For many Canadian citizens and permanent residents, bringing their parents and grandparents to live with them in Canada is a dream. The Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program (PGP) allows families to reunite and build their lives together in Canada. However, one of the most important—and sometimes confusing—requirements of this program is the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI).
In this blog, we’ll explain what income requirements you need to meet, how the income is calculated, common mistakes to avoid, and tips to improve your chances of approval.
What Is the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program?
The PGP program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents and grandparents for permanent residency (PR) in Canada. Sponsored individuals can enjoy healthcare, work opportunities, and the security of living closer to their families.
But unlike other sponsorship programs, the financial responsibility here is higher because sponsors commit to supporting their parents or grandparents financially for 20 years (or 10 years in Quebec).
Why Income Requirements Matter?
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) sets income requirements to ensure that sponsors can financially support their parents or grandparents without relying on social assistance.
If you do not meet the income requirements, your application may be refused. This is why proving your financial eligibility is the cornerstone of a successful sponsorship application.
The Minimum Necessary Income (MNI)
To qualify, you must show that your household income meets or exceeds the MNI threshold for each of the last three consecutive taxation years before the date you apply.
The MNI depends on two factors:
1. The number of people in your family unit (household size)
2. The Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) + 30% adjustment
Household Size Calculation
Your household size includes:
You (the sponsor)
Your spouse/common-law partner (if co-signing)
Your dependent children
The sponsored parents or grandparents
Any other individuals you are financially responsible for
👉 Example: If you, your spouse, and two dependent children want to sponsor both parents, your household size is 6.
2024 MNI Example (Outside Quebec)
Here’s a simplified version of the MNI requirement (actual figures update yearly):
Household Size Minimum Necessary Income (Approx.)
2 people $44,500+
3 people $54,000+
4 people $65,000+
5 people $74,000+
6 people $84,000+
7 people $93,500+
(Each additional person adds around $9,500–$10,000 to the requirement.
Documents Needed to Prove Income
IRCC verifies your income using:
Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) for the past 3 years
Proof of employment (job letter, pay stubs, T4 slips)
Bank statements (in some cases)
You cannot use assets like property or savings to meet the MNI. Only declared taxable income is accepted.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
1. Not Meeting Income for All 3 Years
Many sponsors think meeting income for just the most recent year is enough—it’s not. IRCC checks all 3 years.
2. Incorrect Household Size Calculation
Forgetting to include dependents, a co-signer, or previously sponsored individuals can lead to refusal.
3. Not Managing Time During the Process
The Parent/Grandparent program opens for a short window each year, and demand is extremely high. Missing deadlines or not having income documents ready can cost you a spot.
4. Relying on Future Income
IRCC won’t accept “expected raises” or future income—you must already meet the threshold with past CRA records.
5. Not Filing Taxes on Time
Missing or late tax filings can prevent you from providing the required NOAs.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application
✔️ File taxes on time every year
✔️ Work with a co-signer (spouse/common-law partner) to combine income
✔️ Plan 2–3 years in advance to meet MNI thresholds
✔️ Keep organized records of all income documents
✔️ Consult with an RCIC (Regulated Canadian Immigration Consultant) to avoid errors
How an Immigration Consultant Can Help?
Meeting income requirements can be stressful, especially if your situation is complicated. At Argus Immigration, our licensed consultants:
Calculate your exact household size and required MNI
Review your CRA NOAs and advise on eligibility
Guide you in preparing documents and application forms
Help you avoid common mistakes that lead to refusals
Having expert support can save you time and maximize your chances of bringing your parents or grandparents to Canada successfully.
FAQs
1. Can I still apply if I don’t meet the income requirements?
No, you must meet the MNI for all 3 years. However, you can plan ahead and apply in the future once you qualify.
2. Can my spouse co-sign the sponsorship?
Yes, your spouse or common-law partner can co-sign, and their income will be added to yours.
3. Do I need to show proof of funds like bank savings?
No. Only CRA-assessed income counts toward eligibility. Assets like property or savings are not accepted.
4. How long do I need to financially support my parents after they arrive?
You must sign a 20-year undertaking (10 years in Quebec) to provide financial support and ensure they don’t rely on social assistance.
5. When does IRCC open the PGP sponsorship intake?
It varies each year, usually once in the spring or fall. IRCC uses a lottery system to invite applicants.
Final Thoughts
The income requirement is the most important factor in the Parent/Grandparent Sponsorship Program. Meeting the MNI for 3 consecutive years ensures you’re financially prepared to support your loved ones in Canada. With proper planning, timely tax filing, and guidance from experienced consultants, you can reunite your family without unnecessary delays or rejections.
If you’re unsure whether you meet the requirements, contact Argus Immigration for a free eligibility check today.
