What Is the Canada Super Visa?
The Super Visa is a long-term, multiple-entry visa exclusively for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. Unlike a standard visitor visa (maximum 6 months per entry), the Super Visa allows stays of up to 5 years per visit and is valid for up to 10 years (or until passport expiry). It is an alternative to the Parent & Grandparent Program (PGP) sponsorship, which has a long waitlist.
*As of July 3, 2026, IRCC reduced Super Visa processing time for Indian applicants to 50 days.
💰 LICO Income Requirement Checker
The host (Canadian citizen/PR) must earn at least 100% of the LICO (Low Income Cut-Off) threshold based on total family size — including the visiting parent/grandparent.
📊 2026 LICO Reference Table
| Family Size | Minimum Income Required (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $26,620 |
| 2 | $33,127 |
| 3 | $40,742 |
| 4 | $49,466 |
| 5 | $56,104 |
| 6 | $63,276 |
| 7 (or more) | $70,545 |
Mandatory Medical Insurance Requirements
| Requirement | Minimum Standard |
|---|---|
| Coverage Amount | $100,000 CAD in emergency medical coverage (hospital, surgery, repatriation) |
| Provider | Must be a Canadian insurance company or authorized foreign provider. Foreign-only policies are generally not accepted. |
| Validity | Valid for at least 1 year from date of entry into Canada |
| Proof Required | Policy must be fully paid and insurance letter submitted with application. Quotes or unpaid policies are NOT accepted. |
| Pre-Existing Conditions | Declare all pre-existing conditions — coverage varies by insurer. Stable conditions (90–180 days) may be covered under some plans. |
Application Steps for the Parent/Grandparent
- Host Writes Invitation Letter:
The Canadian citizen or PR child/grandchild writes a formal invitation letter committing to financial support. Must include their status proof, income proof (NOA), and family details.
- Purchase Medical Insurance:
Buy a Canadian medical insurance policy for at least $100,000 CAD, fully paid, valid for 1 year from planned entry. Obtain the policy letter/certificate (not just a quote).
- Parent Completes Medical Examination:
Schedule and complete the immigration medical examination (IME) with an IRCC panel physician in your home country. Results are sent directly to IRCC.
- Gather All Documents:
Passport, photos, IME receipt, insurance certificate, host's invitation letter + income proof (last 2 NOAs), host's citizenship/PR document, relationship proof (birth/marriage certificates).
- Apply Online or at VAC/Embassy:
Apply online through IRCC's portal or in person at a Visa Application Centre (VAC) in your country. Pay visa fee: $100 CAD + biometrics: $85 CAD.
- Biometrics Appointment:
Attend a biometrics collection appointment at your local VAC within 30 days of the IRCC request.
- Wait for Decision:
India: ~50 days (as of July 2026). Other countries vary. You can check application status on IRCC's online portal.
🔗 Useful Links & Official References
💡 Super Visa vs PGP Sponsorship
| Super Visa | PGP | |
|---|---|---|
| Wait Time | ~50–90 days | Years (lottery) |
| Max Stay | 5 yrs/visit | Permanent |
| Insurance | Required | Not required |
| Work Rights | No | Yes |
| Medicare | No (private) | Yes |
Super Visa Insurance Guide
Compare private Super Visa insurance options for parents with pre-existing conditions, monthly payment plans, and best Canadian insurers.
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