What is a Super Visa?

A Super Visa is a special type of visa granted to parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows them to stay in Canada for extended periods, typically up to two years at a time without the need to renew their status. The Super Visa provides a unique opportunity for families to reunite and spend more time together while maintaining the flexibility of longer stays.

The Super Visa is designed to strengthen family ties by allowing parents and grandparents to visit their loved ones in Canada without the frequent need to reapply for visas. It is a multi-entry visa that can last up to 10 years, with each visit lasting up to two years.

Who is Eligible for a Super Visa?

To be eligible for the Super Visa, the applicant (the parent or grandparent) must meet specific criteria set by the Canadian government:

1. Relationship to a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident: The applicant must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada.
2. Invitation Letter: The applicant must provide an invitation letter from their child or grandchild in Canada. This letter should confirm that the sponsor will support the applicant during their stay and that the family member is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
3. Proof of Financial Support: The Canadian child or grandchild inviting the applicant must meet a minimum income requirement and provide proof that they can financially support the applicant during their stay in Canada. This may include tax documents, pay stubs, or other financial statements.
4. Medical Insurance: The applicant must have valid medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company for at least one year from the date of arrival. This is required to ensure that the applicant is covered for medical emergencies during their stay.
5. Successful Medical Exam: The applicant may be required to undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet Canada’s health standards. This is especially important to ensure that they do not pose a health risk to the Canadian public.
6. Proof of Ties to Home Country: The applicant should demonstrate that they have strong ties to their home country, such as a job, property, or other commitments that will ensure they return after their visit.
7. Admissibility: The applicant must be admissible to Canada, meaning they must meet all the health, security, and criminality requirements set by Canadian immigration authorities.

How to Apply for a Super Visa?

Applying for a Super Visa involves a process similar to applying for a regular visitor visa, but with a few additional requirements. Here’s a step-by-step breakdown of how to apply:

1. Complete the Application: The first step is to complete the Super Visa application form, which is available online on the Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
2. Prepare Supporting Documents: Along with the application form, you must submit the following documents:
   • A letter of invitation from your Canadian child or grandchild.
   • Proof of the sponsor’s financial ability to support you (e.g., Notice of Assessment, pay stubs).
   • Proof of medical insurance coverage for at least one year from a Canadian insurance company.
   • A copy of your passport, valid for at least one year.
   • Any medical records if applicable.
3. Submit the Application: After gathering all the necessary documents, submit your application online or at the nearest Canadian visa office in your country.
4. Pay the Fees: There is a fee associated with the Super Visa application, which must be paid during the submission process.
5. Wait for a Decision: Once the application is submitted, it will be reviewed by immigration officials. If additional documents or an interview is required, you will be contacted.
6. Receive a Decision: If approved, you will be issued a Super Visa that allows you to stay in Canada for up to two years at a time. You may also be granted a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 10 years.

Benefits of a Super Visa

The Super Visa offers several advantages for both applicants and their Canadian family members:

1. Extended Stay: Unlike a regular visitor visa, which allows you to stay in Canada for up to six months, the Super Visa allows parents and grandparents to stay for up to two years at a time. This means fewer trips to renew visas and more time with loved ones.
2. Multiple Entries: The Super Visa is valid for up to 10 years, meaning the holder can enter and exit Canada multiple times without the need to reapply each time.
3. Fewer Renewals: With the Super Visa, the process of renewing status is less frequent, as applicants can remain in Canada for extended periods without having to apply for a new visa after every visit.
4. Reuniting Families: The Super Visa allows families to reunite more easily. For parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, this visa offers a practical solution for spending more time together.
5. Flexibility: The Super Visa provides more flexibility to travel and stay in Canada longer without the constant worry of reapplying for a visitor visa.

Final Thoughts

The Super Visa is an excellent option for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents who wish to visit their loved ones in Canada for extended periods. The application process may seem detailed, but with proper preparation, it can provide a long-term solution for family reunification. Make sure to meet all the eligibility requirements, gather the necessary documents, and apply in advance to ensure a smooth application process.