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.
Super Visa
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
Requirements
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
- Apply well in advance to account for any additional document requests
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
Start your journey
Support
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!
FAQ
Got questions? We’re on it.
Can siblings or grandchildren be included?
No, only parents/grandparents (and spouse/common-law partner).
Can I extend my stay beyond 2 years?
No, you must leave Canada and may reapply if eligible.
Is there an age limit?
No, age does not restrict eligibility.
Can I apply for permanent residence while on a Super Visa?
You may apply under other programs, but the Super Visa does not grant special status for PR.