by Cristina Zohil-Morton
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by Cristina Zohil-Morton
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Reuniting Parents And Grandparents In Canada When Sponsorship Is Closed
Reuniting parents and grandparents in Canada has become increasingly complex as IRCC continues to limit access to the Parents and Grandparents Program. With sponsorship intakes currently closed and no new applications being accepted, many families are unsure how to plan, how long to wait, or what alternatives exist. Understanding the current landscape is essential to avoid years of uncertainty or status gaps.
Rather than focusing on application mechanics, families must now approach reunification as a long-term legal strategy that accounts for program caps, timing risks, and alternative pathways.
Why Parents And Grandparents Sponsorship Is Currently Closed
IRCC manages parents and grandparents sponsorship through capped intakes due to extremely high demand. Once an intake closes, no new permanent residence applications can be submitted until IRCC announces a future intake. At the date of this blog’s publication, IRCC is processing prior invitations and has not opened a new intake.
This has left many Canadian citizens and permanent residents unable to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residence, despite meeting eligibility and income requirements.
What Families Can And Cannot Do Right Now To Reunite With Parents And Grandparents
When sponsorship is closed, families cannot submit new permanent residence applications for parents or grandparents. Submitting incomplete or speculative applications will result in refusals or returns.
However, families can still take proactive steps to position themselves for future sponsorship opportunities, including income planning, documentation preparation, and alternative status strategies.
If you are unsure whether waiting or pursuing alternatives makes sense in your situation, you can contact us to review your options and avoid missteps.
Using The Super Visa As A Reunification Strategy
One of the most practical options for reuniting parents and grandparents in Canada while sponsorship is closed is the Super Visa. This visa allows eligible parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for extended periods, provided specific insurance and financial requirements are met.
While the Super Visa does not lead directly to permanent residence, it allows families to maintain proximity while monitoring sponsorship developments and preparing for future intakes.
Income Planning And Sponsorship Readiness
Even while sponsorship is closed, families should plan strategically to meet future income thresholds. IRCC assesses eligibility based on prior tax years, meaning delays in preparation can cost families multiple intake cycles.
Families who wait until an intake opens often discover too late that they do not meet Minimum Necessary Income requirements or lack proper documentation.
Common Mistakes Families Make During Closed Periods
When parents and grandparents sponsorship is unavailable, families frequently make avoidable errors, including:
- Allowing visitor status to lapse
- Assuming sponsorship will reopen imminently
- Failing to plan income years in advance
- Submitting Super Visa applications without proper preparation
These mistakes can delay reunification by years and create compliance issues that affect future applications.
Strategic Family Reunification Planning
Reuniting parents and grandparents in Canada now requires a layered strategy that balances temporary residence, long-term sponsorship planning, and compliance management.
At Zohil-Morton Law, we assist families with Super Visa applications, sponsorship readiness planning, and long-term reunification strategies that align with IRCC’s evolving policies.
Still have questions? Book a consultation with Cristina Zohil-Morton and the team at Zohil-Morton Law.
Stay Informed
We’re here to keep you informed and empowered on your Canadian immigration journey.
This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Please consult a licensed immigration professional regarding your specific situation.
Frequently Asked Questions About Reuniting Parents And Grandparents In Canada
Can I apply for parents and grandparents sponsorship right now?
No. IRCC is not currently accepting new sponsorship applications for parents and grandparents.
Is the Super Visa a permanent solution?
No. The Super Visa is a temporary residence option, but it allows families to stay together while planning for future sponsorship opportunities.
Should I wait for sponsorship to reopen?
Waiting without planning can delay reunification. Strategic preparation during closed periods is essential.
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