If you are looking for a way to reunite with your parents or grandparents in Canada, the Super Visa offers a unique solution that allows them to stay for extended periods. Family members of Canadian citizens and permanent residents can apply for multiple entries over a ten-year period with this special visa. With the ability to stay up to five years at a time, it’s an ideal option for families wanting more time together. In this step-by-step guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about applying for a Super Visa Canada in 2024. Let’s dive into the details!
What is a Super Visa Canada?
The Super Visa Canada is a special immigration program that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit Canada for extended periods. Unlike a regular visitor visa, it enables eligible applicants to stay for up to five years per entry, with multiple entries over ten years.
This visa is designed to promote family reunification while ensuring visitors can enjoy long stays without the constant need for renewals. It provides peace of mind for families looking to spend quality time together in Canada without worrying about frequent travel restrictions.
Key Features of the Super Visa:
- Duration: Up to five years per visit.
- Multiple Entries: Valid for up to 10 years, allowing multiple entries into Canada.
- Healthcare Coverage: Requires proof of private medical insurance from a Canadian company.
- Eligibility: Only parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents can apply.
Who Can Apply for Super Visa Canada?
Parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents can visit their family in Canada for an extended period with the Super Visa Canada. To be eligible for this visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
1. Relationship to a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident: You must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident residing in Canada.
2. Health and Security Requirements: You must undergo a medical examination by a panel physician approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). And you must be admissible to Canada, meaning you must not have a criminal record or security concerns.
3. Intentions and Financial Support: You must demonstrate that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay. And your child or grandchild in Canada must meet the minimum necessary income (MNI) requirements and provide a written promise of financial support for your visit.
Additionally, you must be applying from outside Canada and should not intend to work during your stay. This visa allows families to reunite while ensuring that the sponsors can provide the necessary financial support throughout the visit.
Requirements for the Super Visa Canada
To apply for a Super Visa, you need to provide specific documents that support your application:
1. Letter of Invitation: A signed letter from your child or grandchild in Canada that includes a promise of financial support, the number of people in the household, and a copy of their Canadian citizenship or permanent resident document.
2. Proof of Relationship: Documents that confirm your relationship to the host in Canada, such as a birth certificate or other official documents.
3. Minimum Necessary Income (MNI): Your host must meet the MNI requirement based on their family size. This includes their income, the number of people in their household, and the number of sponsored people.
Medical Insurance Requirements for Super Visas
One of the critical requirements for a Super Visa is obtaining medical insurance that meets the following criteria:
| Criteria | Details |
|---|---|
| Coverage Duration | Minimum of 1 year from the date of entry. |
| Coverage Amount | Must cover at least CAD 100,000. |
| Insurance Provider | Must be from a Canadian insurance company or an approved foreign insurance company. |
| Healthcare Coverage | Must cover healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation costs. |
| Payment Requirements | Must be paid in full or with a deposit; quotes are not accepted. |
This insurance must be valid for each entry into Canada and may be requested by a border services officer upon arrival.
What Supporting Documents Do You Need for a Super Visa?
You must gather and provide several key supporting documents to apply for a Super Visa Canada. This includes proof of your relationship with the Canadian citizen or permanent resident inviting you, such as birth or marriage certificates and documentation of their Canadian citizenship or permanent residency.
Additionally, you’ll need an invitation letter from your host detailing your visit and accommodation, proof of medical insurance coverage for at least one year, and evidence of the host’s ability to financially support you during your stay. Collecting these documents ensures a complete and accurate application.
1. Proof of Relationship to Your Host: Birth or marriage certificates that demonstrate your relationship with the child or grandchild inviting you.
2. Proof of Host’s Status in Canada: Copies of your host’s Canadian citizenship or permanent residency status.
3. Invitation Letter: A letter from your host detailing your visit and accommodation arrangements.
4. Proof of Medical Insurance: Documentation showing that you have paid for at least one year of health insurance coverage, which meets Canadian requirements.
5. Proof of Completing a Medical Exam: A receipt or form from the panel physician confirming that you have completed the required medical exam.
6. Financial Documents: Evidence that your host can financially support you during your stay, such as tax returns, pay stubs, or bank statements. This should also include proof that your host meets the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) requirement.
7. Identification Documents: Relevant identification documents like passports.
8. Travel History (if applicable): Documents showing your travel history, including visas and stamps from previous travels.
Ensuring you have all these documents prepared and adequately organized will help facilitate a smoother application process for your Super Visa.
Super Visa Application Cost
The cost of applying for a Super Visa in Canada includes several components. The most significant fee is the application processing fee, currently around CAD 100 per person. This fee must be paid when you submit your application.
Additionally, applicants should consider the cost of medical insurance, which varies depending on coverage and provider. Budgeting for these expenses is essential as they can significantly impact the overall costs of obtaining a Super Visa.
Applying for a Super Visa involves several costs:
| Fee Type | Amount |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | CAD 100 per applicant |
| Biometrics Fee | CAD 85 per person or CAD 170 for a family |
| Medical Exam Fee | Varies depending on the country and physician |
| Medical Insurance | Varies depending on age, coverage amount, and insurance provider |
Super Visa Processing Time
Applicants should expect their visa to be processed within 8 weeks to 6 months in Canada, depending on several factors, including the volume of applications, their country of residence, and individual circumstances.
To ensure a smoother process, submitting all required documents accurately and promptly is crucial. Additional factors, such as the need for biometrics and the completion of a medical exam, can also impact the processing time. For the most accurate and current estimates, it’s advisable to check the official government website. Being well-prepared and attentive to all requirements can often lead to quicker approvals.
How to Apply for a Super Visa Canada?
To apply for a Super Visa Canada, gather the necessary documents. You must provide proof of your relationship with your child or grandchild, financial support evidence, and medical insurance details.
Next, you must fill out the application form online or on paper. Pay the required fees and submit your application through the appropriate channels. After submission, monitor its status online for updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Being organized enhances your chances of a smooth approval process.
- Gather Your Documents: Collect all required documents, including a letter of invitation, proof of insurance, medical exam results, and financial documents.
- Apply Online Through the IRCC Portal: You must apply online unless you are exempt (due to disability or specific travel documents). Visit the IRCC Portal, create an account, and follow the instructions.
- Pay the Application Fees: If applicable, pay the required fees, including the application and biometrics fees.
- Submit Your Application: Submit your application online. If applying on paper (only in specific situations), ensure it is sent to the correct IRCC office.
- Provide Biometrics: After submitting your application, you will receive a request for biometrics (fingerprints and photos) if required. Follow the instructions to complete this step
What Happens After You Apply for a Super Visa?
After submitting your Super Visa application, it enters the processing phase. You will receive a confirmation of receipt from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). This notification typically includes details about your application number and estimated processing times.
During this period, you may be asked for additional information or documents. It’s essential to respond promptly to any requests from IRCC. If approved, you’ll receive instructions on proceeding with your visa issuance, including any specific requirements that must be fulfilled before traveling to Canada.
Do You Need an eTA as Well as a Super Visa?
If you’re applying for a Super Visa Canada, you generally do not need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). The Super Visa allows for multiple entries into Canada over up to 10 years, so it covers your travel needs without requiring an additional eTA.
However, if you’re from a visa-exempt country and traveling by air, you typically need an eTA and your Super Visa. Conversely, if you hold a passport from a visa-required country, you must apply for a regular visitor visa instead of an eTA. Verifying your specific circumstances and ensuring all necessary documents are in order before making travel plans is essential.
Super Visa Vs. Regular Visitor Visa
The Super Visa Canada allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit for up to five years, providing greater flexibility than the Regular Visitor Visa. The latter typically permits stays of six months only, requiring more frequent reapplications for extended visits.
The Super Visa also includes medical insurance requirements that ensure visitors can cover healthcare costs in Canada. This aspect is not mandatory with a Regular Visitor Visa, which may leave travelers vulnerable if unexpected health issues arise during their stay.
The Super Visa and the Regular Visitor Visa both allow you to visit Canada, but they have key differences:
| Feature | Super Visa | Regular Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Duration of Stay | Up to 5 years per visit | Up to 6 months per visit |
| Validity | Valid for up to 10 years | Valid for up to 10 years |
| Insurance Requirement | Mandatory | Not required |
| Eligibility | Only for parents and grandparents of Canadians or permanent residents | Open to all applicants |
Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship for Super Visa
A Super Visa is an excellent option for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows them to visit Canada for extended periods, up to five years at a time, without needing to renew their status. This program fosters family connections while providing flexibility in travel plans.
To qualify, sponsors must demonstrate financial capability to support their parents or grandparents during their stay. They also need to meet specific income requirements set by the government. This sponsorship process ensures families enjoy meaningful time together in Canada while adhering to immigration regulations.
Super Visa Extensions
Super Visa holders can apply for extensions to prolong their stay in Canada, typically up to five years. To qualify, your original Super Visa must still be valid and meet the requirements of Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
You should apply for the extension at least 30 days before your current status expires. Ensure your medical insurance coverage is extended for the new period and that you submit all required documents and fees online or via paper forms. Timely and complete submission of your extension application is essential to avoid issues with your immigration status while in Canada.
Changes to Super Visa Canada
Recent Super Visa Canada program updates aim to streamline the application process and enhance benefits for applicants. Notably, the maximum stay per visit has been extended from two to five years, allowing parents and grandparents to enjoy longer stays in Canada.
Additionally, there have been changes to the medical insurance requirements. Applicants can now obtain coverage from approved foreign insurance providers and Canadian companies, ensuring better access to healthcare during their stay. Efforts are also underway to reduce processing times through improved online application systems. These modifications reflect Canada’s ongoing commitment to supporting family reunification while maintaining high health standards.
Conclusion
Navigating the process of applying for a Super Visa Canada can seem daunting, but it becomes manageable with the right knowledge and preparation. This visa allows parents and grandparents to spend extended time with their family in Canada while enjoying multiple entries over ten years.
Understanding eligibility criteria, gathering necessary documents, and meeting medical insurance requirements are crucial. Be aware of application costs and processing times to set realistic expectations.
The Super Visa provides an excellent opportunity for families to create lasting memories across borders. Staying informed about recent program changes or updates is essential for a smooth application experience. Your journey towards reuniting with loved ones in Canada starts here!
FAQ
Who is eligible for a super visa in Canada?
To be eligible for a Super Visa in Canada, applicants must be the parents or grandparents of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, must meet medical requirements, and must provide proof of sufficient financial support from their child or grandchild.
How long can a super visa holder stay in Canada?
A Super Visa allows holders to stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time per visit. The visa is valid for up to 10 years, or until the passport expires, whichever comes first.
How much money is required for a Super Visa in Canada?
The minimum income required for a Super Visa is determined by the Low Income Measure (LIM) for the size of the household. The sponsoring child or grandchild must show they meet this income threshold.
Can a Super Visa be converted to PR?
No, a Super Visa cannot be converted to Permanent Residency (PR). It is a temporary visa that allows extended stays but does not lead to PR status. For PR, different pathways must be pursued.
What is proof of income for a Super Visa?
Proof of income for a Super Visa includes documents such as recent pay stubs, tax returns, employment letters, and bank statements that demonstrate the sponsor’s ability to support the visa applicant.
What is the difference between PR and Super Visa in Canada?
Permanent Residency (PR) grants long-term or permanent status in Canada, including benefits like healthcare and the right to work. A Super Visa allows for extended visits but is temporary and does not grant PR status or benefits.
