Super Visa for Parents and Grandparents
The Canada Super Visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit Canada for extended periods. Unlike a regular visitor visa, which typically allows a stay of up to 6 months, the Super Visa enables eligible parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to 2 years at a time, with multiple entries allowed over a period of up to 10 years.
Key Features of the Super Visa
- Extended Stay: Stay in Canada for up to 2 years per visit without the need to renew your visa status.
- Multiple-Entry Visa: The Super Visa is a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 10 years, allowing you to visit Canada multiple times during its validity period.
- Medical Insurance Requirement: You must have private medical insurance from a Canadian insurance provider for at least 1 year.
- Quicker Processing: The Super Visa typically has a faster processing time than standard visitor visas.
- Eligibility for Parents and Grandparents: The visa is exclusively available to the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Eligibility Requirements for the Super Visa
To apply for the Canada Super Visa, you must meet specific eligibility criteria, including providing proof of family ties in Canada, financial support, and medical insurance.
- Relationship to a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident
You must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Letter of Invitation
You will need a letter of invitation from your child or grandchild who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. This letter must include:
- A promise of financial support for your stay.
- Details about your relationship to the inviter.
- A copy of your child or grandchild's proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residency (e.g., passport or PR card).
- Proof of Financial Support (Minimum Income Threshold)
Your child or grandchild must meet a minimum income threshold to demonstrate that they can financially support you during your stay in Canada. The required income is based on the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) and varies based on the size of the household.
Here is the minimum necessary income (LICO) for 2024:
| Size of Family Unit | Minimum Gross Income (LICO) |
|---|---|
| 1 person (your child/grandchild) | CAD 27,514 |
| 2 persons | CAD 34,254 |
| 3 persons | CAD 42,100 |
| 4 persons | CAD 51,128 |
| 5 persons | CAD 57,989 |
| 6 persons | CAD 65,401 |
| 7 persons | CAD 72,814 |
| For each additional person | CAD 7,412 |
- Medical Insurance from a Canadian Provider
You must have valid medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company that:
- Is valid for at least 1 year from the date of entry into Canada.
- Covers at least CAD 100,000 in medical expenses.
- Includes proof that the insurance has been paid in full (not a payment plan).
- Immigration Medical Exam
You must undergo an immigration medical examination to demonstrate that you meet Canada's health requirements. This exam must be performed by a doctor approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
- Strong Ties to Your Home Country
You must prove that you will return to your home country after your visit to Canada. This can include ties such as family, property, or employment.
Required Documents for the Canada Super Visa
When applying for the Canada Super Visa, you must provide several supporting documents to ensure your application is successful:
- Letter of Invitation:
- From your child or grandchild, confirming their financial support for your stay in Canada.
- Proof of Relationship:
- Documents proving your relationship with your child or grandchild, such as birth certificates or other relevant documents.
- Proof of Medical Insurance:
- A policy from a Canadian insurance provider with at least CAD 100,000 coverage for a minimum of 1 year.
- Proof of Financial Support (LICO):
- Financial documents showing that your child or grandchild meets the minimum income threshold. This can include tax assessments, pay stubs, or bank statements.
- Medical Examination Results:
- The results of your medical exam from an IRCC-approved panel physician.
- Proof of Strong Ties to Your Home Country:
- Documents showing you have ties to your home country and intend to return, such as property ownership, employment contracts, or family responsibilities.
Application Process for the Canada Super Visa
The application process for the Canada Super Visa is straightforward, and applications can be submitted online or through a paper-based application. Below are the steps:
- Submit Your Application
Submit your Super Visa application online via the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) portal, or through a paper-based application at a visa application center (VAC).
- Provide Biometrics
You will be asked to provide biometrics (fingerprints and a photo) at a local visa application center. This must be done after submitting your application.
- Complete the Medical Exam
Undergo a medical examination with a doctor approved by IRCC, and submit the results as part of your application.
- Await Decision
Processing times for the Super Visa vary depending on your country of residence, but typically take between 8 to 12 weeks. During this time, IRCC will review your documents, including your medical exam and biometrics.
- Receive Super Visa Approval
Once approved, you will receive a multiple-entry visa that allows you to stay in Canada for up to 2 years at a time. The Super Visa is usually valid for up to 10 years, depending on your passport validity.
Super Visa vs. Regular Visitor Visa
While the Super Visa and the Visitor Visa (TRV) both allow individuals to visit Canada temporarily, there are some important differences:
| Feature | Super Visa | Visitor Visa (TRV) |
|---|---|---|
| Stay Duration | Up to 2 years per entry | Up to 6 months per entry |
| Visa Validity | Up to 10 years | Typically up to 10 years |
| Medical Insurance Requirement | Mandatory for at least 1 year | Not required |
| Medical Exam Requirement | Mandatory | Only required in certain cases |
| Eligibility | Parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents | Any visitor to Canada |
Super Visa Costs
The application fees for the Canada Super Visa are as follows:
- Application Fee: CAD 100 per applicant.
- Biometrics Fee: CAD 85 for fingerprinting and photo submission.
- Medical Insurance: Costs vary depending on the insurance provider but expect to pay approximately CAD 1,000 to CAD 2,000 per year for insurance coverage.
How We Can Help
At A Square Migration Services, we provide expert guidance and support throughout the entire Canada Super Visaapplication process. Our services include:
- Application Preparation: We assist in gathering all required documents and ensuring your application is complete and accurate.
- Medical Insurance Guidance: We help you find a reliable Canadian insurance provider that meets the Super Visa requirements.
- Financial Support Evaluation: We ensure that your child or grandchild meets the financial threshold and help them prepare the necessary documents to prove their income.
Enjoy Extended Time with Your Family in Canada
The Canada Super Visa offers a fantastic opportunity for parents and grandparents to visit their loved ones in Canada for extended periods. At A Square Migration Services, we are here to guide you through every step of the Super Visa process, ensuring that you can enjoy quality time with your family in Canada.
Contact us today to start your Super Visa application and begin your journey to visit Canada!