A Super Visa Canada is a relatively new immigration initiative by the Canadian government to reunite families. Introduced in December 2011, it is a long-term visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit them for up to five years at a single stretch, and stay in the country for up to tens years without renewing their visa. The idea behind Super Visa is to extend the benefits of family reunification without adding too much burden on social services in the country, as well as facilitate Canadian businesses by allowing parents and grandparents of immigrants to invest in the Canadian economy.

The Super Visa program is a clear indication of the Canadian government’s intention to keep families together. A recent report by Canada’s Minister of Immigration estimated that, by 2036, 13 million working-age Canadians will have retired, most of whom will need support from their families as they age. The report also emphasized the positive impact of family reunification on the well-being and acculturation of new immigrants. Hence, Super Visa is not only a visa program, but a long-term social policy to ensure that Canadian families remain intact.

The process of applying for a Super Visa may seem daunting, but with the help of a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer, it can be relatively easy. The eligibility criteria for Super Visa requires that the applicant be a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, prove that they have sufficient funds to support themselves in Canada and meet some of the other requirements. These requirements include a clean medical history and adequate medical insurance coverage while in Canada.

The medical insurance coverage is one of the most important requirements for Super Visa applications. It is mandatory for applicants to prove that they have private medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company that is valid for a minimum of one year, and covers at least CAD 100,000 in case of emergency medical needs. This is because Super Visa holders are not covered under Canada’s public health care system, but are expected to make their own arrangements for medical needs, even in emergency situations. Additionally, Super Visa holders are expected to leave Canada within the validity period of their visa, which is usually 10 years, to maintain their status.

Super Visa provides a fantastic opportunity for families to be with their loved ones, even if they have not migrated to Canada. The program is highly popular and highly esteemed, as it allows parents and grandparents of immigrants to stay in Canada for an extended period, which contributes to the social fabric of society as well as the development of the Canadian economy. It would be an understatement to say that Super Visa is a game-changer for all parties involved: it is truly exceptional.

Eligibility for Super Visa

To be eligible to apply for Super Visa, you must meet the criteria:

1.Be a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
2. Have sufficient funds available and ties to their home country such as a job, family or property.
3. Be in good health and willing to complete an upfront medical examination.
4. Obtain medical insurance (Min Coverage CAD $ 100,000) from a Canadian insurance company having a validity of at least one year.
5. Invitation Letter from your child or grandchild, who is inviting you to Canada.
6. Proof that your child or grandchild’s household meets the minimum necessary income.

For more details please contact our senior immigration consultants and advisors.