Parent, grandparent sponsorship deadline approaching

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? The deadline for Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor a parent or grandparent for permanent residency is approaching.

What does the change mean? Those interested in the program must complete required online forms by noon EST Thursday. After the registration period has passed, 10,000 interested sponsors will be randomly selected to apply.

• Implementation time frame: Now until noon EST Thursday, Feb. 2.
• Visas/permits affected: Permanent residency through the Parent and Grandparent 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 as soon as possible.

Background: This is the first year in which sponsors have been given 30 days to register their interest in sponsoring their parent or grandparent online. The sponsorship program opened Jan. 3.

BAL Analysis: The Parent and Grandparent Program remains extremely popular. Interested sponsors who have not yet filled out the online form should do so as soon as possible and should be prepared 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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