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Super Visa
Table of Contents
If you’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident looking to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada for an extended stay, the Super Visa is the perfect solution. This guide covers everything you need to know—its benefits, eligibility, application process, and more
What is a Super Visa?
The Super Visa is a unique visa intended for parents and grandparents of permanent residents or citizens of Canada. It provides, in contrast to a standard visiting visa:
- Longer Stays – Up to 5 years per visit
- Multiple Entries – Valid for up to 10 years
- Fewer Renewals – No need for frequent reapplications
This visa allows families to spend quality time together without the stress of short-term visa limitations.
Super Visa vs. Visitor Visa: Key Differences
Feature | Super Visa | Visitor Visa |
Stay Duration | Up to 5 years per visit | Up to 6 months per visit |
Validity | 10 years, multiple entries | Typically 6 months, single entry |
Medical Insurance | Required (min. 1 year) | Not required |
Financial Proof | The host must meet the LICO income threshold | Less strict requirements |
The Super Visa is ideal for families seeking long-term visits without constant visa renewals.
Who Can Apply? Super Visa Eligibility Criteria
To qualify, applicants must meet these requirements:
- Proof of Relationship
A Canadian citizen or permanent resident must be your parent or grandparent. Marriage or birth certificates are examples of documents that are used as evidence.
- Letter of Invitation
A signed invitation letter from your child or grandchild in Canada must include:
- Commitment to financially support your stay
- Proof of Canadian citizenship or residency
- List of household members
- Proof of Financial Support
Your host must meet the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) requirements, proving they can support you financially during your visit.
- Mandatory Medical Insurance
You must obtain Canadian health insurance covering:
- Minimum $100,000 in coverage
- Valid for at least 1 year
- Medical Examination
A medical exam by an IRCC-approved physician is required to ensure admissibility
Step-by-Step Super Visa Application Process
- Step 1: Gather Documents – Proof of relationship, financial support, invitation letter, medical insurance, and medical exam results.
- Step 2: Fill Out the Application (IMM 5257) – Submit with all required documents.
- Step 3: Pay Fees – Includes visa processing and biometrics fees (if applicable).
- Step 4: Submit the Application – Online or at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
- Step 5: Processing & Approval – Processing takes a few weeks to a few months, depending on individual cases.
FAQs: Frequently Asked Questions
You may stay in Canada for upto 5 years on a single entry, exit the country and re-enter Canada and stay for another 5 years as long as your visa and passports, both are valid.
No, a Super Visa does not permit employment in Canada. It is strictly for visiting family.
It varies but typically takes a few weeks to a few months. We work to ensure a smooth and quick process.
A Super Visa allows stays of up to 5 years per visit, while a visitor visa permits stays of only 6 months.
