Super Visa

The Super Visa allows the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to come to Canada as visitors for up to 5 consecutive years (in force since 4 July 2022) on their first visit, without having to extend their status.

Parents and grandparents may remain in Canada for a long period. A super visa may be valid for up to 7 years.

What is a Super Visa?

In force since 4 July 2022, the Super Visa allows eligible parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit their family in Canada for up to 5 years without having to extend their status.

Those who already hold a Super Visa will also be able to apply for a further 2-year extension, which may allow them to remain in Canada as visitors for up to 7 years in a single stay.

The Super Visa is available and is similar toSponsoring parents and grandparents to Canadaand carries a minimum income requirement.

The Super Visa is an ideal option for parents and grandparents living in countries that require aTemporary Resident Visa (TRV)to enter Canada. With a Super Visa, they are able to travel freely between Canada and their country of residence without the worry and inconvenience of repeatedly reapplying for a TRV.

Those who do not need a TRV to enter Canada may also apply using the same application process. Instead of a visa, however, they receive an official letter fromImmigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)allowing them to visit Canada for up to 2 years on first entry.

Conditions for the person sponsored

The parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents may be eligible to apply for a Super Visa. Applicants must not be inadmissible to Canada on medical or security grounds, and may be required to meet specific conditions set by the visa office where they apply.

It is important to note that no dependants may be included in this application. Only the parent or grandparent, together with their spouse or common-law partner, may be included in a Super Visa application.

The process

The application process is similar to that for an ordinary TRV. Further documents are required, however, to ensure that the parents and grandparents will be well supported during their stay in Canada. These requirements include:

• A letter of invitation from the child or grandchild residing in Canada;
• Documents demonstrating that the child or grandchild meets the minimum income level under theThe Low Income Cut-Off (LICO);
• Evidence of the parental relationship with the child or grandchild, such as a birth certificate naming the child or grandchild as the parent;
• Evidence of medical insurance valid for at least 1 year with a Canadian insurer.

The application should be processed at the Canadian visa office responsible for the applicant’s place of residence outside Canada. Depending on the visa office, further documents may be required.

A complete application is assessed against a number of factors. The purpose of the visit to Canada is considered, as is whether the parent or grandparent maintains sufficient ties to their country of origin. This may be illustrated by demonstrating family, financial and other connections outside Canada.

All Super Visa applicants are required to undergo a medical examination. The forms and instructions for this examination are issued by the visa office once the application has been submitted.

Requirements for the sponsor

To qualify for a Super Visa, the child or grandchild inviting their parent or grandparent will need to demonstrate that their household meets the required Low Income Cut-Off (LICO). This evidence may include the following documents:

• A Notice of Assessment (NOA) or T4/T1 for the most recent tax year.
• Employment insurance slips.
• An employment letter including the salary and date of hire.
• Payslips.
• Bank statements.

The Low Income Cut-Off (LICO)

Find out more about the Super Visa on the government website athere.