What is the super visa in Canada?
The Canadian super visa is a long-term visitor visa designed specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Unlike a regular visitor visa, which usually allows stays of up to six months, a super visa allows stays of up to five years at a time and can remain valid for up to ten years.
The super visa does not lead to permanent residence. However, it offers flexibility and peace of mind for families who want extended visits without repeated applications.
Who can apply for a Canadian super visa?
When asking who can apply for a super visa, the answer is quite specific. Only parents and grandparents of eligible Canadians may apply. Other relatives, such as siblings, aunts, uncles, or cousins, do not qualify under this program.
To be eligible, the applicant must be:
- A parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Living outside Canada at the time of application
- Admissible to Canada under immigration rules
What are the requirements for a super visa to Canada?
Many families ask who qualifies for a super visa to Canada, especially when comparing it to other visitor options. Qualification depends on both the applicant and their host in Canada.
Relationship to a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident
The applicant must provide proof of their relationship to their child or grandchild in Canada. Common documents include birth certificates, baptism records, or other official documents that clearly show family connections.
The host in Canada must be either:
- A Canadian citizen, or
- A permanent resident of Canada
Temporary residents, such as international students or work permit holders, cannot sponsor a super visa.
Financial Requirements for the Host
One of the most important eligibility factors is financial support. The Canadian host must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI). This income requirement is based on family size and is updated annually by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Acceptable proof of income may include:
- Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency
- Employment letters and recent pay stubs
- Proof of self-employment income
Meeting the income requirement reassures the government that the visiting parent or grandparent will be financially supported during their stay.
Additional Canadian Super Visa Eligibility Requirements
When reviewing what makes someone eligible for a Canadian super visa, immigration officers look beyond relationship and income alone. Several additional eligibility requirements must be met.
Mandatory Medical Insurance
Applicants must purchase private medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company. The policy must:
- Be valid for at least one year
- Provide a minimum of $100,000 in coverage
- Cover health care, hospitalization, and repatriation
Proof of paid insurance is required at the time of application. This is a key difference from a regular visitor visa.
Immigration Medical Examination
Super visa applicants must complete an immigration medical exam with an IRCC-authorized panel physician. This exam ensures the applicant does not pose a public health or safety risk and helps assess admissibility.
At Immigration Physician Ottawa, we regularly conduct super visa medical exams and guide families through the process so results are submitted accurately and without delay.
Invitation Letter from the Host
The Canadian child or grandchild must provide a signed invitation letter that includes:
- A promise of financial support
- A list of people in the household
- Proof of citizenship or permanent residence
This letter helps confirm the purpose of travel and the support arrangements during the visit.
How the Super Visa Compares to a Regular Visitor Visa
Understanding the difference between a super visa and a regular visitor visa helps families choose the right option.
A regular visitor visa typically allows stays of up to six months and does not require proof of medical insurance or meeting income thresholds. However, it may require extensions for longer visits.
The super visa allows much longer stays per visit and provides stability for families who want extended time together. While the requirements are more detailed, the benefits are significant for eligible families.
Application Process
The super visa application is submitted online through IRCC. Applicants must provide identity documents, proof of relationship, medical insurance details, financial evidence, and medical exam results when requested.
Processing times vary depending on the applicant’s country of residence and individual circumstances. Preparing documents carefully and ensuring all requirements are met can help avoid delays.
Final Thoughts on Super Visa Eligibility
The Canadian super visa is an excellent option for families who meet the eligibility criteria and want longer visits with parents or grandparents. Knowing who qualifies for a super visa to Canada, and what makes someone eligible for a Canadian super visa, can help families plan with confidence.
If you are preparing a super visa application and require a medical examination, Immigration Physician Ottawa is here to support you. Our clinic works closely with families to ensure immigration medical exams are completed smoothly and submitted correctly, helping reduce stress during the application process.
