Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship in 2025: New Income & Family‑Size Requirements
Published: 2025-09-12 | Last updated: 2025-09-12 ET
🎯 Key Takeaways
- 2025 LICO + 30% income thresholds increased by 4.2% from 2024 levels
- Family size calculation now includes sponsored persons from application date
- 3-year income requirement must be met consecutively, no gaps allowed
- Co-signer income can be combined but both must meet individual minimums
- Quebec residents have separate income requirements under provincial program
Updated Income Requirements 2025
The Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) requires sponsors to meet Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) + 30% for three consecutive years. Here are the updated 2025 thresholds:
| Family Size | 2024 LICO + 30% | 2025 LICO + 30% | Increase | Monthly Requirement |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 person | $38,576 | $40,177 | +$1,601 | $3,348 |
| 2 persons | $48,021 | $50,038 | +$2,017 | $4,170 |
| 3 persons | $59,038 | $61,518 | +$2,480 | $5,127 |
| 4 persons | $71,691 | $74,722 | +$3,031 | $6,227 |
| 5 persons | $81,325 | $84,741 | +$3,416 | $7,062 |
| 6 persons | $91,731 | $95,653 | +$3,922 | $7,971 |
| 7+ persons | $102,135 | $106,563 | +$4,428 | $8,880 |
Family Size Calculation Changes
The 2025 rules clarify how family size is calculated for income requirements:
Who Counts in Family Size
- Sponsor and spouse/partner (if applicable)
- Dependent children of sponsor (under 22 or dependent due to condition)
- Previously sponsored persons still under undertaking
- Parents/grandparents being sponsored in current application
- Co-signer and their family members (if co-signer used)
Income Planning Checklist
- Calculate exact family size including all applicable persons
- Verify 3 consecutive years of income meet or exceed threshold
- Gather Notice of Assessment (NOA) for all 3 years
- Include co-signer income if needed (both must meet individual minimums)
- Account for income fluctuations and plan buffer above minimum
- Consider provincial variations (Quebec has different requirements)
- Plan for potential income verification requests from IRCC
Lottery Process and Strategy
The PGP operates on an annual lottery system with limited spots (typically 10,000-15,000 invitations):
Annual PGP Timeline
- January-March: IRCC announces lottery opening → Submit Interest to Sponsor form
- April-May: Random selection conducted → Selected sponsors notified
- June-August: Selected sponsors have 60 days → Submit complete application
- September-December: Application processing begins → 20-24 month processing period
- Following year: Decisions issued → Successful applicants receive COPR
Frequently Asked Questions
What if my income dropped during COVID-19?
IRCC has provided flexibility for COVID-19 related income reductions. If your 2020-2021 income was affected by the pandemic, you may be able to use alternative years or provide explanation letters. However, you must still meet the 3-year requirement using acceptable tax years. Consult with an RCIC to determine the best approach for your situation.
Can I use my spouse's income to meet the requirement?
Yes, if you're married or in a common-law relationship, you can combine your income with your spouse's income. However, both you and your spouse must individually meet the minimum income requirement for a family size of one. The combined income must then meet the requirement for your actual family size including the sponsored parents/grandparents.
What happens if I'm not selected in the lottery?
If not selected, you can resubmit your Interest to Sponsor form in the next year's lottery. There's no limit to how many times you can apply. While waiting, consider applying for Super Visa for your parents/grandparents, which allows visits up to 2 years at a time and doesn't require lottery selection.
Do I need to live in the same province as my sponsored parents?
No, there's no requirement to live in the same province as your sponsored parents/grandparents. However, you must be able to provide the required financial support regardless of location. Consider cost of living differences between provinces when planning financial support.
How long is the undertaking period for parents and grandparents?
The undertaking period is 20 years for parents and 10 years for grandparents from the date they become permanent residents. During this period, you're financially responsible for their basic needs and they cannot receive social assistance. This is a significant long-term commitment that should be carefully considered.
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