Getting an invitation under Canada’s Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) is a big deal. With so many people vying for limited spots, being selected can feel like winning a lottery. But after the initial excitement wears off, reality sets in—how do you make sure everything is done correctly and on time?
This blog offers a clear, step-by-step legal checklist to help you through the PGP process. Whether you’re sponsoring your parents or grandparents, or both, you’ll want to avoid delays or rejections due to missing documents or incorrect submissions. And if things feel overwhelming, a trusted Canada visa lawyer can offer support at every step.
Step 1: Understand What the Invitation Means
The PGP invitation means Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has randomly selected your interest in the sponsor form. You’re now eligible to submit a full sponsorship application.
But this invitation doesn’t guarantee approval. You’ll need to meet all requirements, submit proper documents, and prove your financial ability to support your family members once they arrive in Canada.
Deadline Alert:
You typically have 60 days from the date of invitation to submit a complete application package. Missing the deadline means losing your chance this year.
Step 2: Gather Required Forms and Documents
To build a solid application, you’ll need to prepare two sets of forms: one from you (the sponsor) and one from your parent(s)/grandparent(s).
Sponsor Forms:
- IMM 1344 – Application to Sponsor, Sponsorship Agreement
- IMM 5768 – Financial Evaluation Form (check the income requirement for your province)
- IMM 5669 – Background/Declaration Form (for each person being sponsored)
- Proof of Status in Canada (e.g., copy of PR card or citizenship certificate)
Documents You’ll Also Need:
- Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the Canada Revenue Agency for the past 3 tax years
- Proof of income if NOAs are unavailable (e.g., pay stubs, T4s)
- Marriage certificate (if sponsoring with a spouse or common-law partner)
- Signed copy of the PGP Invitation letter
- Identity documents of the applicants (passports, national IDs)
- Police clearance and medical exams for your parents or grandparents (later in the process)
Tip: Review the official IRCC document checklist to make sure nothing is missed.
Step 3: Confirm You Meet the Financial Requirement
Sponsorship comes with responsibility. You must show that you’ve earned at least the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) for each of the past 3 years. The amount depends on the size of your family unit, including the people you’re sponsoring.
For example:
If you’re a family of four and you’re sponsoring two parents, your family size becomes six. Check the required income level for a family of six and compare it with your NOAs for the past three tax years.
If you do not meet the income requirement, your application will be refused. In that case, you may want to consider applying for a Super Visa instead.
Step 4: Double Check for Common Errors
Before you submit, take time to double-check these issues—most delays or rejections stem from small mistakes.
- Missing signatures (especially on IMM 1344)
- Inconsistent information (dates, names, family members)
- Not including translations for documents in a language other than English or French
- Uploading poor-quality scans or photographs
- Using outdated versions of forms
If something’s unclear, don’t guess. A Canada visa lawyer can review your documents and fix potential issues before you file.
Step 5: Submit the Application Package
Once everything is ready, you must submit your application online through the IRCC Permanent Residence Portal. You’ll upload your forms and documents and pay your fees electronically.
Keep a digital and printed copy of everything you submit, along with your confirmation of submission.
Step 6: Prepare for Biometrics, Medical Exams, and Police Certificates
After your application is submitted, IRCC will likely send additional requests:
- Biometrics appointment: Required for all applicants unless already provided in a recent application.
- Medical exam: Must be done by a panel physician approved by IRCC.
- Police certificate: Needed from each country where the applicant lived for more than six months since turning 18.
These steps are critical. Delays in completing them can hold up your entire application.
Step 7: Track Your Application and Respond Promptly
Use your IRCC account to check the status of your file. You may receive additional requests for information, document clarifications, or interviews.
Respond as soon as possible to any communication from IRCC. Set email filters to ensure that important messages don’t end up in your spam folder.
Legal Support: Do You Need a Lawyer?
You’re not required to hire a lawyer to submit your PGP application. But given the strict deadlines, income rules, and paperwork, many people choose legal support to get peace of mind.
Here’s when working with a lawyer is especially helpful:
- You’re sponsoring multiple applicants or blended families
- You have income near the threshold and want to maximize your proof
- You’ve had issues in past immigration applications
- Your parents or grandparents have health or security concerns
A Canada visa lawyer can help review your forms, guide you through next steps, and even prepare responses if IRCC sends a procedural fairness letter or requests further clarification.
Final Thoughts
Getting selected under the Parents and Grandparents Program is a rare and valuable opportunity. It means you may soon be able to reunite your family permanently in Canada. But a PGP invitation is only the beginning. Meeting the requirements, organizing documents, and submitting a complete application on time is critical to success.
Follow the steps outlined in this checklist to stay organized and informed. Don’t rush, but don’t delay either. And if at any point you’re unsure, contact a Canada visa lawyer who can walk you through the process.
With preparation and timely action, you’ll be one step closer to bringing your loved ones home.
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