Canada is known for its inclusive and family-oriented immigration policies. Among the many programs designed to reunite families, the Super Visa stands out as a special option for Canadian citizens and permanent residents who wish to bring their parents and grandparents to stay with them in Canada for extended periods. Unlike regular visitor visas, the Super Visa allows multiple entries over a 10-year period and grants stays of up to 5 consecutive years at a time without the need to renew status within Canada. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to successfully apply for Canada’s Super Visa for parents and grandparents—from eligibility criteria and documentation to application steps, costs, and tips for a smoother process.
What Is the Super Visa?
The Super Visa is a long-term visitor visa granted to the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. It allows multiple entries into Canada for up to 10 years. The major advantage is that it permits each visit to last up to 5 years, significantly longer than the standard 6-month visitor visa.
This visa is not the same as family reunification permanent residence sponsorship, which can take years due to processing times and quotas. The Super Visa provides a quicker alternative for those wanting to reunite with loved ones on a temporary but extended basis.
Who Can Apply?
Only parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents are eligible to apply for a Super Visa. Spouses or common-law partners of the applicant can also be included in the same application.
Key Points on Eligibility:
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The applicant must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
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The applicant must be admissible to Canada.
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The applicant must pass a medical examination.
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The applicant must have adequate medical insurance from a Canadian insurance provider.
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The host child or grandchild must meet a minimum income threshold (based on the Low-Income Cut-Off or LICO).
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The applicant must prove their visit is temporary and that they will leave Canada at the end of the approved stay.
Eligibility Requirements in Detail
1. Relationship Proof
The applicant must prove they are the biological or adoptive parent or grandparent of the inviting Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Acceptable documents include:
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Birth certificates
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Adoption papers
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Legal custody documents (if applicable)
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Family registers
2. Letter of Invitation
The Canadian child or grandchild must write a letter of invitation, which should include:
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A promise of financial support
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Proof of family relationship
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Details about the visitor’s stay
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A copy of the inviter’s Canadian citizenship or permanent resident status
3. Income Requirement (LICO)
The inviting person must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) based on family size. This is crucial to show they can financially support the visiting parent or grandparent during their stay.
Proof of income can include:
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Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the Canada Revenue Agency
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T4 or T1 tax documents
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Pay stubs
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Employment letter with salary details
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Bank statements
4. Medical Insurance Requirement
Super Visa applicants must show they have Canadian medical insurance that:
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Is valid for at least 1 year
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Covers healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation
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Provides at least CAD $100,000 in coverage
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Must be purchased from a Canadian insurance provider
Applicants should get the insurance before applying, though some insurance companies offer refundable policies in case of visa refusal.
5. Medical Exam
A medical examination is required to ensure that the applicant is not a health risk. Instructions will be sent after applying, and a designated panel physician must perform the exam.
6. Ties to Home Country
Applicants must convince immigration officials that they will return to their home country. This can be demonstrated through:
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Family and property ties in their home country
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Return travel tickets
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Financial assets or employment back home
Step-by-Step Guide to Apply for a Super Visa
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Start by collecting all necessary documents:
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Completed [IMM 5257] Application for Temporary Resident Visa
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Letter of invitation from child/grandchild
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Proof of income of the inviting host
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Proof of parental relationship
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Copy of host’s citizenship or PR documents
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Proof of medical insurance (12 months minimum, CAD $100,000 coverage)
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Passport with at least 6 months validity
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Two passport-sized photos
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Proof of ties to home country
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Any required translations
Step 2: Get Medical Insurance
Before applying, purchase Canadian health insurance for at least one year. Compare insurance providers for coverage and refunds in case of visa rejection.
Step 3: Apply Online or on Paper
Super Visa applications can be submitted:
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On paper at the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) if online submission is not possible
Complete the online forms, upload documents, pay fees, and submit the application. Be sure all uploaded documents are clear and complete.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
Super Visa application fees include:
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CAD $100 visa processing fee
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Biometrics fee (CAD $85 for individuals or CAD $170 for a family)
Pay these online and keep receipts for your records.
Step 5: Provide Biometrics
After submission, the applicant will be asked to visit a Visa Application Centre (VAC) to give fingerprints and a photo. Applicants usually have 30 days to complete this step.
Step 6: Wait for Processing
Processing times vary by country but typically range from 4 to 12 weeks. Processing includes:
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Document review
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Background checks
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Medical exam results
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Assessment of admissibility
Applicants may be asked to attend an interview.
Step 7: Receive the Visa
If approved, the applicant’s passport will be returned with the Super Visa counterfoil inserted. The visa may include multiple entries and allow stays of up to 5 years per entry.
After Arrival in Canada
Once the Super Visa holder arrives in Canada, they must:
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Carry the same insurance coverage used in the application
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Respect the allowed stay duration
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Leave before the authorized stay expires, or apply for an extension before that date
Failure to comply with these conditions may affect future entries.
Super Visa vs. Parent Sponsorship
While both allow parents and grandparents to live with their children in Canada, there are major differences:
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| Feature | Super Visa | Parent Sponsorship |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary Residence | Permanent Residence |
| Processing Time | Few weeks to months | Several years |
| Duration | 5 years per stay (renewable) | Indefinite |
| Medical Insurance | Mandatory | Not required at application |
| Income Requirement | Based on LICO | Based on MNI over 3 years |
| Application Cap | No annual cap | Limited intake per year |
The Super Visa is best for families wanting to reunite quickly or temporarily. Parent sponsorship is a longer-term option but can take years to process.
Common Reasons for Refusal
Understanding why some applications are denied helps in preparing a stronger one. Common refusal reasons include:
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Insufficient ties to home country
Applicants must show a strong reason to return home (e.g., property, employment, family). -
Inadequate financial support
If the host’s income doesn’t meet LICO or documents are unclear, the visa may be denied. -
Lack of proper medical insurance
Insurance that doesn’t meet the coverage requirement will result in refusal. -
Inadmissibility
Due to criminal background or medical issues that pose a public health risk. -
Incomplete application
Missing documents or forms can delay or ruin your application.
Tips for a Successful Super Visa Application
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Ensure all documents are translated if not in English or French.
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Submit clear, scanned copies of documents—blurry or cropped documents may lead to refusal.
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Do not purchase non-refundable tickets until your visa is approved.
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Consult a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer if your case is complex.
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Prepare a cover letter that outlines the purpose of the visit and how you meet all criteria.
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Choose insurance with refund policies in case of application denial.
Renewal and Extensions
If the 5-year period is about to expire, the visa holder can apply for an extension from within Canada. Applications for extension should be submitted at least 30 days before the current authorized stay ends.
Conclusion
Canada’s Super Visa program offers a generous and family-friendly route for citizens and permanent residents to reunite with their parents and grandparents. Its extended stay duration, multi-entry allowance, and straightforward eligibility make it a practical alternative to permanent sponsorship. However, to ensure success, applicants must pay attention to every detail—especially regarding income, insurance, and evidence of ties to the home country.
By carefully preparing your documentation and following the steps outlined in this guide, you’ll increase your chances of obtaining a Super Visa and enjoying quality time with your loved ones in Canada. Whether you are planning a short visit or a long, cherished stay, the Super Visa can open the door to family togetherness, comfort, and peace of mind.
