Canada Super Visa
For parents and grandparents who want to spend real time with their family in Canada.
Start Your Free Assessment to see how to get started:
What Is a Super Visa
The Super Visa is a multiple-entry visa designed specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. It allows eligible visitors to stay in Canada for up to five years per entry — significantly longer than the six months typically granted under a standard visitor visa.
The Super Visa can be valid for up to ten years, meaning parents and grandparents can visit multiple times over an extended period without having to apply for a new visa each time. It is one of the most practical and generous options available for families who want to spend meaningful time together in Canada.
The Super Visa is separate from the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship program. It does not lead to permanent residence, but it offers a faster and more accessible path to extended visits while families explore longer-term immigration options.
Super Visa vs Regular Visitor Visa
How the Super Visa compares to a regular visitor visa.
Regular Visitor Visa (TRV)
Stay of up to 6 months per entry. Multiple entry available. Open to all eligible foreign nationals. No income requirement for the Canadian host. No medical insurance requirement from IRCC.
Super Visa
Stay of up to 5 years per entry. Multiple entry, valid up to 10 years. Only for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or PRs. Canadian child or grandchild must meet income requirements. Canadian medical insurance required.
Eligibility
Applicant Requirements: The parent or grandparent applying for the Super Visa must meet the following requirements.
1. Relationship to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. You must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
2. Valid travel document. You must hold a valid passport or accepted travel document.
3. Canadian medical insurance. You must have valid Canadian medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company, with a minimum coverage of $100,000, valid for at least one year from the date of entry.
4. No inadmissibility. You must not be inadmissible to Canada on criminal, medical, security, or other grounds.
5. Temporary intent. You must satisfy an officer that you intend to leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.
Canadian Child Requirements:The Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is inviting the parent or grandparent must also meet requirements.
1. Minimum income threshold. The Canadian host must meet the minimum necessary income level set by IRCC, based on family size. A letter from the host confirming their income and commitment to financially support the visitor is required.
2. Written invitation letter. The Canadian host must provide a signed letter of invitation confirming they will support the visitor during their stay in Canada.
Income thresholds change annually
The minimum income requirement for the Canadian host is updated by IRCC each year. It is important to confirm the current threshold at the time of application. The MyVisa Team can advise you on the current requirements and whether your host qualifies.
The Application Process
How the Super Visa application works.
Step 1: Confirm eligibility. Confirm that both the applicant and the Canadian host meet the Super Visa requirements, including the income threshold and insurance requirement.
Step 2: Obtain medical insurance. Purchase qualifying Canadian medical insurance before submitting the application. The policy must meet IRCC's minimum coverage and validity requirements.
Step 3: Gather supporting documents. Collect proof of the family relationship, the host's income documentation, the invitation letter, and all other required supporting materials.
Step 4: Submit the application. Apply online through IRCC's portal. Biometrics may be required depending on the applicant's country of citizenship.
Step 5: Wait for a decision. Processing times vary. The MyVisa Team can advise on current processing times and flag any issues that arise while the application is pending.
Common Challenges
Income Documentation
The host's income must be clearly documented and meet the current threshold. Incomplete or unclear financial evidence is a common reason for delays and refusals.
Medical insurance issues
Policies that do not meet IRCC's minimum requirements, in coverage amount, duration, or provider eligibility, can result in a refusal.
Temporary intent concerns
Officers still assess whether the applicant intends to return home after their visit. Prior immigration history, ties to the home country, and personal circumstances all factor into this assessment.
Prior refusals
A previous refusal, whether for a Super Visa or any other Canadian visa, needs to be addressed carefully in a new application to avoid the same outcome.
Ready to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada?
Start with a free assessment. We will review your family's situation and tell you whether the Super Visa is the right option, what you need to prepare, and how to put together the strongest possible application.
5000 Yonge St., Suite 1901 Toronto, Ontario, Canada M2N 7E9
Info@myvisa.law