Parents and grandparents can apply for permanent residence in Canada on humanitarian and compassionate (H&C) grounds, but this pathway is not meant to be an alternative immigration program for those who are unable to obtain a spot in the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP). However, H&C is certainly an option in some cases, and this should be explored with us to determine the chances of success. The law requires that officers conduct a global assessment of the individual circumstances presented and decide whether there are important and compelling reasons to approve the application, even though the person does not meet the usual requirements of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act. This means that simply wanting to reunite with family is not enough; the case must demonstrate factors that make it exceptional.

The PGP itself has become increasingly difficult to access. For the 2025 intake, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada issued only about 17,860 invitations to apply, with a target of 10,000 completed sponsorships. These invitations were drawn from the pool of individuals who submitted interest to sponsor forms way back in 2020, which means many families have been waiting years without receiving an invitation. Between 2020 and 2022, while the government targeted up to 79,000 admissions of parents and grandparents, only about 49,475 were finalized, partly due to pandemic-related processing delays. The result is that large numbers of families remain separated despite being willing and able to sponsor.

In some cases, parents or grandparents have been able to persuade an officer to approve permanent residence on H&C grounds. Success depends on presenting a complete picture of the person’s life, their connection to Canada, and the serious challenges that would result from refusal. Relevant factors can include the degree of establishment in Canada, the importance and depth of family relationships in Canada, the emotional and practical support they provide or receive, and the physical, emotional or psychological impact on themselves, their children, their grandchildren or other dependants in Canada if the application were refused. Officers may also consider the applicant’s immigration history, original reasons for coming to Canada, whether they have complied with Canadian laws, and whether any circumstances were beyond their control.

Evidence is critical to strengthening an H&C application for a parent or grandparent. This can include proof of residence and establishment in Canada, letters confirming the role they play in the family’s daily life, school or childcare records demonstrating their involvement with grandchildren, statements from family members outlining the emotional, financial, or caregiving dependency, photographs and written statements showing family integration, psychological or medical evidence, community letters demonstrating activities and involvement, and financial records that confirm stability and self-sufficiency. The more specific and consistent the evidence, the more persuasive the application.

At Elliott Immigration Corporation, we take a detailed and strategic approach to H&C cases, especially when they involve close family relationships. We assess all relevant factors, gather compelling supporting evidence, and present the strongest possible case within the legal framework. If you are considering permanent residence for a parent or grandparent and believe there are exceptional circumstances, contact Elliott Immigration Corporation for a thorough evaluation of your options.