Parent and grandparent sponsorship
Parent and grandparent sponsorship lets citizens and permanent residents bring parents to live permanently. Places are limited: Canada invites a set number of potential sponsors in each intake, and Australia's parent visas have long queues. Many families use a long-stay visitor option such as the Canada Super Visa while they wait.
Who can sponsor?
- Citizens or permanent residents aged 18 or over.
- Sponsors who meet the minimum income requirement for the required years (Canada).
- Sponsors willing to sign a financial undertaking for their parents.
How do the main countries compare?
| Country | Route | Key point |
|---|---|---|
| Canada | Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) | Invitations to a limited number of sponsors per intake |
| Australia | Parent and contributory parent visas | Long queues; contributory visas cost more but are faster |
| UK | Adult dependent relative | Very narrow route for parents needing long-term care |
Costs and timelines
Government fees differ by country; Australia's contributory parent visas involve a significant contribution. Processing can take years. Check official processing times.
Step by step (Canada)
- Submit an interest to sponsor form when IRCC opens the intake.
- If invited, submit the sponsorship and PR applications with income proof.
- Parents complete medicals, biometrics and police certificates.
Documents checklist
- Proof of the sponsor's status and income (tax assessments).
- Birth certificates proving the relationship.
- Parents' passports, police certificates and medicals.
Common reasons for refusal
- Sponsor income below the required level.
- Missing relationship evidence.
- Medical inadmissibility.
Frequently asked questions
How does Canada choose parent sponsors?
IRCC invites a limited number of potential sponsors from those who submitted an interest to sponsor form. Intake rules can change each year, so check the IRCC page for the current round.
What if my parents are not selected?
The Canada Super Visa is a common alternative that allows long stays without permanent residence.