If you’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident hoping to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada, the Super Visa might be your best option. While the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) for permanent residency (PR) has been closed to new applications since 2020, the Super Visa offers a flexible and accessible way to reunite with your loved ones.
The Super Visa allows your parents or grandparents to visit Canada for up to five years at a time, with the option to extend their stay by an additional two years. Unlike the PGP, the Super Visa is available year-round and doesn’t require an invitation to apply.
In this article, we’ll cover:
- The key differences between the Super Visa and the PGP;
- Eligibility requirements for both the host and the sponsored person(s);
- Minimum income requirements for hosts; and
- How to apply for a Super Visa.
Let’s dive in!
What Is the Super Visa?
The Super Visa is a special type of visitor visa designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows them to stay in Canada for up to five years per visit, with the option to extend their stay by an additional two years. The visa is valid for 10 years, and holders can enter Canada multiple times during this period.
Unlike the PGP, the Super Visa does not lead to permanent residency. It also does not allow holders to work or study in Canada. However, it’s an excellent option for families who want to spend extended time together without the long wait times associated with the PGP.
Super Visa vs. PGP: Key Differences
Here’s a quick comparison of the Super Visa and the PGP:
| Factor | Super Visa | PGP |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Open year-round | Once-a-year lottery system |
| Processing Time | 6 months or less | 33-48 months (depending on location) |
| Maximum Stay | 5 years per visit (extendable by 2 years) | Permanent residency |
| Invitation Required | No | Yes |
| Status Granted | Temporary visitor status | Permanent residency |
| Financial Requirements | Minimum income for the most recent tax year | Minimum income for the past 3 tax years |
| Medical Insurance | Required | Not required |
Eligibility Requirements for the Super Visa
To apply for a Super Visa, both the host (sponsor) and the sponsored person(s) must meet specific eligibility criteria.
Host Eligibility
To sponsor your parents or grandparents for a Super Visa, you must:
- Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian;
- Reside in Canada at the time of application and when your relatives arrive;
- Be at least 18 years old; and
- Meet the minimum income requirements based on your family size.
You must also provide a letter of invitation promising financial support for your relatives during their stay.
Minimum Income Requirements
The income you need to sponsor your relatives depends on your family size. Here’s the breakdown:
| Number of Family Members | Annual Income Required |
|---|---|
| 1 | $29,380 |
| 2 | $36,576 |
| 3 | $44,966 |
| 4 | $54,594 |
| 5 | $61,920 |
| 6 | $69,834 |
| 7 | $77,750 |
| Each additional member | Add $7,916 |
Your spouse or common-law partner can co-sign the application to help meet the income requirements.
Sponsored Person Eligibility
Your parents or grandparents must:
- Be admissible to Canada;
- Purchase health insurance that meets the following requirements:
- Valid for at least one year from the date of entry;
- Provides $100,000 in coverage;
- Covers health care, hospitalization, and repatriation; and
- Issued by a Canadian insurance company or a foreign insurer approved by IRCC.
- Pass an immigration medical exam; and
- Demonstrate intent to return home after their visit (e.g., ties to their home country).
How to Apply for a Super Visa
The application process for the Super Visa is straightforward. Here’s how it works:
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Your parents or grandparents will need the following documents:
- A letter of invitation from you (the host), including your promise of financial support;
- Proof of your income (e.g., Notice of Assessment, employment letter);
- Proof of health insurance;
- Proof of your Canadian citizenship, PR status, or registered Indian status; and
- Proof of your relationship (e.g., birth certificate).
Step 2: Submit the Application
Your relatives must apply online through the IRCC Portal and pay the required fees.
Step 3: Provide Biometrics (if required)
If IRCC requests biometrics, your relatives must visit a biometric collection site to provide fingerprints and a photo.
Step 4: Complete the Medical Exam
After submitting the application, your relatives will receive instructions on how to complete the immigration medical exam.
Step 5: Wait for Processing
Processing times vary but typically take six months or less. Once approved, your relatives can travel to Canada and enjoy their extended stay.
Why Choose the Super Visa?
The Super Visa is an excellent option for families who want to reunite without the long wait times and uncertainty of the PGP. It’s also more flexible, allowing your parents or grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time.
If you’re unsure about the application process or need help meeting the income requirements, consider scheduling a free consultation with an immigration professional.
By choosing the Super Visa, you can bring your parents or grandparents to Canada and enjoy quality time together. Start your application today and make family reunification a reality!
