To visit Canada for short periods, individuals often require a Temporary Canada Visa. Among these visas, there exists a specialized category catering to different purposes of visit, one of which is the Super Visa for parents and grandparents.
What is the Canada Super Visa?
The Canada Super Visa, also known as the Parent Visa or Parent and Grandparent Super Visa, falls under the Temporary Resident Visas. This visa allows close relatives to visit their Canadian Permanent Resident or Citizen children and grandchildren for an extended period, up to 2 years at a time.
Eligibility Criteria for the Super Visa
Given the extended stay allowed by the Super Visa, the eligibility criteria are more extensive than those for a regular visitor visa. In addition to standard Temporary Resident Visa requirements, applicants must undergo a medical examination to qualify for the Super Visa.
Super Visa Application Process
The Super Visa application involves several steps:
- Confirm Eligibility: Ensure you meet the criteria for a Super Visa.
- Compile Documents: Gather necessary documents and complete application forms.
- Submit Application: Send the Super Visa Application for processing.
- Wait for Processing: Allow time for processing and respond to any additional requests for information.
- Passport Stamping: Once approved, submit your passport for visa stamping.
Document Requirements for Super Visa Canada
Applicants must submit various supporting documents alongside the Super Visa application, including:
- Standard documents required for any Canadian visa.
- Financial statements demonstrating sufficient funds.
- Travel itinerary or plans for the visit.
- Letter of invitation from the child or grandchild in Canada.
- Proof of relationship, immigration status, and financial stability of the host in Canada.
- Declaration letter explaining the need for a Super Visa.
- Photos complying with Canada’s photo guidelines.
- Employment or education status confirmation.
- Proof of private medical insurance valid for a minimum of one year.
Meeting the Low-Income Cut Off Point
Hosts (children or grandchildren) must meet the Low Income Cut Off (LICO) to sponsor their parents or grandparents. This involves demonstrating adequate funds for all dependents. The required minimum funds vary based on the number of dependents in the household.
The Super Visa process ensures a comprehensive assessment to facilitate a meaningful and extended visit for parents and grandparents to Canada.
The minimal annual income required for your child or grandchild, depending on the number of dependents, is summarized in the table below.
| Size of family unit | Minimum income necessary |
| 1 person (your child or grandchild) | $24,949 |
| 2 persons | $31,061 |
| 3 persons | $38,185 |
| 4 persons | $46,362 |
| 5 persons | $52,583 |
| 6 persons | $59,304 |
| 7 persons | $66,027 |
| For more than 7 persons, add an additional for each person | $6,723 |
What is the processing time for a super visa?
The processing time for the Super Visa might range from 8 days to 45 or 50 days. Furthermore, the duration of the Super visa application process is contingent upon your country of origin.
How much time can you use a Super Visa?
The Super Visa is valid for two years at first, unlike the Visitor Visa. Make sure the Border Patrol Officer has stamped your passport with the two-year validity statement when you arrive at the point of entry.
You can apply for a second Super Visa from within Canada after two years. The application for an extension must be initiated at least six months prior to the expiration of the first Super Visa.
Can I use a Super Visa to bring my dependents into Canada?
You may only enter Canada with your spouse or common-law partner if you have a Super Visa and are visiting your child or grandchild.
