Canada Super Visa: Step-by-Step Application Process for Parents/Grandparents
The Canada super visa is a unique visa designed for the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. This visa allows them to stay and visit Canada for five years without the hassle of frequent renewals. This visa option is ideal for families who want to spend quality time with their parents and grandparents. Unlike a visitor visa, which is valid for just six months, this option allows the applicants to stay in Canada for up to five years, with an option to extend.
To apply for a super visa in Canada, it is important to understand the requirements, complete the document checklist, and follow the application procedure. The application process may seem overwhelming at first, but seeking help from immigration consultants can help you navigate the process confidently. When we talk about consulting with immigration experts, Canada Shaws is the best place. Our experts are deeply committed to helping you with all your immigration-related problems.
If you have any questions, you can book a free orientation with our certified immigration and legal experts.
What is a Super Visa in Canada and How Does It Work?
A Canadian super visa is a family-oriented, multi-entry visa that allows the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to stay in Canada for up to five years. This visa does not require multiple renewals.
- This is a multi-entry visa, which means the visa holder can enter or leave Canada multiple times during the validity period of 10years.
- The visa is specifically for the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens.
- The visa does not offer a permanent residency option, unlike many other Canadian visas.
- The Canadian citizen or permanent resident must meet the income requirements so that they can support their parents and grandparents during their stay in Canada.
- The applicant must have proof of medical insurance from an insurance group in Canada.
If you are looking to get permanent residence in Canada, know how to prepare for it.
Super Visa Canada Requirements 2025: Who is Eligible?
To be eligible for a super visa, you need a sponsor who must be your
- Child or grandchild
- A Canadian citizen, permanent resident of Canada, or registered Indian, who must provide a copy of one of the following documents:
- The Canadian citizenship document
- The permanent resident document of the host
- A Secure Certificate of Indian Status or Certificate of Indian Status (status card)
- Must be living in Canada and 18 years of age.
- The candidate must have proof of health insurance.
- The host must sign a letter inviting you to Canada that includes
- A promise of financial support for the duration of your visit
- The list (including name and date of birth) and the number of people included when you calculate your family size to determine the minimum necessary income.
- Must meet or exceed the minimum necessary income.
The table below shows the details of the minimum amount of money you need to immigrate to Canada.
| Number of family members | Amount you need |
| 1 | $30,526 |
| 2 | $38002 |
| 3 | $46,720 |
| 4 | $56,724 |
| 5 | $64,336 |
| 6 | $72,560 |
| 7 | $80,784 |
| If more than for each member, add | $8,224 |
Note: If the child or grandchild has a spouse, they also have to submit their documents.
Super Visa vs Visitor Visa Canada: Key Differences
Super visa is a type of visitor visa that is issued only to the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents of Canada. The main difference between the visas is the validity and the duration of stay in Canada. A visitor visa is valid only for six months, and if you want to extend it, you have to apply for it. With a super visa, you can stay in Canada for up to five years.
The following table shows the key differences between a visitor and a super visa.
| Features | Super Visa | Visitor Visa |
| Stay duration | 5 Years per entry | 6 months |
| Validity Period | 10 years with multiple entries | 6 months with a single entry |
| Medical Insurance | Minimum one-year insurance required | Not required |
| Application processing time | 3-6 months | 3-4 weeks |
| Financial Proof | The host must meet the LICO income threshold | Flexible |
How to Apply for a Super Visa Canada
If you want to apply for a super visa for Canada, following the correct procedure is essential. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you apply and increase your chances of approval.
Step 1: Super Visa Document Checklist
To apply for a super visa, both the host and the applicant have to submit documents. Below is the super visa Canada checklist to give an idea of what to submit.
- A valid passport and travel document.
- 2 photos of yourself (meeting IRCC’s requirements)
- Proof of your relationship to your child or grandchild in Canada.
- Proof of medical insurance from a Canadian insurance provider.
- Medical exam proof (if requested by IRCC)
- A letter of invitation from your child or grandchild in Canada. (It must contain the details of both the host and the applicant.)
- Proof of host’s status in Canada Canadian Passport)
- Proof of meeting the low-income cutoff.
- Completed application forms.
Step 2: Apply for a Super Visa Canada for Parents or Grandparents
The next step involves submitting the duly filled application forms and complete documents.
- Application for Temporary Resident Visa (IMM 5257)
- Family Information (IMM 5645 or IMM 5707)
- Document Checklist (IMM 5484)
- Document Checklist – Applicants in Canada (IMM 5721), if applicable
- Statutory Declaration of Common-law Union (IMM 5409), if applicable
- Use of a Representative (IMM 5476), if applicable
- Authority to release personal information to a designated individual (IMM 5475), if applicable
Step 3: Biometrics for Super Visa
Give your biometrics and your medical exam.
Step 4: Submit Application to IRCC Super Visa Portal
Create an IRCC account and upload your form and documents. Pay the processing fee.
Processing Time: How Long Does it Take to Get a Super Visa for Canada?
Super visa processing times can vary from 8 to 12 weeks. Actual processing time can vary for different applications. However, there are various factors that can affect the processing time.
- The application should be complete with no inaccuracies.
- Complex cases require extra scrutiny and take longer processing times.
- A large number of applications can also cause longer wait times.
After the application, you need to wait for a decision from IRCC.
Canada Super Visa Fees and Other Costs
- The basic fee for a Canadian super visa includes an amount of $100 per entry visa.
- The biometric fee includes $85 for one person and $170 for a family applying together.
- Medical examination fee ranges between $100-$300, and it must be done by an IRCC-approved panel physician.
- Medical insurance costs include a minimum $100,000 per year. The insurance cost depends on the age, health, and insurance provider.
- There can be some other costs, such as document translation (if needed), travel costs, and courier costs.
Insurance for Super Visa Canada
If you are applying for super visa insurance in Canada, you must have a health insurance policy either from
- Health insurance company in Canada or
- From a company outside Canada (authorized by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions under the Insurance Companies Act).
- The health insurance policy should be valid for one year from the date of entry.
- It should be paid in full or in installments with a deposit.
- The insurance should cover healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation.
In order to have a super visa for Canada, you should have a valid health insurance policy while in Canada. If your health insurance expires before you leave Canada, you may need to renew or maintain your health insurance during your stay. Private health insurance must be valid each time you enter Canada. You need to show proof of paid insurance when you enter Canada!
Know more about how to find your dream job in Canada.
Common Mistakes to Avoid: Tips for a Successful Application
Avoiding the common mistakes during the super visa application process can save you from unnecessary wait time. The following are some common mistakes and the ways to avoid them.
- Submit complete and accurate application forms. Double-check all the forms for completeness and refer to the document checklist by the Government of Canada.
- Providing false or misleading information can lead to visa refusals. Provide truthful and transparent answers.
- Inadequate finances to support the applicant in Canada can also result in visa rejection. Provide clear financial proof and bank statements.
- Carefully review your application and all documents before submitting them.
- Vague and unclear reasons for visiting Canada can also cause the rejection of your application.
- Understand the complete requirements and application procedure before applying for the super visa to avoid the chances of rejection.
Canada Shaws- A Team Of Licensed Immigration Consultants
If you are looking to reunite with your loved ones in Canada but find it difficult to navigate the application process, you can completely count on the immigration consultants at Canada Shaws.
Our certified consultants are committed to helping you find the best pathway to Canadian immigration. We guide you in choosing from the different immigration pathways to Canada after analysing your needs. From the first step of application submission to the last step of immigration, our lawyers and consultants handle the whole procedure with utmost care and professionalism.
Final Thoughts: Bringing Your Parents and Grandparents Closer
The Canada Super visa is an incredible option for those who want to stay with their loved ones in Canada. However, it is crucial to understand the requirements of the visa and complete the application procedure with utmost care. Securing the right medical insurance and meeting the income requirements can significantly improve the chances of approval. A super visa is an ideal option for those who want to avoid the hassle of frequent renewals.
Choosing the right Canadian immigration option and consulting with licensed immigration experts can help you proceed with your application process confidently. Your Canadian immigration dream is achievable with the licensed immigration consultants of Canada Shaws. You can book a free consultation to get our experts’ advice.
Frequently Asked Questions
No, you cannot apply for a Canadian Super Visa from within Canada if you are already present in the country on a visitor’s visa. Super Visa applications must be submitted from outside Canada. If you are currently in Canada on a visitor’s visa, you would need to return to your home country to apply.
To apply for a Super Visa, you must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. The host (child or grandchild) must meet the minimum income requirement and provide a letter of financial support.
You can apply for an extension from within Canada before your current visa expires. You can apply for an extension of up to 2 years at a time. You can apply for multiple extensions, as long as your host fulfils the eligibility criteria to be your sponsor. The application should be submitted online through the IRCC website.
The holders of a Parent and Grandparent Super Visa have all the rights and restrictions of a regular tourist visa holder, and as such, cannot work while they are in Canada.
Super visa minimum income requirements are as follows:
| Size of family | Minimum necessary income |
|---|---|
| 1 (Sponsor) | $30,526 |
| 2 | $38,002 |
| 3 | $46,720 |
| 4 | $56,724 |
