Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship 2026: Is There a Lottery This Year?
Every year, families across Canada wait to see whether IRCC will invite them to sponsor their parents and grandparents. In 2026, the answer is no. On July 15, 2026, Canada paused new applications under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). IRCC said it will not accept new interest to sponsor forms or invite potential sponsors to apply until further notice, while it continues processing existing applications.
This guide explains what the 2026 PGP pause means, what happens to applications already in the system, how the program works when it is open, and the practical alternatives families can use now.
Quick Summary
There is no Parents and Grandparents Program lottery in 2026. On July 15, 2026, IRCC paused new interest to sponsor forms and invitations until further notice. About 50,900 PGP applications remain in processing, and Canada still plans to admit 15,000 parents and grandparents each year through 2028. The super visa, which allows stays of up to five years per entry, is the main alternative for now.
What Happened to the PGP in 2026?
The last intake for new interest to sponsor forms took place in 2020, when more than 200,000 people submitted forms in about three weeks. IRCC then held invitation rounds from that pool in later years, through 2025. On July 15, 2026, IRCC announced it would not receive new interest to sponsor forms or invite potential sponsors to apply until further notice. No date has been announced for reopening.
What Happens to Existing PGP Applications?
IRCC continues to process applications already submitted. In July 2026, its inventory included about 50,900 PGP applications: roughly 40,400 outside Quebec and 10,500 in Quebec. Canada’s immigration levels plan targets 15,000 parent and grandparent admissions each year in 2026, 2027 and 2028.
If you already applied:
- Keep your contact information current with IRCC.
- Respond quickly to requests for medicals, police certificates or updated documents.
- Keep proof of your income for the required tax years.
How the PGP Works When It Is Open
Understanding the process helps you prepare for a future intake.
Step 1: Interest to sponsor
Potential sponsors submit an online interest to sponsor form during an intake period.
Step 2: Invitation
IRCC invites sponsors, often by random selection from the pool, to submit full applications.
Step 3: Full application
Invited sponsors submit the sponsorship and permanent residence applications with proof of income and supporting documents.
Step 4: Processing and landing
IRCC assesses the sponsor’s eligibility and the parents’ or grandparents’ admissibility, then issues permanent residence if approved.
Planning to sponsor your spouse or partner?
Book a ConsultationSponsor Income Requirements
PGP sponsors must meet the Minimum Necessary Income plus 30% for each of the three tax years before applying, based on Canada Revenue Agency notices of assessment. Quebec has its own requirements. Sponsors also sign an undertaking to support their parents or grandparents for 20 years (10 years in Quebec), and repay any social assistance they receive during that period.
Alternatives for Families in 2026
| Option | What it offers | Key requirements |
|---|---|---|
| Super visa | Stays of up to 5 years per entry; visa valid up to 10 years | Invitation letter, host income at the minimum necessary level, one year of private health insurance, medical exam |
| Visitor visa | Shorter visits, usually up to 6 months per entry | Proof of ties, funds and purpose |
| Economic immigration | Permanent residence in their own right, if eligible | Program requirements such as language, education and work experience |
| Humanitarian and compassionate applications | Exceptional cases | Strong humanitarian factors |
For most families, the super visa offers the most practical way to keep parents and grandparents close while PGP intake is paused.
How to Prepare for a Future PGP Intake
- File your taxes on time every year and keep notices of assessment.
- Track your household income against the Minimum Necessary Income plus 30%.
- Gather proof of relationship, such as birth certificates showing your parents’ names.
- Keep your parents’ passports valid.
- Watch official IRCC announcements and avoid anyone promising guaranteed invitations.
How Can X Global Solutions Helps
At Can X Global Solutions, we help families stay ready for future PGP intakes and bring parents to Canada now through well-prepared super visa applications. With 10+ years of experience and clients from more than 30 countries, we understand how important it is to keep families together.
Explore our parents and grandparents sponsorship services, visitor and super visa support and family sponsorship page, or get started today.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is there a parent and grandparent sponsorship lottery in 2026?
No. On July 15, 2026, IRCC paused new interest to sponsor forms and invitations under the Parents and Grandparents Program until further notice. Existing applications continue processing, and IRCC has not announced when new intake will resume. The super visa remains available for long visits.
What happens to my PGP application if I already applied?
IRCC continues to process applications already submitted. In July 2026, about 50,900 PGP applications were in processing. Keep your contact details current, respond quickly to any requests, and maintain proof of income for the required tax years until IRCC decides your application.
How much income do I need to sponsor my parents?
When the program is open, sponsors generally must meet the Minimum Necessary Income plus 30% for each of the three tax years before applying, based on Canada Revenue Agency notices of assessment. The required amount depends on family size. Quebec applies its own requirements.
What is the best alternative to PGP in 2026?
For most families, the super visa is the best alternative. It allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years per entry, with a visa valid for up to 10 years. Applicants need a host who meets the income requirement, private health insurance and a medical exam.
How This Guide Helps You
The PGP pause is disappointing for many families, and confusion makes it harder. This guide explains exactly what changed, what happens to existing applications and which options remain open. With clear next steps, families can keep their parents close through the super visa today while preparing for a future intake.
Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal immigration advice. Consult a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer for guidance specific to your situation.
Book a consultation with Can X Global Solutions. We have helped clients from 30+ countries make Canada home, and we can help you keep your family together.
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