Who the Super Visa is for
#- Parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens or PRs
- Families seeking long-term visits instead of permanent residence
Eligibility nuances
#Only parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents qualify.
Applicants must meet medical insurance and host income requirements.
Official IRCC guidance to review
#Use the official IRCC guidance before applying for a Canada visa or permit.
Canada visa requirements checklist
#- Invitation letter and proof of relationship
- Minimum income from the host (LICO requirement)
- Valid medical insurance for the required coverage period
- Medical exam and admissibility requirements
- Biometrics if required
Documents and evidence (IRCC checklist)
#- Invitation letter and proof of host status in Canada
- Proof of income and insurance policy documents
- Evidence of relationship to the host (birth certificates, etc.)
- Passport, biometrics, and medical exam results
Comparing options? Review Family Sponsorship and Visitor Visa (TRV) before you finalize your Canada visa pathway.
Canada documents checklistCanada visa application steps
#- Gather income proof and purchase eligible medical insurance.
- Apply online and submit biometrics.
- Complete a medical exam and wait for a decision.
- Travel once the visa is issued and follow entry conditions.
If this pathway doesn’t fit, compare Family Sponsorship and Visitor Visa (TRV) before you finalize your plan.
Canada processing times
#Processing times depend on program, country of residence, and application completeness. Processing times vary by country and season.
IRCC processing times toolCommon mistakes that cause delays
#- Insufficient proof of income for the host
- Insurance that does not meet IRCC requirements
- Missing evidence of relationship to the host
- Not completing the required medical exam before travel
Common misconceptions
#- A Super Visa is the same as permanent residence.
- Medical insurance is optional.
- A Super Visa guarantees entry at the border.
Next steps
#Use Find My Visa to build a sequenced plan with official sources and deadlines.
FAQs
Does a Super Visa lead to permanent residence?
No. The Super Visa is a temporary resident visa for extended visits, not permanent residence.
Is medical insurance mandatory?
Yes. Applicants must show proof of qualifying medical insurance that meets IRCC requirements.
Can I use Super Visa instead of family sponsorship?
The Super Visa is for long-term visits only. Family sponsorship is a permanent residence pathway.
Do Super Visa applicants need a medical exam?
Yes. IRCC requires a medical exam for Super Visa applicants as part of admissibility.
Sources
Last reviewed: 2026-01-30
VisaMind provides informational guidance only and is not a government agency. This is not legal advice. Requirements can change and eligibility depends on your specific facts. If your case is complex or high-stakes, consult a licensed immigration attorney.
Requirements vary by nationality, purpose, timeline, and case details. VisaMind turns uncertainty into a sequenced checklist with official source citations.
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