Super Visa

The Super Visa is a long-term, multiple-entry visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit Canada for extended periods. Unlike a regular visitor visa, which typically permits a stay of up to six months per visit, the Super Visa enables holders to remain in Canada for up to five years at a time without the need to renew their status. The visa is valid for up to 10 years, aligning with the standard validity of multiple-entry visas issued by Canada.

Who Should Apply for a Super Visa?

The Super Visa is ideal for parents and grandparents who:

1. Desire Extended Visits: If you wish to spend significant time with your family in Canada without the hassle of frequent renewals, the Super Visa is an excellent option.
2. Have a Strong Bond with Canadian Relatives: Those with Canadian children or grandchildren who want to support family events, assist with childcare, or simply enjoy quality time together will benefit greatly from the Super Visa.
3. Meet Specific Financial Requirements: Since the Super Visa requires proof of financial support from the Canadian sponsor, applicants with financially stable family members in Canada are better positioned to apply.
4. Reside Outside Canada: The Super Visa is exclusively for parents and grandparents living outside Canada. It cannot be converted from within Canada if you are already in the country on another visa.

Super Visa Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for a Super Visa, both the applicant (parent or grandparent) and their Canadian sponsor must meet specific requirements. These include:

Eligibility for Applicants

1. Relationship to Sponsor:
   • You must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
2. Intent to Leave Canada:
   • You must demonstrate a genuine intention to leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay. Evidence can include ties to your home country, such as property, employment, or other family members.
3. Medical Insurance:
   • You must provide proof of private medical insurance from a Canadian insurer.
   • The coverage must be valid for at least one year, with a minimum coverage amount of CAD $100,000.
4. Medical Examination:
   • You may be required to undergo a medical examination to ensure you meet Canada’s health standards.
5. Proof of Financial Stability:
   • You must demonstrate that your Canadian sponsor meets the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) requirements, ensuring they can support you during your stay.
6. Valid Passport:
   • Your passport must be valid for the duration of your planned stay.

Eligibility for Sponsors

1. Residency Status:
   • The sponsor must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
2. Financial Requirements:
   • The sponsor must provide a written promise of financial support for the entire duration of your stay.
   • They must meet or exceed the LICO threshold based on their family size, including the visiting parents or grandparents.
3. Income Proof:
   • Acceptable evidence includes recent tax returns, pay stubs, employment letters, and bank statements.