Super Visa – For Parents and Grandparents
Canada prioritizes family reunification. The Parent and Grandparent Super Visa is a special type of visa for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, allowing extended visits of up to two years per entry.
Unlike a standard visitor visa, the Super Visa allows multiple entries and longer stays, provided all eligibility criteria are met, including medical, financial, and insurance requirements.
Why Apply for a Super Visa?
- Extended stays up to 2 years per visit
- Multiple entries over a 10-year period
- Family reunification for parents and grandparents
- Opportunity to visit children or grandchildren without frequent visa renewals
Note: The Super Visa does not allow work or full-time study in Canada.
Eligibility Requirements
For the Applicant (Parent or Grandparent)
- Must be a biological, adoptive, or step-parent/grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- May include spouse or common-law partner in the application.
- Must be admissible to Canada (no criminal record, security concerns, or other inadmissibility issues).
- Must undergo a medical examination by a panel physician approved by IRCC.
For the Sponsor (Child or Grandchild in Canada)
- Must be 18 years or older.
- Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident residing in Canada.
- Must meet the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) to demonstrate financial ability to support the visiting parent/grandparent.
- Must provide a letter of invitation including:
- Sponsor and applicant details
- Duration and purpose of stay
- Financial support commitment
- List of accompanying visitors
Special cases: Divorced or separated parents/grandparents can apply separately with their own invitation and documents.
Medical Insurance Requirements
Applicants must have Canadian medical insurance valid for at least 1 year with a minimum coverage of $100,000 CAD.
Coverage must include:
- Hospitalization and doctor visits
- Diagnostic tests and procedures
- Repatriation costs in case of serious illness or death
Approved Canadian insurance providers include: Manulife, Sun Life, Blue Cross, Allianz, and Travel Guard Canada. Policies purchased outside Canada are not accepted.
Financial Requirements – Low Income Cut-Off (LICO)
The sponsor must meet the minimum income threshold based on family size:
- 1 person: $24,600
- 2 persons: $30,625
- 3 persons: $37,650
- 4 persons: $45,712
- 5 persons: $51,846
- 6 persons: $58,473
- 7 or more persons: $65,101 + $6,628 per additional person
Co-signers (spouse of sponsor) can combine income if LICO is not met individually.
How to Apply – Step by Step
- Check Eligibility: Ensure both applicant and sponsor meet all criteria.
- Gather Documents: Passport, birth certificates, medical exam, proof of relationship, insurance, LICO proof, invitation letter, and application forms.
- Choose Application Method: Online (faster) or paper (mail to the visa office).
- Complete Forms: IMM5257 (Visitor Visa), IMM5707 (Family Information), IMM5476 (Representative), and others as required.
- Pay Fees: Submit payment online or include it with paper application.
- Submit Application: Online via IRCC portal or by mail.
- Medical Examination: Conducted after application submission, results sent to IRCC.
- Biometrics: If required, provide fingerprints and photo at designated center.
- Track Application: Use file number from acknowledgement letter to monitor status.
- Decision: Approved applicants receive Super Visa; refusals include reasons and guidance.
Processing Time
- Typical processing time: approximately 8 weeks
- Varies based on visa office and completeness of application
Key Considerations
- Cannot work or enroll in full-time studies on a Super Visa
- Maximum stay per entry: 2 years
- Can reapply for another Super Visa after leaving Canada
- Strong ties to home country improve approval chances
How We Can Help
At Shreehari Immigration, we guide you through every stage of your Super Visa application:
- Eligibility assessment for applicant and sponsor
- Document preparation and LICO calculation
- Medical insurance advice and application submission
- Step-by-step guidance for online or paper applications
Free Eligibility Assessment – Check if you qualify today!
Frequently Asked Questions
No, only parents/grandparents (and spouse/common-law partner).
No, you must leave Canada and may reapply if eligible.
No, age does not restrict eligibility.
You may apply under other programs, but the Super Visa does not grant special status for PR.
Take the Next Step
Book Your Consultation Today – Personalized guidance from a licensed Canadian immigration consultant.
Get Your Free Eligibility Assessment – Ensure you meet all Super Visa requirements.