Are you curious about the latest trends in Canadian immigration, especially concerning the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)? In May 2024, Canada experienced a significant rise in PGP immigration, highlighting the country’s commitment to reuniting families. Let’s dive into the details of this surge and what it means for future immigrants.
Understanding the Recent Surge
According to the latest data from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), May 2024 saw a 48.8% increase in new permanent residents under the PGP. This brought in 3,185 new permanent residents, up from 2,140 in April. This increase far exceeded the overall monthly immigration growth of 9.3%.
Despite this monthly rise, the year-to-date total for PGP immigration is down by 13.4% compared to the same period last year, with 11,115 new permanent residents through May 2024. However, projections suggest Canada could welcome around 26,676 new permanent residents through the PGP by the end of the year, a slight decrease from the 28,305 welcomed last year.
Provincial Highlights
Ontario, Canada’s most populous province, saw the highest number of arrivals under the PGP in the first five months of 2024, with 5,360 parents and grandparents settling there. Here’s a breakdown of arrivals in other provinces and territories during this period:
- Newfoundland and Labrador: 25
- Prince Edward Island: 0
- Nova Scotia: 85
- New Brunswick: 35
- Quebec: 790
- Manitoba: 420
- Saskatchewan: 325
- Alberta: 2,175
- British Columbia: 1,895
- Yukon: 0
- Northwest Territories: 5
- Nunavut: 0
Saskatchewan experienced the largest percentage increase in PGP immigration in May, with the number of new permanent residents rising by 110%.
The 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan
Canada’s ambitious 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan aims to welcome 485,000 new permanent residents in 2024, 500,000 in 2025, and maintain that number in 2026. This totals 1.485 million immigrants over three years. Under the PGP, applicants must pay $1,050 to sponsor a parent or grandparent, with the process taking up to 27 months, including time for biometrics.
Steps to Sponsor Parents and Grandparents
Sponsoring parents and grandparents under the PGP involves several steps. Here’s a simplified guide:
Submit Interest: Canadian citizens or permanent residents submit an interest to sponsor their parents or grandparents.
Receive Invitation: Eligible sponsors receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Submit Applications: Sponsors submit two applications – one for sponsorship and one for permanent residence.
Sign Agreement: If approved, sponsors sign an undertaking agreement, committing to provide financial support for 20 years (10 years in Quebec).
Eligibility Criteria for Sponsors
To sponsor a parent or grandparent, you must meet these criteria:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
- Reside in Canada.
- Have sufficient funds to support the parent or grandparent.
- Provide proof of income (a spouse or common-law partner can co-sign).
- Meet all other requirements under the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act and Regulations.
Responsibilities of Sponsors
Sponsors outside Quebec must promise to support their sponsored family members financially for 20 years, starting when they become permanent residents. This includes providing basic needs such as food, clothing, utilities, personal requirements, shelter, and healthcare not covered by public health insurance. The notable increase in parents and grandparents immigrating to Canada under the PGP in May 2024 highlights Canada’s dedication to family reunification. With the 2024-2026 Immigration Levels Plan, more families will have the chance to be together in Canada.
If you’re considering sponsoring your parents or grandparents, stay informed and prepared. ImmigCanada is here to help you navigate the process smoothly, ensuring your loved ones can join you in this beautiful country.
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