Is 2026 the year you finally bring your parents or grandparents to Canada? The Canada Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) is one of the most popular ways for families to reunite in Canada. Many people want to sponsor their parents or grandparents to live here as permanent residents. But things change, so it is important to know the latest information.
This guide explains the current situation for PGP in 2026. It covers the main rules, money needs, how the selection works, and the Super Visa as a good option. The goal is to help you understand your choices and make the best plan for your family. We use simple words so it is easy to read.
The PGP 2026 Lottery: How the Selection Works
The PGP uses a random selection process, like a lottery. In the past, people first sent an “Interest to Sponsor” form. IRCC put these in a pool. Then, they picked some people randomly and sent them an Invitation to Apply (ITA). Only those with an ITA could send the full application.
But for 2026, things are different. IRCC has said no new applications will start in 2026. They will not accept new Interest to Sponsor forms. They will only finish processing some applications from 2025. The maximum is about 10,000 applications from the old pool (mostly from 2020 forms). This is to clear the backlog of old cases.
Many people ask, “Will there be a new interest to sponsor form in 2026?” Right now, the answer is no. IRCC may open the program again later, but they have not said when. If you have an old form in the pool from before, keep your contact information up to date. Check the IRCC website often for any news.
PGP 2026 Lottery Draw Dates
In past years, lottery draws or invitations happened in spring or fall. But in 2026, there is no new lottery or draw planned. The focus is on finishing old applications. IRCC wants to reduce waiting times and backlogs first.
Experts say the program may come back in the future with changes. For now, no new draws will happen in 2026. Stay updated by checking the official Canada.ca website or IRCC social media.
Sponsor Parents to Canada 2026 Requirements
To sponsor parents or grandparents, you must meet some basic rules. You need to be:
- A Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian under the Canadian Indian Act.
- At least 18 years old.
- Living in Canada.
You must also show you can support them financially. This is the hardest part for many people.
The Financial Pillar: Minimum Necessary Income (MNI)
The biggest rule is the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI). You must prove your income is high enough for three years in a row. IRCC checks this with your tax papers from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). You need your Notice of Assessment (NOA) for each year.
The MNI is based on the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) plus 30%. This number changes every year and depends on your family size.
For example, what is the MNI for a family of 4 sponsoring parents in 2026? If you are a family of four (you, your spouse, and two children) and you want to sponsor two parents, your total household size is six. You must meet the MNI for a 6-person household for the last three tax years (like 2022, 2023, and 2024 for recent intakes).
Here are some example MNI numbers from recent years (these change, so check IRCC for the latest):
- For 6 people: Around $90,000 or more in recent years for one of the tax years.
- The numbers are higher for bigger families.
If your income is not enough alone, you can add a co-signer. Many people ask, “Can I co-sign for my in-laws’ PGP application?” Yes, your spouse or common-law partner can co-sign. Their income can help meet the MNI.
You must sign papers saying you will support your parents or grandparents. This is a big promise.
PGP vs. Super Visa: Which is Right for You?
The PGP lottery is hard because it is random and now closed for new people in 2026. So, many choose the Super Visa instead. It is faster and more sure.
Here is a simple comparison:
| Feature | Parent & Grandparent Program (PGP) | Canada Super Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Permanent Resident (PR) | Temporary Resident (Visitor) |
| Selection | Random Lottery / ITA | Application-based (No lottery) |
| Stay Duration | Indefinite (live forever) | Up to 5 years per entry (with multiple entries) |
| Undertaking | 20-year agreement | No long-term undertaking |
| Health Coverage | Provincial health care (like OHIP) | Must buy private medical insurance |
The Super Visa lets parents or grandparents stay longer than a normal visitor visa. It can be valid for up to 10 years, with stays of up to 5 years each time. You can apply any time, not just in a lottery.
Why Choose the Super Visa?
The big difference is speed and certainty. PGP can take years and may not happen at all in 2026. Super Visa can process in months. Parents get to come sooner and stay long.
To get a Super Visa, you need:
- A Letter of Invitation from you (the child or grandchild in Canada).
- Proof you meet income rules (lower than PGP, based on LICO without the extra 30%).
- Private medical insurance from a Canadian company for at least one year (it must cover health costs).
This is good if your parents want to visit now while waiting for PGP changes.
Crucial Legal & Health Considerations
- The 20-Year Undertaking If you sponsor for PGP (permanent residence), you sign a 20-year undertaking. This means you are responsible for their basic needs. If they get government help like social assistance, you must pay it back. This lasts 20 years, even if you lose your job, divorce, or move.
- Medical Inadmissibility 2026 Parents must pass a medical exam. If they have health problems that cost too much for Canada’s health system (called “excessive demand”), they may not get in. But the cost limit changes each year, so some conditions are now okay.
Actionable Checklist for 2026 Sponsors
Here is a simple list to follow:
- Gather NOAs: Get your tax Notices of Assessment for the last three years (like 2023, 2024, 2025 if applying later).
- Calculate Household Size: Add yourself, spouse, children, and the parents/grandparents you want to sponsor.
- Check the Pool: If you have an old Interest to Sponsor form, update your email and address on IRCC site.
- Consider the Super Visa: If you want them to come soon, start Super Visa papers now. It is open all year.
- Stay Informed: Visit Canada.ca often for PGP news. Sign up for updates if possible.
Family reunification takes time and planning. In 2026, PGP is paused for new people, but Super Visa is a strong choice for many families.
Are you ready for 2026? Think about what is best for your parents or grandparents. Ask questions about income or Super Visa if you need help. Share this guide with friends in the same situation.
Disclaimer: This article is for information only. Always check the official IRCC website (Canada.ca) for the latest rules before you apply. Rules can change.