suspension of the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program, a decision that impacts many families hoping for reunification. This measure aims to reassess the program's parameters and improve immigration processes.
Stricter Measures Amid Generous Immigration History
Known for its welcoming approach and generous immigration policies, Canada is now taking steps to better control arrivals and streamline integration. According to a ministerial directive published in the Canada Gazette, the government remains committed to family reunification but is prioritizing applications received in 2024. This decision aligns with a broader immigration strategy.
Focus on Pending Applications
For 2025, no new sponsorship applications for parents and grandparents will be accepted. Instead, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will process the 15,000 applications submitted in 2024, limiting the intake to 24,000 individuals—a 20% reduction compared to previous years.
Marc Miller, Minister of Immigration, emphasized that this approach supports Canada’s objectives for immigration and family reunification. However, the growing backlog, with over 40,000 pending applications and processing delays averaging 24 months, highlights significant challenges.
Reduced Immigration Targets
The Canadian immigration plan aims to reduce overall levels over the next three years. The target for parent and grandparent sponsorship approvals was 20,500, but in 2023, 30,700 individuals were randomly selected, further straining processing capacities.
Key Points of the Suspension
Temporary halt to new applications for 2025.
The government will process pending applications submitted in 2024.
A 20% reduction in quotas for family sponsorship arrivals.
Alternatives may be introduced under new immigration policies.
What's Next for Applicants?
While the duration of this suspension remains unclear, the Canadian government may introduce alternative measures to address the needs of families seeking reunification. Applicants are encouraged to monitor updates on the government’s immigration policies.
This suspension reflects Canada’s effort to balance family reunification goals with the realities of processing capacities and integration challenges. Families impacted by this decision should explore other possible immigration pathways in the meantime.
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