Canada’s Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is paused for new applications in 2026. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced on July 15, 2026, that it will not accept new interest-to-sponsor forms or issue invitations to apply until further notice. Existing applications continue processing, with up to 15,000 admissions planned for 2026.

This guide explains what the pause means, whether families can apply, what happens to existing files and why the Super Visa is the principal alternative for families seeking temporary reunification.

Why is the Canada Parents and Grandparents Program paused?

IRCC has paused the intake of new PGP applications. During the pause, it will not accept new interest-to-sponsor forms and will not issue invitations to apply. The program will remain paused until further notice.

The pause affects people hoping to begin the sponsorship process. It does not mean that all family immigration files have stopped or that existing applications are automatically cancelled.

Can families submit a PGP application in 2026?

Families that have not received an invitation to apply cannot submit a new PGP sponsorship application while the intake is paused. Sending an unsolicited interest-to-sponsor form or application will not create a place in the intake process.

People who already received an invitation should follow the instructions and deadline in their invitation. They should also keep their contact information current and monitor their IRCC account.

What happens to applications already being processed?

Existing PGP applications continue processing. IRCC has planned up to 15,000 admissions through the program for 2026, subject to the applicable processing and admissibility requirements.

Applicants with files in progress should continue responding to requests for documents, medical examinations, biometrics or other information. The pause in new intake is not, by itself, a reason to withdraw an existing application.

Will previous interest-to-sponsor forms remain valid?

Families should not assume that an earlier interest-to-sponsor form creates a current invitation or guarantees a future application opportunity. The pause announcement means that no new forms are being accepted and no new invitations are being issued until further notice.

If you submitted information in an earlier intake, rely on official IRCC correspondence for your specific situation. Keep copies of previous submissions and check your account for any message or request connected to an existing file.

PGP sponsorship versus the Super Visa

PGP sponsorship is intended to lead to permanent residence for eligible parents and grandparents. The Super Visa is a temporary resident option that can allow eligible parents and grandparents to visit family in Canada for extended periods.

The Super Visa does not grant permanent residence and does not replace PGP sponsorship. It may nevertheless be the principal alternative for families who want temporary reunification while the PGP intake is paused.

Super Visa income and medical-insurance requirements

Applicants should review the current Super Visa requirements before applying. The host in Canada generally needs to provide a written invitation, demonstrate that they meet the applicable income requirement and agree to support the visiting parent or grandparent as required.

The applicant also generally needs to obtain the required medical insurance from an eligible insurer and meet medical, admissibility and temporary-residence requirements. Income thresholds, insurance rules and document requirements can change, so families should confirm the current criteria through official IRCC guidance before submitting an application.

Documents families can prepare while intake is paused

• Proof of the sponsor’s Canadian citizenship or permanent resident status.
• Documents showing the family relationship.
• Recent notices of assessment and other financial records, where relevant.
• Identity and civil-status documents for the applicants.
• Immigration history and travel information.
• Medical and insurance documents required for the selected pathway.
• Copies of previous IRCC forms, correspondence and application numbers.

Preparing documents does not create eligibility or guarantee an invitation. It can help families respond quickly when a pathway becomes available or when IRCC requests additional information.

How to avoid immigration misinformation and scams

Be cautious of anyone who claims they can sell a PGP invitation, guarantee admission or submit a special interest form during the pause. IRCC does not issue invitations through unofficial agents or social-media messages.

Verify program announcements through official government sources, avoid paying for guaranteed results and never provide passwords or personal information to an unverified contact. A paid representative may help with advice or document preparation, but no representative can guarantee an immigration decision.

Frequently asked questions

Can I sponsor my parents in Canada in 2026?

Not through a new PGP application if you have not received an invitation. IRCC is not accepting new interest-to-sponsor forms or issuing invitations until further notice.

Are existing PGP applications still being processed?

Yes. Existing applications continue processing, and up to 15,000 admissions are planned for 2026.

Does the Super Visa give parents permanent residence?

No. The Super Visa is temporary and does not grant permanent residence. It is an alternative for extended visits, not a replacement for PGP sponsorship.

Should I withdraw an existing PGP application?

Do not withdraw an application solely because the new intake is paused. Follow official IRCC instructions and respond to requests by the stated deadlines.

What should families do now?

1. Check whether an invitation or active application already exists.
2. Do not submit a new interest-to-sponsor form during the pause.
3. Keep existing applications up to date and monitor IRCC correspondence.
4. Assess the Super Visa if temporary family reunification is the immediate goal.
5. Organize identity, relationship, financial and immigration documents.
6. Verify all advice against current official information before paying or submitting anything.

Ask GovPrepare to review your family-reunification options and organize the required documents.

Bottom line: IRCC is not accepting new PGP interest-to-sponsor forms or issuing invitations until further notice, but existing applications continue processing. Families who need a temporary option should examine the Super Visa carefully, remembering that it does not provide permanent residence.