Big Changes for Super Visa Health Insurance Requirements
Starting January 28, 2025, Canada has made a significant update to its Super Visa health insurance requirements, allowing applicants to purchase coverage from non-Canadian health insurance providers. Previously, only Canadian insurers were accepted, making the process more restrictive for parents and grandparents applying for a Super Visa.
This change aims to make it easier for families to reunite by expanding access to Super Visa health insurance, giving applicants more flexibility in selecting affordable policies. However, non-Canadian insurers must meet strict regulatory standards to qualify.
With this update, Super Visa holders can stay in Canada for up to five years per visit, with the option to extend their stay by another two years. Here’s everything you need to know about the new Super Visa insurance requirements and how to qualify.
Which Non-Canadian Insurance Providers Are Now Eligible?
Under the new rules, foreign health insurance providers must meet the following requirements to be accepted for Super Visa eligibility:
- Regulation by OSFI – The insurer must be approved by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) under the Insurance Companies Act.
- Listed as a Federally Regulated Financial Institution – The provider must appear on the OSFI list of federally regulated financial institutions.
- Policy Issued in Canada – The insurance plan must be clearly marked as issued or made in Canada.
It’s important to note that insurance brokers and claims administrators are NOT eligible providers, as they do not issue policies themselves.
Minimum Insurance Coverage Requirements for Super Visa
Regardless of whether an applicant purchases a Canadian or non-Canadian insurance plan, all policies must:
- Be valid for at least one year from the applicant’s entry date into Canada.
- Be paid in full or in installments with an initial deposit.
- Cover essential medical services, including healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- Provide a minimum coverage amount of CAD $100,000.
How to Verify if Your Health Insurance Provider Qualifies
To avoid issues with your Super Visa application, it is crucial to confirm whether your chosen insurance provider meets the new eligibility standards.
Step 1: Verify OSFI Approval
Go to the OSFI’s website and check if your health insurance provider is listed among the federally regulated financial institutions. At present, this list includes 79 banks and 41 trust companies.
Step 2: Check Insurance Company Authorization Under the Insurance Companies Act
To ensure your foreign health insurance provider meets Canada’s legal requirements, contact OSFI via email at information@osfi-bsif.gc.ca. Include as many details as possible about your insurance provider and policy to receive confirmation.
OSFI aims to respond to inquiries within 15 business days.
Step 3: Confirm That the Policy is Issued in Canada
Your insurance provider must clearly state in the policy document that it was issued or made in Canada. If this statement is missing, your Super Visa application may be denied.
What is the Super Visa and Who Can Apply?
The Super Visa is a long-term multiple-entry visa designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. It allows them to visit family in Canada for extended periods without needing to renew their visitor status frequently.
Key Benefits of the Super Visa
- Stay in Canada for up to five years per visit.
- Extend the visit by an additional two years without leaving Canada.
- Faster processing compared to the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP).
- Lower financial burden compared to PR pathways.
Super Visa vs. Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)
While the PGP offers permanent residency, it operates on a lottery system and has limited spots, making it an uncertain and lengthy process. The Super Visa is a more reliable option for those who want to visit their families in Canada for extended periods.
Super Visa Eligibility Criteria
To apply for a Super Visa for Canada, you must meet the following requirements:
- You must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- You must apply from outside Canada.
- You need an official letter of invitation from your child or grandchild, outlining financial support.
- Your child or grandchild must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) requirements.
- You must pass a medical examination.
- You must provide proof of private health insurance (Canadian or eligible foreign insurer).
- You must get your visa printed at a Canadian visa office outside Canada.
What to Expect When Entering Canada with a Super Visa
When you arrive at the Canadian border, you must present:
- A valid Super Visa.
- Proof of fully paid health insurance.
- Medical exam results.
- Proof of financial support from your sponsor.
Failure to provide any of these documents may result in denied entry to Canada.
