Parent/grandparent sponsorship program now open

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change?  Canada opened its parent and grandparent sponsorship program Tuesday, allowing Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor a parent or grandparent for permanent residency.

What does the change mean? This is the first year in which sponsors will have 30 days to register their interest to sponsor their parent or grandparent online. After the 30-day registration period has passed, 10,000 interested sponsors will be randomly selected to apply.

• Implementation time frame: Jan. 3 to Feb. 2, noon EST.
• Visas/permits affected: Permanent residency through the Parent and Grandparent sponsorship program.
• Who is affected: Canadian citizens and permanent residents sponsoring parents or grandparents.
• Impact on processing times:  Individuals who are invited to apply will have 90 days to submit their completed applications.
• Next steps: Interested applicants should fill out the Interest to Sponsor web form on the Canadian Government website.

BAL Analysis: The program remains extremely popular. Interested sponsors should register their interest as soon as possible and be ready to apply within the 90-day timeframe should they receive an invitation.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in Canada. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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