As U.S. Immigration Policy Takes a Darker Turn, Canada and New Zealand Open Doors to Families and Students

Exciting developments for immigrants seeking long-term opportunities in North America and Oceania.

Canada has officially reopened its Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), offering up to 10,000 sponsorship invitations starting July 28, 2025.

This program allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to sponsor their parents or grandparents for permanent residency, strengthening family reunification efforts.

However, this year’s intake is limited to those who submitted interest forms in 2020, so new applicants must wait or consider the Super Visa, which permits extended stays of up to five years per visit.

Meanwhile, in New Zealand, the government is expanding immigration pathways for international students.

Updates to the student visa policy now allow eligible students to work up to 25 hours per week during the academic year.

Visa processing has been streamlined, and post-study work rights increased for graduates in high-demand fields such as healthcare, engineering, and IT.

Students pursuing PhDs or research-based Master’s degrees may work unlimited hours and access faster residency through the Green List.

Both countries signal a strong commitment to family reunification and skilled migration—offering a golden window to build a future abroad.