Super Visa | Canada Visa Center

Canada Super Visa: Complete Information Guide

The Super Visa is a special long-term visa offered by the Canadian government that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to enjoy extended visits in Canada. Unlike a regular visitor visa that permits stays up to six months, the Super Visa lets eligible applicants stay for up to 5 years per visit and offers multiple-entry validity of up to 10 years.

This visa is an ideal choice for families wanting to spend more quality time together without the hassle of frequent reapplications. It’s perfect for helping with grandchildren, attending important family events, or simply enjoying longer visits with loved ones in Canada.

To qualify, applicants must meet several requirements, including:

Being the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Submitting a letter of invitation from their child or grandchild, which includes a commitment of financial support.
Providing proof that the host meets the government’s minimum income threshold (LICO).
Purchasing private medical insurance from a Canadian insurer with at least $100,000 coverage for a minimum of one year.
Completing an immigration medical exam, if required.
Demonstrating strong ties to their home country and intent to return after their visit.

Note that the Super Visa does not permit work or study in Canada. It simply offers a flexible, longer-term option for family visits without the need for frequent visa renewals.

This program is distinct from the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program, which is designed for permanent immigration. The Super Visa is strictly for temporary, long-term stays.

With generally faster processing times and less competition than sponsorship routes, the Super Visa provides a practical and family-friendly way to maintain close ties across borders.

Super Visa Program

The Super Visa is designed specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It enables longer visits compared to a regular visitor visa. Please note, it is not available to other relatives such as siblings or uncles.

Benefits of the Super Visa

Extended Stay: Remain in Canada for up to 5 years per visit without needing frequent visa renewals.
Multiple Entries: Valid for up to 10 years, allowing multiple trips during this period.
Family Reunification: Spend meaningful, extended time with your children and grandchildren in Canada.
Convenience: No need to reapply for a new visa for every visit, reducing paperwork and delays.
Medical Coverage: One-year minimum private health insurance coverage ensures peace of mind during your stay.
Less Frequent Travel: Unlike other visas, you aren’t required to leave and re-enter Canada repeatedly.

Important Considerations & Warnings

Medical Insurance: Applicants must have valid Canadian medical insurance for at least one year; lack of coverage can lead to application refusal.
Financial Support: Your Canadian child or grandchild must meet the minimum income threshold (LICO), or your application may be denied.
Stay Duration: Though the visa permits up to 5 years per visit, border officers may impose shorter stays based on individual circumstances.
Entry Decision: Final admission to Canada is determined by border officers. Ensure all documentation is accurate and complete.
Re-entry Requirements: For multiple entries, you must continue to meet eligibility and demonstrate ties to your home country.
No Work or Study: The Super Visa does not authorize employment or study. Violations may result in removal.

Super Visa Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for a Super Visa, applicants must provide the following:

Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your stay in Canada.
Completed Application Forms (IMM 5257 & IMM 5645): These forms are required to process your Super Visa application.
Letter of Invitation: A letter from your child or grandchild in Canada, including their status and contact information.
Proof of Relationship: Documents such as birth certificates to verify your family connection.
Proof of Financial Support: Your host must meet the minimum income threshold (LICO) and provide supporting documents, such as Notices of Assessment or pay stubs.
Medical Insurance: Coverage from a Canadian insurance provider valid for at least one year, with a minimum coverage of $100,000.
Medical Examination: Completion of an immigration medical exam, as required.
Proof of Ties to Home Country: Documentation showing your intention to return after your visit, such as employment, property ownership, or family ties.
Passport-Sized Photos: Recent photos meeting Canada’s official photo specifications.
Visa Fee Receipt: Confirmation of payment for the visa application fee.