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Applying for PR through Canada’s Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)? Avoid These 5 Critical Mistakes

ICC Immigration Inc > Blogs > Announcement > Applying for PR through Canada’s Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)? Avoid These 5 Critical Mistakes

If you’ve recently received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) under the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), congratulations—this could be your only opportunity in years to sponsor your parents or grandparents for Permanent Residency (PR) in Canada. Since invitations are issued through a lottery system and new intakes are rare, it’s crucial to avoid errors that could result in your application being rejected or returned.

In this blog, we’ll break down the top 5 mistakes applicants make under the PGP and offer expert guidance on how to avoid them. Plus, discover how ICC Immigration can help you navigate the process with confidence.

1. Submitting an Incomplete Application

An incomplete application is the most common reason for IRCC refusing to process a file under the PGP. Missing documents, unchecked fields, or incorrect fees can all result in a returned application.

✅ What to do:

  • Use the official document checklist available on the IRCC website.

  • Ensure you’ve included all required forms, signatures, and supporting documents.

  • Respond promptly (within 30 days) if IRCC requests missing documents.

⏳ Remember: If your application is returned, you may need to wait years for another ITA.

2. Responding to IRCC from the Wrong Email

Applicants often respond to IRCC using “no-reply” email addresses, which are not monitored. As a result, crucial updates or documents may never be received.

✅ What to do:

  • Double-check email addresses before responding.

  • Follow the specific instructions IRCC provides in their communication.

  • For updates or document submissions, always use the IRCC Webform unless instructed otherwise.

3. Inconsistencies Between Interest-to-Sponsor Form and Application

Many applicants submitted their interest-to-sponsor forms back in 2020, and inconsistencies between that form and the current application can trigger a refusal.

✅ What to do:

  • Cross-check your application with the original details submitted in 2020.

  • Ensure names, dates, contact information, and family composition match.

  • Be aware that even unintentional discrepancies may be treated as misrepresentation under Canadian immigration law.

4. Improper Signatures and Missing Validations

Incorrect signatures and failure to validate forms can cause your application to be marked incomplete.

✅ What to do:

  • For paper applications, use handwritten signatures where required.

  • For electronic forms, ensure you use the built-in electronic signature feature.

  • Always validate IRCC forms using the “Validate” button (generates a 2D barcode). Validation confirms all mandatory fields are completed.

💡 Note: Use Adobe Acrobat Reader 10 or higher to properly complete and validate your application forms.

5. Omitting Unemployment Periods from Resumes

IRCC often expects complete employment history, and omitting gaps—even unintentionally—can raise red flags or lead to refusals.

✅ What to do:

  • Ensure the resumes of your parents or grandparents include all periods, including times of unemployment.

  • Update LinkedIn or other public-facing job profiles to match the application.

  • Present a consistent and honest employment history.

How ICC Immigration Can Help You Sponsor Family and Secure PR

Navigating Canada’s immigration system, especially through family sponsorship, can be overwhelming. That’s where ICC Immigration steps in.

With years of experience and a proven track record, we help families reunite under the most secure and stable immigration streams—without resorting to risky or uncertain options like asylum claims.

✅ Our Comprehensive Services:

  • Permanent Residency Applications through PGP, Express Entry, and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)

  • Study and Work Permits to support your career or education goals in Canada

  • Family Sponsorship, including parents, grandparents, spouses, and dependents

  • Expert Legal Advice to ensure full compliance with current IRCC policies

🎯 Instead of relying on the unpredictable asylum route, choose a clear, legal, and permanent path to Canadian residency. ICC Immigration ensures every step of your journey is professionally handled and optimized for success.

Final Thoughts

Applying through the Parents and Grandparents Program is a rare and valuable opportunity to bring your loved ones to Canada. Avoiding these five common mistakes can significantly increase your chances of success.

But you don’t have to go through it alone.

📞 Connect with ICC Immigration today and get personalized advice from experts who understand Canada’s evolving immigration system.