Temporary Residence
Super Visa
A long-validity multiple-entry visa for parents and grandparents of Canadians.
Overview
The Super Visa is a multiple-entry temporary resident visa designed specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, allowing longer stays than a standard visitor visa.
It depends on an invitation and financial undertaking from the host child or grandchild in Canada, along with private medical insurance that meets a minimum coverage standard.
It is a visa, not permanent residence — it's a route to spend extended time with family while a permanent option, if wanted, is considered separately.
Who may consider this: Parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents who want to visit for extended periods.
Eligibility Considerations
- A parent or grandparent relationship to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident host
- A written invitation letter from the host, including their commitment to provide financial support
- The host's income meeting the applicable minimum income threshold
- Private medical insurance from an approved provider meeting the minimum coverage amount
- A medical exam, where required
- No criminal or medical inadmissibility concerns
How It Works
Invitation & Income Review
We review the host's income documentation against the current threshold requirement.
Medical Insurance
We confirm what the insurance policy needs to cover before you purchase it, to avoid a mismatch at submission.
Medical Exam
We coordinate the timing of any required medical exam with an approved panel physician.
Application Preparation
Forms, the invitation letter, and supporting evidence are compiled into a complete package.
Submission
The application is submitted along with biometrics where required.
Government Processing
IRCC processes the application; timelines vary by visa office.
Visa Issuance & Travel
Once approved, the Super Visa is placed in the applicant's passport for travel planning.
Documents You May Need
Document requirements vary by applicant and pathway — not every applicant needs every item below. We confirm your specific list during an assessment.
- Invitation letter from the host in Canada
- Proof of relationship (birth certificates showing the parent/grandparent link)
- Host's proof of income (Notice of Assessment, employment letter)
- Private medical insurance confirmation meeting minimum coverage
- Valid passport and photos
- Medical exam results, where required
Common Issues to Watch For
These are presented to help you prepare, not to cause concern — most are avoidable with careful preparation.
- Host income documentation that doesn't clearly meet the threshold
- Insurance policies that don't meet the minimum coverage amount or duration
- Incomplete or inconsistent relationship evidence
- Delays caused by purchasing insurance before confirming the correct coverage requirements
How We Help
- Assess the host's income against current requirements before you apply
- Advise on what the medical insurance policy must include
- Prepare a complete, well-organized invitation and supporting package
- Track the application and respond to any requests from IRCC
Frequently Asked Questions
How long can a visit last on a Super Visa?+
The Super Visa allows for extended stays per visit, longer than a standard visitor visa, for a validity period set at approval. Current limits should be confirmed with us before travel.
Does the host need a minimum income?+
Yes, the host must meet a minimum income threshold that varies with family size, based on current published figures.
Can the Super Visa lead to permanent residence?+
Not on its own. Parents and grandparents wanting to immigrate permanently would generally look at the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship program separately.
What insurance is required?+
Private medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company, covering at least the minimum amount currently set by IRCC, valid for at least one year from entry.
The information on this website is provided for general guidance only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Immigration policies, fees, processing times, and eligibility requirements change frequently. Please verify current requirements with official government sources or a qualified immigration professional before making decisions.