Canada is one of the most family-friendly countries in the world, and it offers several ways for families to stay connected across borders. Among these, the Super Visa Canada program stands out as an excellent option for parents and grandparents who wish to visit their loved ones for extended periods. Designed to promote family reunification, the Super Visa allows eligible parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time, with the visa itself being valid for up to ten years.
If you’re planning to apply for a Super Visa, it’s essential to understand the requirements, documentation, and process involved. This comprehensive checklist will guide you step-by-step through the application process, ensuring that your submission is complete and accurate — increasing your chances of approval.
Step 1: Understand What the Super Visa Is
Before diving into the checklist, it’s important to know what makes the Super Visa unique.
Unlike a regular visitor visa, which typically allows stays of up to six months, the Super Visa Canada program grants parents and grandparents extended stays without the need for frequent renewals. It’s a multi-entry visa, meaning you can leave and return to Canada multiple times within its validity period.
Key Benefits of the Super Visa:
- Stay in Canada for up to five years per visit without renewing your status.
- Enjoy multiple entries for up to ten years.
- Faster processing times compared to permanent residency options.
- Designed specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
This makes the Super Visa an ideal choice for families who want to spend more quality time together without the long waiting periods or commitments of immigration programs.
Step 2: Check Eligibility Requirements
Eligibility is the foundation of a successful application. Both the applicant (parent or grandparent) and the host (child or grandchild in Canada) must meet certain criteria.
Applicant Requirements:
- Must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Must be outside Canada when applying.
- Must have a letter of invitation from your child or grandchild in Canada.
- Must undergo a medical exam by an approved panel physician.
- Must have medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company with at least $100,000 coverage valid for one year.
- Must show strong ties to your home country (such as property ownership, financial stability, or family obligations).
Host Requirements:
- Must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Must provide a written invitation letter confirming the relationship and promising financial support during the visit.
- Must meet the minimum income requirements (LICO) to prove financial ability to support the visitor.
Checking these requirements carefully before applying saves time and ensures that your documents align with Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) standards.
Step 3: Gather Required Documents
The Super Visa application process is document-heavy. Missing or incorrect paperwork is one of the most common reasons for delays or refusals.
Here’s your complete Super Visa Canada checklist of required documents:
From the Applicant (Parent or Grandparent):
- Valid Passport: Must be valid for the duration of your stay.
- Photographs: Recent passport-size photos that meet IRCC specifications.
- Proof of Relationship: Birth certificates, family registry, or official documents linking you to your child or grandchild.
- Purpose of Travel Letter: A short letter explaining your reason for visiting and your plans during the stay.
- Proof of Financial Ties to Home Country: Bank statements, property documents, or employment letters.
- Medical Insurance Proof: Insurance from a Canadian provider with a minimum coverage of CAD $100,000 for at least one year.
- Medical Exam Report: Completed by an IRCC-approved panel physician.
- Application Form (IMM 5257): The Visitor Visa application form.
- Family Information Form (IMM 5645): Detailing family members.
From the Host (Child or Grandchild in Canada):
- Invitation Letter: Detailing your relationship, purpose of visit, duration of stay, and assurance of financial support.
- Proof of Status in Canada: Copy of Canadian passport, PR card, or citizenship certificate.
- Proof of Income: Most recent Notice of Assessment (NOA), T4 or T1 forms, or employment letter.
- Proof of Address: Recent utility bill or lease agreement.
- Letter of Financial Support: A written commitment to support your stay in Canada.
Having all documents organized before submission prevents processing delays and strengthens your case.
Step 4: Verify Financial Requirements
One of the most crucial parts of the Super Visa application is proof of sufficient income from the host in Canada. The IRCC uses the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) chart to determine if the sponsor can financially support their parents or grandparents during their stay.
Current LICO Threshold (Example):
| Family Size | Minimum Gross Income (Approx.) |
| 1 person (host only) | $29,000 |
| 2 persons | $36,500 |
| 3 persons | $45,000 |
| 4 persons | $54,000 |
| 5 persons | $61,000 |
| 6 persons | $69,000 |
| 7 persons | $77,000 |
| Each additional person | +$8,000 |
(Figures are approximate and change annually. Check the latest LICO table on the IRCC website before applying.)
If the host’s income does not meet the threshold, they can include their spouse’s income in the application by providing proof of shared finances and a joint letter of support.
Step 5: Purchase Medical Insurance
Medical insurance is mandatory for a Super Visa Canada application. You must purchase coverage from a Canadian insurance company for at least one year, with a minimum of CAD $100,000 coverage.
Your policy must include:
- Coverage for health care, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- Validity for a minimum of one year from the date of entry.
- Proof of full payment (quotes or unpaid invoices are not accepted).
Many insurance providers in Canada, such as Manulife, Sun Life, or Canada Life, offer plans specifically designed for Super Visa applicants.
Step 6: Complete the Medical Exam
A medical examination by an IRCC-approved panel physician is required to ensure applicants are admissible on health grounds.
Steps to follow:
- Book your exam with an IRCC-designated panel physician (find one on the IRCC website).
- Bring identification, eyeglasses (if any), and past medical records.
- After your exam, the doctor will send the report directly to IRCC and provide you with a confirmation document to include in your application.
Note that medical results are valid for 12 months, so time your exam accordingly.
Step 7: Fill Out and Submit the Application
You can apply online through the IRCC website or on paper (though online applications are faster).
Key steps:
- Create an IRCC account and fill out the IMM 5257 form.
- Upload all supporting documents.
- Pay the processing fee (CAD $100) and biometrics fee (CAD $85) if applicable.
- Submit your application and wait for instructions on biometrics and medical exams (if not already completed).
Make sure all details are accurate and consistent with your supporting documents. Inconsistencies are a common reason for refusal.
Step 8: Provide Biometrics
After submitting your application, you’ll receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter from IRCC. You must provide fingerprints and a photograph at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country.
Biometrics are valid for 10 years, so if you’ve already provided them for a previous Canadian visa, you may not need to do it again.
Step 9: Wait for a Decision
Super Visa processing times vary depending on your country of residence but typically range between 6 to 12 weeks. You can track the status of your application online.
If approved, your passport will be stamped with a multi-entry Super Visa valid for up to ten years.
If refused, review the reason carefully, correct any issues, and consider reapplying with additional supporting documents.
Step 10: Prepare for Travel to Canada
Once approved, it’s time to plan your visit. Make sure to carry all essential documents when traveling, including:
- Passport with Super Visa
- Proof of medical insurance
- Invitation letter and proof of relationship
- Proof of funds (if required)
Upon arrival, a border services officer will verify your documents and may ask questions about your visit. Once cleared, you can stay in Canada for up to five years without needing an extension.
Step 11: Renewal and Extension Options
If you wish to stay longer than the authorized five years, you can apply for an extension of your stay from within Canada. Extensions are usually granted for an additional two years if you maintain valid medical insurance and meet eligibility criteria.
Final Tips for a Successful Super Visa Application
- Double-check all documents before submission.
- Ensure income and insurance requirements are met.
- Avoid incomplete forms or missing signatures.
- Apply early, especially before peak travel seasons.
- Consult a licensed immigration consultant if you need professional guidance.
The Super Visa Canada is one of the most rewarding pathways for family reunification, offering parents and grandparents the opportunity to enjoy precious time with their loved ones. By following this ultimate checklist, you’ll make your application process smoother, faster, and more likely to succeed.
