There are many things to consider when planning to sponsor parents.  Do they want to come?  Where will they live?  What will they do when they’re here?  How will they be supported?  Should they just come for visits?  Will they like it here?

Making these decisions more difficult is the long processing times.  Currently, the first phase of the process (sponsorship evaluation) takes 25 months.   After that, the permanent resident processing at the visa office can add up to a year or even much more.  

If you do decide to proceed, you will see in the forms that you are promising to be a support for your parents for 10 years after they arrive.  Among your documents, you will have to demonstrate you have the income available to support them.

If you wish to learn more about this program, visit Sponsoring your Family: Eligible Relatives.

A Calgary site has gathered much useful information for immigrant seniors and their families-see Bringing a Parent to Canada.  Although based in another province, we recommend you visit this site to gather valuable advice related to sponsoring your parents and assisting them to settle after they arrive.