Super Visa
The Super Visa for Canada is an excellent opportunity for parents and grandparents who wish to stay longer with their children and grandchildren in Canada. This visa allows them to reside in Canada for up to 5 consecutive years per visit and is valid for 10 years with multiple entries. It enables you to spend extended periods with your loved ones without the need for frequent renewals. However, specific requirements must be met to obtain a Super Visa.
Duration of Stay with Super Visa
Since June 22, 2023, Super Visa holders can stay in Canada for up to five consecutive years per entry. However, if you applied before this date, the rules are slightly different:
- If you entered Canada before June 22, 2023, you can stay for up to two years or as determined by the border officer. To extend your stay, you can either exit and re-enter Canada (which may grant you a 5-year stay if eligible) or apply for an extension of up to two years.
- If you entered Canada on or after June 22, 2023, you are permitted to stay for up to five years per entry.
Eligibility Requirements for Super Visa
- Host in Canada:
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- Must be your child or grandchild.
- Should be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian.
- Must be at least 18 years old and reside in Canada.
- Should have the minimum necessary income (LICO).
- Must provide an invitation letter with a commitment to financial support and a list of family members to calculate the required income.
- Financial Requirements for Host:
The host must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (LICO). Acceptable proof of income includes:
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- The latest (Notice of Assessment – NOA) or T4/T1 from the (Canada Revenue Agency – CRA).
- Pay stubs for the last 12 months.
- Proof of other income sources (e.g., pension or self-employment income).
- An employment letter stating the job position and salary.
- Bank statements.
- You must be admissible to Canada.
- You must demonstrate that your visit is temporary and that you will leave Canada at the end of your stay.
Proof of Financial Support
The host must have at least the Minimum Necessary Income (LICO), which depends on the number of family members. The 2024 income requirements are as follows:
| Number of Family Members | Minimum Income (CAD) |
| 1 | $29,380 |
| 2 | $36,576 |
| 3 | $44,966 |
| 4 | $54,594 |
| 5 | $61,920 |
| 6 | $69,834 |
| 7 | $77,750 |
| More than 7 | $7,916 per additional member |
Who is Included as a Family Member?
- Child or grandchild who sends the invitation.
- Spouse of the child or grandchild.
- Dependents of the child or grandchild.
- Any relative traveling with you to Canada.
- Anyone financially supported by the host.
Health Insurance for Super Visa
Having valid health insurance is mandatory for obtaining a Super Visa. You can purchase this insurance from a Canadian insurance provider or a foreign insurance company, provided that the foreign insurer is listed under the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) in Canada and regulated by (OSFI).
Requirements for Health Insurance:
- Minimum one-year coverage from the date of entry to Canada.
- Coverage of at least CAD 100,000 for medical expenses, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- Full payment or installments with a down payment (quotations are not accepted).
- Valid for each entry into Canada.
Difference Between Super Visa and Regular Visitor Visa
- Super Visa: Allows up to 5 years of continuous stay per entry with a 10-year validity and multiple entries. Requires one-year health insurance with a minimum coverage of CAD 100,000.
- Regular Visitor Visa: Allows a maximum stay of 6 months per entry, which requires extension for longer stays. Health insurance is not mandatory.
Application Process for Super Visa
- Prepare Required Documents:
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- Invitation letter from a child or grandchild who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Proof of financial support from the host.
- Valid health insurance.
- Medical examination results.
- Identification documents, educational and employment or retirement certificates.
- Police clearance certificate.
- Photos and biometric data.
- Completed application forms for the Super Visa.
- Fee payment receipts.
- Submit the Application Online:
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- Create an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
- Complete the online form and upload all documents.
- Pay the application fee using a credit card.
- Note: You may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional information.
Super Visa Fees
- Application processing fee starts at CAD 100.
- If biometric data is required, an additional CAD 85 per person is needed.
- Medical examination and health insurance costs are also applicable. Medical exams typically range from CAD 100 to CAD 200, depending on age and health condition.
Entering Canada with a Super Visa
- Identity verification is conducted upon entry.
- Possessing a Super Visa does not guarantee entry; your identity must be fully verified.
- You may be asked to provide a copy of your health insurance.
- A border officer will stamp your passport and specify the duration of your stay (up to 5 years).
- You must prove that you do not intend to stay permanently and will leave Canada after your permitted stay.
→ The Super Visa is an ideal opportunity for parents and grandparents who wish to spend more time with their loved ones in Canada. Ensuring compliance with all requirements, including financial support, valid health insurance, and proof of ties to your home country, is crucial for a successful application.
If you need further assistance or guidance with your Super Visa application, our team of professional consultants is here to help. Contact us today to make your Super Visa journey as smooth and stress-free as possible.