Introduction
Bringing your parents to Canada strengthens family bonds and provides priceless memories. The Parent and Grandparent Super Visa lets eligible applicants stay in Canada for up to five years per entry, with multiple entries over 10 years. In this guide, you’ll learn how to navigate the family sponsorship process, meet Super Visa requirements, secure Super Visa insurance, and streamline your application for faster approval.
What is the Canada Super Visa?
The Canada Super Visa is a special multiple-entry visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time, without renewing their status. Unlike a standard visitor visa, which limits stays to six months per visit, the Super Visa grants extended visits, facilitating quality time together.
- Stays of up to 5 years per entry
- Multiple entries valid for up to 10 years
- Eliminates frequent visa renewals
This program is ideal if you want your loved ones close for special occasions, family milestones, or long-term care. (canada.ca, canada.ca)
Super Visa requirements
To qualify, you must meet all eligibility criteria as outlined by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Key requirements include:
- Your host (child or grandchild) must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian and at least 18 years old
- Host meets minimum necessary income (see table below)
- Host provides a letter of invitation with a promise of financial support
- You complete an immigration medical exam
- You prove intent to leave Canada at the end of your stay
Ensure your host checks Super Visa requirements to verify eligibility (canada.ca, ircc.canada.ca)
Minimum Necessary Income
| Family Size | Minimum Income (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | 29,380 |
| 2 | 36,576 |
| 3 | 44,966 |
| 4 | 54,594 |
| 5 | 61,920 |
| 6 | 69,834 |
| 7 | 77,750 |
| +1 member | +7,916 each |
Hosts must document income via Notice of Assessment, T4/T1 forms, or employment letters. (canada.ca, ircc.canada.ca)
How to apply for Super Visa
Follow these steps for a smooth application:
- Gather documents: Letter of invitation, proof of income, medical exam results, valid passport
- Purchase insurance: Buy private health coverage with at least $100,000 emergency medical protection for one year
- Complete medical exam: Schedule with an IRCC-approved panel physician
- Create an IRCC Portal account: Get an invite code and sign in
- Submit online: Upload all documents, pay $100 CAD fee
- Biometrics: Provide fingerprints and photo if required
- Wait for decision: Check processing times
Applying online speeds up processing and simplifies tracking. (canada.ca, canada.ca)
Visitor Visa vs Super Visa (Comparison)
Use this table to compare key features:
| Feature | Visitor Visa | Super Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Maximum Stay per Entry | 6 months | 5 years |
| Multiple Entries | Yes | Yes |
| Medical Exam | Sometimes required | Mandatory |
| Insurance Requirement | No | Yes – $100,000 emergency coverage |
| Processing Time | 1–3 months | 4–6 months |
| Cost | $100 CAD | $100 CAD |
Choose the Super Visa for longer stays and fewer renewals, especially if parents need extended care. (canada.ca, ircc.canada.ca)
Super Visa insurance requirements
Securing proper insurance is crucial:
- Must be valid for at least one year from entry date
- Minimum $100,000 CAD in emergency coverage
- Purchased from Canadian or approved foreign providers
IRCC now accepts policies from outside Canada, making it easier to compare and save. (canada.ca, ircc.canada.ca)
Super Visa processing time
Processing varies by visa office but generally takes:
- Outside Canada/USA: 4–6 months
- Add 3–4 months for mail if applying through an embassy
- Biometric requests can add 1–2 weeks
Times are historical, based on processing 80% of applications. Respond promptly to any IRCC requests to avoid delays. (canada.ca, ircc.canada.ca)
Single-Entry vs Multi-Entry Super Visa
Most applicants receive a multi-entry visa for up to 10 years. Single-entry visas remain valid only until passport expiry. Opt for multi-entry to minimize reapplication.
Super Visa extensions & renewals
If you need to stay longer:
- Apply for a visitor record at least 30 days before status expiry
- Provide updated medical exam and proof of ongoing support
Extensions can add up to 2 years per application, offering flexibility.
Costs and fees
- Application fee: $100 CAD
- Biometrics fee: $85 CAD per person
- Medical exam: $100–$300 CAD (varies by country)
- Insurance premium: $600–$1,200 CAD/year
Factor these into your budget to avoid surprises.
Top tips for Super Visa approval
- Submit a complete application: missing documents cause refusals
- Demonstrate strong ties to your home country
- Provide thorough proof of host’s income
- Buy insurance early and provide policy receipt
- Respond to IRCC queries within 10 days
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can I include dependants on the Super Visa application?
A: No. Dependants must apply separately for a visitor visa.
Q: Can my parents work in Canada on a Super Visa?
A: No, but they may apply for a work permit separately.
Q: What happens if my parents become inadmissible?
A: IRCC may refuse the visa. Always disclose any criminal or medical issues upfront.
Q: How early should we apply before planned travel?
A: At least 6 months in advance to accommodate processing and potential delays.
Conclusion
Securing a Super Visa for your parents is a practical way to keep family close for extended periods. By following this 2025 guide, researching each requirement, and preparing a thorough, complete application, you’ll improve your chances of approval and enjoy memorable family visits without interruption.
