Overview
The Super Visa lets parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents visit family for extended periods. It is a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 10 years, allowing stays of up to five years per entry, and holders may apply to extend by up to two more years while in Canada. Applicants need a letter of invitation, proof that their host meets the income threshold, and private medical insurance from an approved insurer.
Who it’s for
- Parents and grandparents who want to spend long periods with family in Canada
- Families waiting for — or not invited in — the Parents and Grandparents Program
- Grandparents who want to be close to their grandchildren for extended visits
Key requirements
- Parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- A signed letter of invitation from your child or grandchild, promising financial support and listing the people in their household
- Proof that your child or grandchild's household income meets the minimum threshold for its size, including you
- Private medical insurance from a Canadian insurer or an eligible foreign insurer, valid for at least one year from entry
- An immigration medical exam with an IRCC panel physician
- Apply from outside Canada and meet general visitor requirements, including admissibility and ties to your home country
How it works
- 01
Check eligibility
We confirm the family relationship, review your host's income documents and plan the timing of your visit.
- 02
Arrange insurance & medicals
We help you choose a compliant insurance policy and book your immigration medical exam with an IRCC panel physician.
- 03
Prepare the invitation package
We draft a clear letter of invitation and organize your host's proof of status, household details and income documents.
- 04
Submit your application
We file your Super Visa application online and guide you through biometrics and any requests from IRCC.
- 05
Travel & extend if needed
Once approved, you can travel to Canada. If you wish to stay longer, we can help you apply to extend your stay from inside Canada.
Advantages
- Stay up to five years per entry, compared with the usual six months for visitors
- A multiple-entry visa valid for up to 10 years
- Since 2023, insurance can come from eligible foreign insurers as well as Canadian companies
- Available year-round, unlike the invitation-based Parents and Grandparents Program
Good to know
- Super Visa holders are visitors — they cannot work in Canada and are generally not covered by provincial health insurance.
- Insurance must remain valid for each entry, and your host must meet the income threshold at the time you apply.
- A Super Visa does not lead to permanent residence on its own — the Parents and Grandparents Program is the permanent route.
FAQ
How long can my parents stay on a Super Visa?
Up to five years per entry, and they may be able to apply to extend by up to two more years while in Canada. The visa itself can be valid for up to 10 years.
What insurance is required?
Private medical insurance from a Canadian insurer or an eligible foreign insurer, covering health care, hospitalization and repatriation for at least one year from entry. We check that your policy meets IRCC's current requirements.
Can both parents apply together?
Yes. A parent can include their spouse or common-law partner in the same application, but other dependants cannot be included.
Last reviewed: October 2026. This page provides general information, not legal advice. Immigration rules change often — we confirm the latest requirements for your situation during your consultation.