Super Visa

For foreign parents and grandparents who wish to visit their children or grandchildren in Canada

A super visa allows parents and grandparents to visit their children or grandchildren for up to five years at a time.

It is a multi-entry visa which is valid for up to ten years. A super visa is not required if the parents or grandparents are only willing to remain in Canada for six months or less. In that case, a visitor visa will suffice.

To be eligible for a super visa, the parent or grandparent must

be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident

have a signed letter from the child or grandchild who invites them to Canada. The letter shall promise to financially support the parent or grandparent for the length of their visit by meeting the minimum necessary income requirement. It shall also include the number of people in their household and a copy of their Canadian citizenship or permanent resident document

have medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company, with proof of payment in full or in instalments with a deposit (quotes are not allowed). The medical insurance must be valid for at least one year from the date of their entry and provide at least $100,000 emergency coverage

Additionally, the parent or grandparent must also:

apply for a super visa from outside Canada

have their visa printed outside Canada (wait for visa office instructions)

take and pass an immigration medical exam from an IRCC panel physician

meet any other conditions made by IRCC

Minimum Necessary Income

The minimum necessary income needed to be eligible for a super visa depends on the family size of the child or grandchild that is providing the invitation letter.

The following table lists the minimum necessary gross income based on family size:

The table above is subject to change. For the most up-to-date income table, please visit the IRCC website.

In order to calculate the family size, you will count:

The host child or host grandchild

Their spouse or common-law partner

Their dependent children

Any person that has been previously sponsored in which the sponsorship or undertaking is still in effect

The parent or grandparent they will be supporting

The spouse or common-law partner, if accompanying, of the parent or grandparent

For example, a Canadian citizen who is married with two dependent children, would like to invite his mother to come to Canada on a super visa. The family size would equal 5, which means a minimum necessary gross income of $56,104 is needed.

If the income of the child or grandchild does not meet the minimum necessary gross income, the spouse or common-law partner can also assist with a letter of invitation and acceptable evidence.

(See IRCC website or book a consultation for more information)

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