Parent & Grandparent Super Visas allow eligible parents and grandparents to apply and enjoy visiting their family in Canada for up to two years without the need to renew status. Citizenship and Immigration Canada (“CIC”) under this program may issue a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 10 years to eligible applicants to facilitate their back and forth travel between their home country and Canada.
To qualify, the applicant must meet the following requirements:
- be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada, be found admissible to Canada
- have a written commitment of financial support from their child or grandchild in Canada who meets a certain economic threshold
- prove that they have bought Canadian medical insurance coverage for at least one year and
- complete an immigration medical examination.
Visa officers consider several factors before deciding if a person is admissible. The person must be a genuine visitor to Canada who will leave by choice at the end of the visit. Among the things that could be considered are:
- the person’s ties to the home country
- the purpose of the visit
- the person’s family and financial situation
- the overall economic and political stability of the home country and
- an invitation from a Canadian host.
It is important to note that the super visa is still a temporary application.
If you hope to have your parent or grandparent stay in Canada permanently, you will need to submit a parental sponsorship application.
Here are some key features of the Super Visa in Canada:
Duration: The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to two years on initial entry.
Multiple Entries: Super Visa holders can travel in and out of Canada multiple times within the validity period without the need to reapply for a visa.
Insurance Requirement: One of the key requirements for obtaining a Super Visa is the need for medical insurance coverage. Applicants must provide proof of private medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company that is valid for a minimum of one year and offers a minimum coverage amount.
Financial Requirements: Applicants must also meet specific financial criteria to demonstrate that they have enough funds to support themselves during their stay in Canada.
Application Process: The application process for a Super Visa involves submitting the required documents, including a letter of invitation from the Canadian citizen or permanent resident family member, proof of private medical insurance, and other supporting documents.