Toronto: Canada has dealt a major setback to many Punjabi families by tightening its immigration rules. Under the new changes, the permanent residence (PR) pathway for elderly parents and grandparents coming to Canada on caregiving grounds has been put on hold.
However, the option of a super visa remains available. Under this visa, parents and grandparents can stay in Canada continuously for up to five years. The Canadian immigration department has clarified that the restriction applies only to PR for elderly parents and grandparents and not to travel itself. Those wishing to visit Canada temporarily for tourism or short stays can still apply for relevant visas without restrictions.
As part of its immigration plan for 2026 to 2028, the Canadian government is reducing the overall number of PR admissions. Under this cut, new applications under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) have been stopped. No new PGP applications are being accepted in 2025.
Only applications submitted in 2024 will be processed. In 2024, Canada issued around 27,330 new PR visas under the Parents and Grandparents Program.
In addition, the Canadian government has also shut down its caregiver program.
