Key Takeaways:
- The Canada Super Visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay for up to 5 years.
- Applicants must undergo a medical exam and meet specific criteria more extensive than standard visitor visas.
- Super Visa holders are prohibited from working, studying, or accessing Canadian benefits like health care during their stay.
Are you hoping to bring your parents or grandparents for a long visit to Canada without the hassle of having to renew their stay every six months? The Canadian Super Visa could be the perfect solution for you and your family. Designed specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, this visa enables extended family stays, making long visits not just possible but comfortably manageable. Our guide offers you all the details you need to navigate the application process, understand the requirements, and plan for an extended family reunion under Canada’s generous Super Visa program.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the ins and outs of the Super Visa—often referred to as the Parent Visa or the Parent and Grandparent Super Visa. It’s a part of the Temporary Resident Visas and allows prolonged visits, unlike the regular visitor visa which is capped at a much shorter duration. This unique visa enables parents and grandparents to stay with their relatives in Canada for up to five years per entry. We will explore how this visa differs from others, what eligibility criteria need to be met, and the essential rules that applicants must follow once in Canada. Keep reading to discover how you can bring your loved ones closer for longer.
Super Visa Canada: A Comprehensive Guide
Discover everything you need to know about the Canada Super Visa, specifically designed for parents and grandparents wishing to visit their family members in Canada. This guide covers the application process, eligibility requirements, and key details to aid your journey.
Understanding the Canada Super Visa
The Super Visa, alternatively known as the Parent Visa or the Parent and Grandparent Super Visa, falls under the category of Temporary Resident Visas. Here’s what makes it special:
- Purpose: It enables parents and grandparents to visit their children and grandchildren who are either Canadian Permanent Residents or Citizens.
- Duration: Unlike a regular Canadian Visitor Visa, the Super Visa allows for extended stays. Eligible parents and grandparents can stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit.
- Restrictions: The visa does not permit employment or enrollment in any educational courses, whether part-time or full-time. Additionally, recipients cannot seek Canadian public benefits like health care coverage.
Requirements and Application Process
To obtain a Super Visa, interested individuals must meet specific criteria set by Canadian immigration authorities. These include proving their relationship to their Canadian relatives and demonstrating financial stability, among other requirements.
Notable Highlights
- “The Super Visa was created to lengthen the time that parents and grandparents could stay with their loved ones in Canada.”
- Applicants are required to remain as visitors only, focusing on family reunification and travel within Canada without engaging in employment or academic pursuits.
This guide serves as an essential resource for those looking to reconnect with their family in Canada under the Super Visa program, providing a longer and more fulfilling visit compared to regular visitor visas.
Super Visa Eligibility Criteria for Parents and Grandparents
The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for extended periods. Due to its extended stay provision, the eligibility requirements are more rigorous compared to the standard visitor visa. Here’s what you need to know about the eligibility criteria:
- Additional Requirements: Beyond the standard criteria for all Temporary Resident Visas in Canada, Super Visa applicants must undergo a comprehensive medical examination.
- Evaluation Process: If applicants fail to meet these requirements, the Canadian Consulate may request further evidence to prove eligibility.
- Potential Denial: Failure to provide the necessary proof of eligibility may result in the denial of the Super Visa application. As stated, “If you cannot prove that you are eligible, then they will deny your Super visa.”
Understanding and complying with these requirements increases the likelihood of a successful application.
How to Complete the Super Visa Application
To successfully apply for a Super Visa to Canada, you must follow several detailed steps. Below is a comprehensive guide to navigating this process:
1. Confirm Your Eligibility for a Super Visa
Ensure you meet all the criteria necessary for a Super Visa application.
2. Compile the Documentation
Gather all required documents as mentioned in the below section of “Required Documents” and complete the application forms specific to the Canada Super Visa.
3. Submit the Super Visa Application
Submit your completed application to the appropriate authorities.
4. Wait for Processing
Be patient as your application is processed. Be prepared to provide additional information if requested.
5. Send Your Passport for Stamping
Once approved, you will need to send your passport to get the Super Visa stamp.
Required Documents for the Canada Super Visa
When applying for a Super Visa, you will need to submit both standard and specific supporting documents, including:
- General documents required for any Canadian visa
- Financial statements proving sufficient funds for your visit
- A travel itinerary or plans for your stay in Canada
- A letter of invitation from your child or grandchild residing in Canada
- Proof of relationship with your child or grandchild (e.g., birth certificate)
- Documentation confirming the immigration status of your child or grandchild in Canada
- Financial documents of your child or grandchild demonstrating they meet the Low-Income Cut-Off minimum
- Latest Notice of Assessment
- Most recent T4 or T1 form
- Letter from employer detailing job title, role, and salary
- Employment insurance pay stubs
- Accountant verification of income (if self-employed)
- Proof of other income sources (investments, pensions, etc.)
- A declaration letter addressed to the Government of Canada expressing your reasons for requesting a Super Visa
- Two passport photos meeting the Canadian photo requirements
- Information on your employment or educational status (resume, diplomas, employer’s letter regarding contractual obligations)
- Evidence supporting your intention to return to your home country (lease, property deeds, etc.)
- Documents affirming you will not work or study in Canada
- Proof of private medical insurance from a Canadian company covering health care, repatriation, and hospitalization, valid for at least one year with minimum coverage of $100,000, valid for each entry into Canada
After gathering all required documents, proceed with submitting the Super Visa application and pay any applicable fees.
Required Documents for a Regular Canada Visa
For a standard Canada visa, the required documentation includes:
- Valid passport
- The appropriate Canada visa application form
- Receipts for paid visa application fees
- Criminal record check results
- Medical exam results confirming good health
- Photos that comply with Canada’s visa photo requirements
- Proof of financial means
- Evidence ensuring your return to your home country after the visa expires
- Identity and Civil Status Documents
- A cover letter explaining the purpose of your travel to Canada
- Letter of support or invitation to Canada
Age Considerations:
The visa requirements can vary based on the applicant’s age. Only adults (aged 18 and above) can be primary applicants, while minors (17 and under) must be listed as dependents.
By detailing each phase and document requirement, applicants can better manage their applications, increasing the likelihood of a smooth and successful entry into Canada.
Understanding the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) Requirement for Hosting in Canada
When your children or grandchildren are planning to host you in Canada, they must meet the Low Income Cut Off (LICO) criteria. This is a financial threshold established to ensure they have sufficient resources to support your stay. Here’s what you need to know about LICO:
Eligibility Requirements:
- Your children or grandchildren must calculate the number of dependents in their household. This includes anyone they’re financially responsible for, plus any other individuals they may have already sponsored.
- They need to include you as an additional dependent when you arrive in Canada.
- They must demonstrate that they have adequate funds to support everyone in their family unit.
Required Minimum Income:
The following table outlines the annual income that your child or grandchild needs based on the size of their family:
- 1 person (your child or grandchild): $24,949
- 2 persons: $31,061
- 3 persons: $38,185
- 4 persons: $46,362
- 5 persons: $52,583
- 6 persons: $59,304
- 7 persons: $66,027
- For more than 7 persons: Add an additional $6,723 for each extra person
Combining Incomes:
If your child or grandchild’s income alone does not meet the required threshold, they can combine their income with that of their spouse or common-law partner.
By understanding these financial requirements, your family can plan accordingly to ensure they meet the criteria for hosting you in Canada. It’s essential they prove that they have the financial ability to support your stay, so planning is crucial.
Super Visa Fees
When applying for a Super Visa, applicants need to be aware of the various fees involved:
- Visa Application Fee: CAD$100
- Biometrics Processing Fee: CAD$85
- Passport Processing Fee: Approximately CAD$45 (incurred when sending your passport for processing)
Super Visa Processing Time
The processing time for a Super Visa varies based on the applicant’s country of origin. Applicants should expect a processing time ranging from:
- Minimum: 8 days
- Maximum: 45 to 50 days
Validity of the Super Visa
Unlike a regular Visitor Visa, the Super Visa has a longer validity period:
- Initial Validity: 2 years
- Upon entry, it is crucial to ensure that the Border Patrol Officer confirms this two-year period by stamping the passport accordingly.
After the initial two-year period, holders of a Super Visa can apply for an extension within Canada, provided they submit their application at least:
- Six Months Before Expiry: This timeline is crucial to avoid lapses in visa status.
Bringing Dependents on a Super Visa
The Super Visa allows certain family members to accompany the primary visa holder:
- Allowed: Spouse or common-law partner
- Not Allowed: Other children or grandchildren (who must apply separately for a Visitor Visa)
This clarity on who can accompany the visa holder avoids confusion and ensures that families plan their visits in accordance with Canadian immigration policies.
For individuals looking to apply for a Canada Super Visa, it is important to access accurate and official information. Below is a comprehensive list of essential resources directly related to obtaining a Super Visa for Canada, which includes government websites, necessary forms, and authoritative guides to assist in the application process:
Official Government Resources
- Government of Canada – Immigration and Citizenship
- Main website: Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
- This is the principal source for all immigration-related services, including visa applications and guidelines.
- Super Visa Information Page
- Specific information on Super Visa: Parent and Grandparent Super Visa
- Here you will find detailed information on requirements, eligibility, and the application process for the Super Visa.
Application Forms and Guides
- Application Form for a Temporary Resident Visa
- Download the form: Application for Temporary Resident Visa (IMM 5257)
- The Super Visa is a type of Temporary Resident Visa; this form is necessary for the application.
- Document Checklist for Super Visa
- Checklist form: Document Checklist — Super Visa (IMM 5721)
- This checklist will help ensure that you have all the required documents before submitting your application.
- Family Information Form
- Fill out the form: Family Information (IMM 5645)
- This form is used to provide details about your family to support your application.
Financial Requirements and Proof
- Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) Table
- View LICO requirements: Income Table
- This table is critical for understanding the financial thresholds necessary for the Super Visa application.
Health Insurance Coverage
- Guidance on Medical Insurance
- General information is available through various Canadian insurance brokers who specialize in health insurance for visitors to Canada.
Other Relevant Links
- Applying for a Visitor Visa – Step by Step Guide
- Step-by-Step Guide: Visit Canada as a Tourist
- Although tailored to standard visitor visas, some steps are relevant for the Super Visa application.
- Pay Your Fees for Visa
- Payment portal: Pay your fees online
- All fees related to the Canada Super Visa application can be paid through this official portal.
- Biometrics Collection Guide
- Biometrics guide: Biometrics – How to give your fingerprints and photo
- Most visa applications require biometrics; this page provides information on where and how to provide them.
By utilizing these official resources, applicants can effectively prepare and submit their Super Visa applications, ensuring all requirements are met and thereby increasing the likelihood of approval.
