The Canadian Super Visa is a special multiple-entry visa designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Unlike a regular visitor visa that limits stays to 6 months, the Super Visa allows stays of up to 5 years per visit and can be valid for up to 10 years. It is one of the most generous parent visit programs in the world and is significantly faster to process than the permanent Parents and Grandparents Program.
Super Visa vs Regular Visitor Visa vs PGP
Regular Visitor Visa
Maximum stay of 6 months per entry. Valid for up to 10 years. No Canadian health insurance required. Lower income requirements for the inviting child.
Super Visa
Maximum stay of 5 years per entry. Valid for up to 10 years. Requires Canadian health insurance covering at least $100,000. Child or grandchild must meet minimum income thresholds.
Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)
The PGP is a permanent residence pathway, unlike the temporary Super Visa. Intake methods, invitation rules, processing estimates, and eligibility can change, so review the current IRCC program page before planning around it.
Super Visa Eligibility Requirements
For the Parent or Grandparent
Must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Must be admissible to Canada (no serious criminal history, no serious health conditions that are a danger to public health). Must have Canadian health insurance covering at least $100,000 for at least 1 year.
For the Canadian Child or Grandchild
Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. Must meet the minimum necessary income requirement. In 2026 the income thresholds are approximately $36,000 for a family of 2, $44,000 for a family of 3, and $54,000 for a family of 4.
Required Documents
From the Parent or Grandparent
Valid passport, completed application forms (IMM 5257 and IMM 5645), recent passport photos, proof of Canadian health insurance (minimum $100,000 coverage), biometrics if required.
From the Canadian Host
Proof of Canadian citizenship or PR status, proof of income (Notice of Assessment from CRA, T4 slips, or employment letter with salary), letter of invitation confirming the parent is welcome to stay and will be supported.
Canadian Health Insurance for Super Visa
The Super Visa requires private Canadian health insurance with minimum $100,000 coverage for at least 1 year. Major providers include Manulife Super Visa Insurance, Blue Cross Visitor Insurance, Sun Life, and GMS Insurance. Costs range from $1,500 to $3,000 per year depending on age and health of the parent. Premiums are refundable if the visa is refused or if the parent returns home early.
Money-saving tip: Compare Super Visa insurance quotes from multiple providers. Rates vary significantly. A healthy 60-year-old parent pays approximately $1,800 to $2,200 per year. A parent over 70 with pre-existing conditions can pay $3,000 to $5,000 per year. Shop around before purchasing.
How to Apply for a Super Visa
Purchase Canadian health insurance
Buy a minimum $100,000 policy from a Canadian insurer. Keep the insurance certificate as a required document.
Gather all documents
Collect all required documents from both the parent and the Canadian host. Ensure income documents are current (within the last 12 months).
Apply online at canada.ca
Create or log in to your IRCC account and complete the visitor visa application. Indicate you are applying for a Super Visa and upload all documents.
Provide biometrics
Visit a Visa Application Centre to provide biometrics after receiving your Biometric Instruction Letter.
Wait for processing
Super Visa processing times are typically 4 to 8 weeks depending on the country. Apply well in advance of planned travel dates.
Written and reviewed by the GuideCAN Editorial Team
Editorially reviewed against IRCC guidance. This article is general information, not immigration or legal advice.
Official sources
Official rules, fees, deadlines and program availability can change. Confirm the current details before acting.