IRCC paused the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) on July 15, 2026. It is not accepting new interest-to-sponsor forms or issuing new invitations until further notice, although existing applications continue to be processed. The Super Visa is a separate multiple-entry temporary resident visa that allows parents and grandparents to visit Canada for up to five years at a time, subject to its own eligibility requirements. Where PGP is closed, the Super Visa is often the only realistic near-term option, though it does not confer status.
Where PGP stands today
IRCC paused the Parents and Grandparents Program on July 15, 2026. It is not accepting new interest-to-sponsor forms or issuing new invitations until further notice, although existing applications continue to be processed. This is distinct from the earlier January 1, 2026 intake restriction. Families with pending files should keep them current. Families who have not submitted at all should plan for a longer horizon and consider the Super Visa in the meantime.
What the Super Visa is designed to do
The Super Visa is a multiple-entry temporary resident visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit for extended periods. It is not a permanent residence pathway and it does not give the visitor the right to work, study or access provincial health care. Its practical value is a long, reliable visiting arrangement.
Financial and insurance requirements
The Canadian child or grandchild providing the invitation must meet minimum necessary income for their household size, including the visiting parent or grandparent. Applicants must hold Canadian medical insurance valid for at least one year from entry, from an approved insurer, meeting IRCC's minimum coverage.
Choosing between the two
If the family's goal is permanent residence and PGP is not yet open, the Super Visa can provide continuity while waiting. If the family only wants extended visits, the Super Visa is normally the better fit. In either case, plan the two paths together so that a Super Visa application does not undermine a future permanent residence file.
Comparison table
PGP was paused by IRCC on July 15, 2026. This table reflects that current status, not an assumption that the program is open.
| Consideration | Parents and Grandparents Program | Super Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Current intake status | Paused since July 15, 2026. No new interest-to-sponsor forms or invitations until further notice. | Available and processing normally, subject to eligibility. |
| What it leads to | Permanent residence. | A temporary resident visa for extended visits, not permanent residence. |
| Who decides | IRCC, through the sponsorship process. | IRCC, based on Super Visa eligibility requirements. |
| What must be shown | Sponsor eligibility and a genuine parent or grandparent relationship, when intake is open. | A written invitation, minimum income proof from the host, and Canadian medical insurance. |
| Typical duration of stay | Ongoing, as a permanent resident. | Up to five years at a time, with possible in-Canada extensions. |
| Existing applications | Continue to be processed even while intake is paused. | Not applicable. |
| What it does not do | Cannot be newly requested while intake remains paused. | Does not confer permanent status, work rights, study rights or provincial health care access. |
This table is a general orientation. The correct route depends on the facts of your matter, the timing of each step and the evidence you can actually produce.
Common mistakes
- Waiting for a PGP intake that has not yet reopened while the family postpones a Super Visa application.
- Buying Canadian medical insurance that does not meet the minimum coverage threshold.
- Underestimating minimum necessary income. All family members are counted.
- Assuming a Super Visa converts to permanent residence. It does not.
When professional help may be useful
If the family situation includes prior refusals, health concerns, income near the MNI threshold, or an intention to eventually apply for permanent residence, an assessment before filing usually helps.
Official sources
- IRCC: Parents and Grandparents Program (current intake status)
- IRCC: Super Visa for parents and grandparents
- IRCC: Minimum necessary income (MNI) tables
Program rules change. Check the official source for current requirements.
Where this fits
For how we work on this, Parents and grandparents sponsorship. Terms used above are defined in the glossary, and related questions are answered in the FAQ.
About the reviewer
Awal Takkar, President, RCIC at Immigrate Now. RCIC (R531017), regulated by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants.