SUPER VISA FOR PARENTS AND GRANDPARENTS
For many newcomers to Canada, one of the hardest parts of immigration is being far from their loved ones. Parents and grandparents often play an essential role in family life — helping with children, sharing traditions, and offering emotional support. To make family reunification easier, the Super Visa allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to invite their parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for extended periods — without the need for frequent renewals or reapplications.
WHAT IS THE SUPER VISA?
The Super Visa is a multi-entry visa valid for up to 10 years, which allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit (previously 2 years before 2022). This makes it an excellent alternative for families who want to spend more time together without waiting for the Parent and Grandparent Sponsorship Program (PGP), which has limited spots each year. If your parents or grandparents only plan to visit for short stays (less than 6 months), a visitor visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) may still be appropriate.
WHY THE SUPER VISA IS A GREAT OPTION
Extended stay: Up to 5 consecutive years in Canada per entry.
Multiple entries: The visa is valid for up to 10 years. Faster process: Generally processed more quickly than sponsorship applications.
Family reunification: Ideal for families waiting for sponsorship draws or seeking long-term visits.
Emotional and cultural support: Parents and grandparents can participate in family life and provide stability for children.
ELIGIBILITY REQUIREMENTS FOR THE SUPER VISA
To be eligible, the applicant must:
1.Be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
2. Apply for the visa from outside Canada.
3. Be admissible to Canada (no medical or security concerns).
4.Take an immigration medical exam.
5. Meet other standard entry conditions set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Required documents:
The child or grandchild in Canada must provide:
A signed invitation letter that includes:
⤍ A promise of financial support during the visitor’s stay.
⤍ A list of household members.
⤍ Proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residence.
Proof of income showing that the household meets the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI), based on the size of the family.
Medical insurance from a Canadian company that is:
⤍ Valid for at least one year from the date of entry.
⤍ Provides minimum coverage of $100,000 CAD.
⤍ Fully paid (quotes are not accepted).
Note: Applicants living in Quebec must meet the province’s own financial requirements assessed by the Ministère de l’Immigration, de la Francisation et de l’Intégration (MIFI). MINIMUM INCOME REQUIREMENTS To qualify as a host, the sponsor must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI), which is updated annually by IRCC. Below is the current guideline (as of 2025):
MINIMUM INCOME REQUIREMENTS
To qualify as a host, the sponsor must meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI), which is updated annually by IRCC.
Family Size Minimum Income Required (CAD)
2 persons $47,630
3 persons $58,000
4 persons $70,0005 persons $80,500
6 persons $91,000
7 persons $101,500
Each additional person +$10,000
(Values approximate based on 2025 Low Income Cut-Off [LICO] + 30%.)
PROCESSING TIME AND APPLICATION METHOD
Super Visa applications must be submitted online through IRCC’s official portal. Processing times vary by country but generally range from 8 to 12 weeks. Applicants should gather all supporting documents, pay the visa fee, and complete a biometric enrollment if required.
SUPER VISA VS. PARENT SPONSORSHIP PROGRAM (PGP)
FINAL THOUGHTS
The Super Visa program represents one of Canada’s most family-friendly policies, helping bridge emotional distance while maintaining flexibility. It allows families to stay connected, share cultural traditions, and create lasting memories together in Canada. If you want your parents or grandparents to spend more time with you in Canada, the Super Visa may be the perfect option. It’s fast, flexible, and family-oriented. At Global Opportunities, our licensed immigration consultants can help you determine eligibility, prepare documentation, and guide you step by step through the Super Visa application process. Contact us today for a personalized assessment and start reuniting your family in Canada.