What the pause means
| Your situation | What happens |
|---|---|
| You haven't applied yet | You can't submit a new interest form or apply for now |
| Your application is already in process | IRCC says it's still processing existing applications |
| You're waiting to hear about a past interest form | IRCC isn't inviting potential sponsors until further notice |
IRCC plans to approve up to 15,000 people for PR through the PGP in 2026. It says interest keeps exceeding the available spaces, and that the pause should help reduce processing times. No restart date has been announced, so be wary of anyone promising a spot.
The super visa: the main alternative
A super visa isn't permanent residence, but it lets your parents or grandparents stay for long periods.
| Super visa | PGP | |
|---|---|---|
| Status | Visitor | Permanent resident |
| Length | Up to 5 years at a time, multiple entries for up to 10 years | Permanent |
| Can apply now? | Yes | No |
| Income test | Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) | LICO + 30%, for 3 years |
| Medical insurance | Required: at least $100,000, valid 1 year from entry | Provincial health care once eligible |
| Can they work? | No | Yes |
| Fee | $100 per person + biometrics | $1,260 per adult |
Read the full super visa guide.
Super visa income (LICO)
| People in household | Minimum income (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $30,526 |
| 2 | $38,002 |
| 3 | $46,720 |
| 4 | $56,724 |
| 5 | $64,336 |
| 6 | $72,560 |
| 7 | $80,784 |
| Each extra person | $8,224 |
The household includes you, your spouse, your dependent children, the visiting parents and anyone you've sponsored. Since March 31, 2026, you can meet the income in either of the two tax years before applying, and in some cases the visitor's own income can help. Always check IRCC's current table.
Other options
- Visitor visa: for shorter stays, with no income test. You'll need an invitation letter in many cases.
- Your parent's own route: a parent may qualify on their own, for example through a work or PR program. It's unusual, but worth checking if they're younger.
- Other relative rules: these are narrow. Get advice if you think one applies.
How to get ready for a future intake
If the PGP reopens, the income test looks back over 3 tax years. So:
- File your taxes on time each year, with your spouse if they'll co-sign.
- Keep your Notices of Assessment.
- Watch IRCC's notices or our news page for any announcement.
We can't predict when or if it will reopen, or what the rules will be.
FAQs
Can I still sponsor my parents in 2026?
Not through a new application. IRCC isn't accepting new interest to sponsor forms or sending invitations until further notice.
When will the PGP reopen?
IRCC hasn't given a date.
Can my parents apply for a super visa while waiting?
Yes, if they meet the rules. It's a separate application.
How much income do I need for a super visa?
At least the LICO for your household size. It's $64,336 for a household of 5, using IRCC's table updated July 29, 2025.