-to-sponsor form reopens.
Frequently Asked Questions
My PGP application is already submitted — is it cancelled?
No. The pause concerns the opening of new spots, not files already accepted into the system. These files continue to be processed according to IRCC's usual timelines.
When will the program reopen?
IRCC had not communicated a reopening date at the time this article was published. Previous cycles have generally reopened in waves, with a limited number of spots. We recommend monitoring official announcements or subscribing to our updates.
Is the Super Visa a good permanent alternative?
The Super Visa does not lead to permanent residence — it is a very long-term visa for repeated temporary stays. For families aiming for permanent reunification, it's a holding solution until the PGP reopens, not a permanent substitute.
Want to bring a parent or grandparent to Canada?
Mohamed Rachid Trissia, RCIC R420535, assesses your situation and prepares your file for the next PGP reopening, or identifies the best alternative available right now.
Free assessment → Book a consultation