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The Comprehensive Guide to Canada Super Visa
By : Lifeincan   |   Jul 30, 2024

The Comprehensive Guide to Canada Super Visa

Canada, a country with a good standard of living and full of opportunities for immigrants, has always been popular among people worldwide. For family reunification, the Canadian government came up with the super visa, a multiple-entry visa that enables parents and grandparents of Canadians and permanent residents to visit and live in the country for an extended duration. This guide will explain all the Canada Super Visa requirements, steps in the application process, and useful features.

What is the Canada Super Visa?

The Canada super visa was introduced in December 2011 and is intended for long-stay visits of parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Unlike a regular visitor visa, which typically allows a stay of up to six months, the Super Visa permits holders to stay in Canada for up to five years per entry without the need to renew their status.

How Does the Super Visa Benefit Canadian Society?

The Super Visa application has brought positive changes to the society of Canada. It facilitates family reunions and contributes to economic sustainability because naturalized citizens and working-age immigrants can engage more effectively in the labour market. Here are some of the key benefits:

Benefit

Description

Childcare Support

Grandparents can assist with childcare, enabling parents to work or pursue education, thus contributing to the economy.

Emotional Well-being

Having family close by can significantly improve the emotional and mental well-being of immigrants, leading to better productivity and societal integration.

Cultural Continuity

The presence of grandparents helps maintain cultural traditions and values within the family, enriching the multicultural fabric of Canadian society.

Key Features of the Super Visa

Feature

Description

Long-term Stay

Gives parents and grandparents a 5-year stay in Canada in one visit.

Multiple Entries

Valid for up to 10 years, enabling multiple entries without reapplication.

Extended Visits

Beneficial for families wishing to spend more time together without frequent renewals.


Eligibility Criteria for the Super Visa

To qualify for a Super Visa, you need to meet the following criteria:

Criteria

Details

Relationship Proof

  • Should be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian PR citizen.

  • Provide proof of relationship, such as a birth or baptismal certificate.

Host Requirements

  • The host (child or grandchild) must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

  • The host must meet the minimum necessary income, as per the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) guidelines.

  • Provide a letter of invitation detailing financial support and living arrangements.

Health Insurance

  • Should have medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company.

  • The insurance must cover health care, hospitalization, and repatriation with a minimum coverage of $100,000 and be valid for at least one year from the date of entry.

Medical Examination

Applicants must undergo a medical examination to ensure they are admissible on health grounds.

Financial Support Proof

The host must demonstrate their household meets the LICO minimum through documents such as a Notice of Assessment (NOA, T4 or T1 tax forms, employment insurance stubs, employment letter including salary and hiring date, pay stubs, and bank statements

Differences Between Super Visa and Visitor Visa

Here are the key differences betweena super visa and a visitor visa:

Feature

Super Visa

Visitor Visa

Maximum Stay per Visit

Up to 5 years

Up to 6 months

Validity

Up to 10 years

Typically up to 10 years

Medical Insurance

Mandatory

Not required

Processing Time

Faster

Standard

Target Applicants

Parents and grandparents only

General


Super Visa for Visa-Exempt Visitors

Parents and grandparents from visa-exempt countries can also apply for a Super Visa. Instead of a visa, they receive a letter authorizing their stay for up to five years per visit. They may still need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) if traveling by air.

Application Process in Detail

Step 1: Obtain an Invitation Letter

The first step in the application process is obtaining a detailed invitation letter from your host (child or grandchild) in Canada. This letter should include:

  • Financial support during the visit.

  • Detailed plans for your care and accommodation.

  • Information about the number of people living in the host’s household.

Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents

Next, gather all the necessary documents to prove your eligibility, including:

  • Proof of relationship (birth certificate, baptismal certificate).

  • Proof of the host’s income (NOA, T4/T1, pay stubs).

  • Proof of private health insurance coverage.

  • A completed medical examination form.

Step 3: Submit the Application

Submit your application online through the IRCC portal or via a paper-based process. Make sure to complete and check all sections and include all supporting documents.

Step 4: Wait for Processing

The processing time for a Super Visa application can vary, but it generally takes around eight weeks. During this time, the application will be assessed for completeness, accuracy, and eligibility.

Income Requirements for Hosts

To ensure the financial stability of the visiting parents or grandparents, the host in Canada must meet specific income requirements. The table below outlines the minimum necessary income based on family size:

Family Size

Minimum Necessary Gross Income

1 person

$27,514

2 persons

$34,254

3 persons

$42,100

4 persons

$51,128

5 persons

$57,988

6 persons

$65,400

7 persons

$72,814

Additional

$7,412 per person

Health Insurance Coverage

One of the critical requirements for the Super Visa is having valid private health insurance. This insurance must:

  • Be issued by a Canadian insurance company.

  • Be valid for one year from the entry date.

  • Cover health care, hospitalization, and repatriation.

  • Offer at least an emergency coverage of $100,000.

Preparing for Your Stay

Stage

Description

Entry to Canada

Upon arrival in Canada, a Border Services Officer (BSO) will verify your documents and ensure all requirements are met. It's important to carry all relevant documents in your cabin baggage for easy access.

During Your Stay

While in Canada, ensure your health insurance remains valid throughout your stay. If your insurance policy is nearing expiry, renew it to maintain coverage.

Extending Your Stay

If you wish to stay longer than your initial entry period, apply for an extension at least 30 days before your status expires. This will allow you to remain in Canada under implied status while your application is processed.

Conclusion

The Canada Super Visa is an excellent option for parents and grandparents wishing to spend extended periods with their families in Canada. It offers long-term stay, multiple entries, and the peace of mind of health coverage. By meeting the eligibility criteria and following the application process, families can enjoy the benefits of being together in Canada.