Loading...
Family Reunion Services
Canada Super Visa 2026
Bring your parents or grandparents to Canada for extended visits of up to 5 years. Learn about the Super Visa requirements, income thresholds (LICO), mandatory medical insurance, and complete application process.
Stay Duration
Up to 5 Years
Validity
Up to 10 Years
Application Fee
$100 CAD
Insurance
$100K Min
Complete Guide
What is the Canada Super Visa?
The Super Visa is a multi-entry visa specifically designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. Unlike a regular visitor visa that allows stays of up to 6 months, the Super Visa permits stays of up to 5 years at a time without the need to renew your status.
Introduced in 2011 and enhanced in 2022, the Super Visa is one of the most popular options for families who want to reunite with their parents or grandparents in Canada for extended periods. The visa can be valid for up to 10 years, allowing for multiple entries during that period.
The Super Visa requires that applicants have medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company and that their Canadian citizen or permanent resident child or grandchild meets specific income requirements. As of 2026, the program continues to be an excellent pathway for family reunification while the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) remains highly competitive with limited intake.
With recent changes, Super Visa holders can now stay for up to 5 years per entry (increased from 2 years), and they can extend their stay from inside Canada for up to 2 additional years at a time. This makes the Super Visa an increasingly attractive option for long-term family visits.
Key Benefits of the Super Visa
- Stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time without renewing status
- Multiple entries allowed during the visa validity period (up to 10 years)
- Ability to extend your stay from inside Canada for up to 2 additional years
- Faster processing compared to permanent residence applications
- Peace of mind with mandatory health insurance coverage
Ready to Bring Your Parents to Canada?
Our RCIC-licensed consultants specialize in Super Visa applications. We'll help you navigate income requirements, insurance options, and documentation.
Book ConsultationGet Document ChecklistRCIC License: R515110
Comparison
Super Visa vs Regular Visitor Visa
Understanding the key differences to choose the right option for your family
| Feature | Super Visa | Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Validity Period | Up to 10 years | Up to 10 years |
| Stay Duration per Entry | Up to 5 years | Up to 6 months |
| Multiple Entries | Yes | Yes (if multiple entry) |
| Medical Insurance Required | Yes (mandatory) | No (recommended) |
| Medical Exam Required | Yes | Sometimes |
| Income Requirements | Yes (LICO+30%) | No |
| Eligible Applicants | Parents & grandparents only | Anyone |
| Application Fee | $100 CAD | $100 CAD |
* The Super Visa is ideal for parents and grandparents planning extended stays in Canada
Requirements
Super Visa Eligibility Requirements
Both the applicant and the sponsor must meet specific requirements
You must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
Your child or grandchild must meet the minimum income requirement (LICO)
You must have valid medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company
Insurance must be valid for at least 1 year and provide minimum $100,000 coverage
You must undergo a medical examination
You must meet standard admissibility requirements for Canada
Income Requirements
Minimum Necessary Income (LICO) 2026
Your Canadian sponsor must meet these minimum income thresholds based on family size
| Total Family Size* | Minimum Necessary Income |
|---|---|
| 1 person | $29,380 |
| 2 persons | $36,576 |
| 3 persons | $44,966 |
| 4 persons | $54,594 |
| 5 persons | $61,920 |
| 6 persons | $69,834 |
| 7 persons | $77,750 |
| 7+ | +$7,916 for each additional person |
* Family size includes:
- The sponsor
- The sponsor's spouse or common-law partner
- The sponsor's dependent children
- The parent(s) or grandparent(s) being sponsored
- Any other person previously sponsored by the sponsor
The sponsor must provide their most recent Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) as proof of income.
Mandatory
Medical Insurance Requirements
All Super Visa applicants must have valid medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company
Must be purchased from a Canadian insurance company
Minimum coverage of $100,000
Valid for at least 1 year from date of entry
Must cover health care, hospitalization, and repatriation
Must be valid for each entry into Canada during the policy period
Proof of payment required with application
Important Insurance Notes
- •Insurance must be purchased BEFORE you submit your Super Visa application
- •You must show proof of insurance payment with your application
- •Border officers may verify your insurance upon entry to Canada
- •Annual insurance costs typically range from $1,500 to $3,000 depending on age and health
- •Pre-existing conditions may affect coverage and cost
Step by Step
How to Apply for a Super Visa
Follow these steps to successfully apply for the Canada Super Visa
1
Verify Sponsor Eligibility
Ensure your Canadian citizen or permanent resident child/grandchild meets the minimum necessary income (LICO) based on their family size. They must provide proof of income for the most recent tax year.
2
Purchase Medical Insurance
Buy medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company. Coverage must be valid for at least 1 year from entry date, provide minimum $100,000 coverage, and be valid for each entry during the policy period.
3
Complete Medical Examination
Book and complete a medical exam with an IRCC-approved panel physician. Keep your medical exam receipt as you'll need the information for your application.
4
Gather Required Documents
Collect all necessary documents including passport, photos, invitation letter from child/grandchild, proof of their income, proof of relationship, and insurance policy.
5
Submit Online Application
Create an IRCC online account, complete the application form, upload all documents, and pay the application fee. You may need to provide biometrics.
6
Track and Wait for Decision
Monitor your application status online. Processing times vary by country but typically range from a few weeks to several months. You may be asked for additional documents.
Documentation
Required Documents for Super Visa
Gather these documents before starting your Super Visa application
Valid passport (valid for duration of your intended stay)
Two recent passport-sized photos
Completed application forms (IMM 5257, IMM 5645)
Signed letter of invitation from child/grandchild in Canada
Proof of relationship (birth certificates, marriage certificates)
Proof of sponsor's Canadian status (citizenship certificate or PR card)
Proof of sponsor's income (Notice of Assessment, pay stubs, employment letter)
Medical insurance policy (minimum $100,000, valid 1 year)
Medical examination results
Biometrics (if required)
Purpose of visit explanation
Proof of ties to home country
Timeline
Processing Times by Country
Typical processing times for Super Visa applications (as of 2026)
India
60-120 daysPhilippines
60-90 daysChina
45-75 daysPakistan
90-150 daysIran
60-180 daysVietnam
45-90 daysNigeria
90-180 daysUnited States
30-60 days* Processing times are approximate and may vary. Check IRCC website for current processing times for your country.
Costs
Super Visa Fees and Costs
Budget for these costs when planning your Super Visa application
Super Visa Application Fee
$100 CADBiometrics Fee (if required)
$85 CADMedical Examination
$200-$450 CAD*Medical Insurance (annual)
$1,500-$3,000 CAD** Costs vary by provider, age, and health status. Fees are subject to change.
Extension Option
Extending Your Stay Inside Canada
If you're in Canada on a Super Visa and want to extend your stay beyond the period authorized by the border officer, you can apply for a visitor record (also called an extension of stay) from within Canada.
- Apply at least 30 days before your authorized stay expires
- You can request an extension of up to 6 months at a time
- Fee: $100 CAD per application
- Processing time: 60-120 days
- You can remain in Canada under "implied status" while waiting for a decision
- Maintain valid health insurance throughout your extended stay
Avoid These
Common Super Visa Application Mistakes
Insufficient insurance coverage or wrong insurance provider (must be Canadian company)
Medical exam done before purchasing insurance or submitting application
Missing or incomplete proof of sponsor's income (need Notice of Assessment)
Not including all family members when calculating LICO requirements
Providing invitation letter without proper sponsor information
Applying with passport that expires too soon
Inadequate proof of ties to home country
Not completing biometrics when required
FAQ
Frequently Asked Questions
Common questions about the Canada Super Visa
What is a Super Visa and who can apply?
The Super Visa is a special multi-entry visa for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. It allows them to stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time without needing to renew their status. Unlike regular visitor visas, the Super Visa requires medical insurance and the sponsor must meet minimum income requirements.
What are the income requirements for Super Visa sponsors in 2026?
Sponsors must meet the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) threshold based on their family size (including the visiting parents/grandparents). For 2026, a family of 3 needs $44,966, a family of 4 needs $54,594, and a family of 5 needs $61,920. The sponsor must provide their Notice of Assessment from the most recent tax year as proof.
How much does Super Visa medical insurance cost?
Super Visa insurance typically costs between $1,500 and $3,000 per year, depending on the applicant's age, health condition, coverage amount, and deductible. The cost increases for older applicants and those with pre-existing medical conditions. You must purchase from a Canadian insurance company with minimum $100,000 coverage.
How long does Super Visa processing take?
Processing times vary by country. Applications from the United States typically take 30-60 days, while applications from India, Philippines, and China take 60-120 days. Applications from Pakistan, Iran, and Nigeria may take 90-180 days. Always check the current IRCC processing times for your specific country.
Can I extend my stay inside Canada with a Super Visa?
Yes! Super Visa holders can stay in Canada for up to 5 years per entry. If you want to extend beyond the initial authorized period, you can apply for a visitor record extension from within Canada before your authorized stay expires. This allows you to potentially stay even longer.
What happens if my Super Visa application is refused?
If your Super Visa is refused, you can apply for a regular visitor visa instead. Common reasons for refusal include insufficient income from the sponsor, inadequate insurance coverage, concerns about your ties to your home country, or medical inadmissibility. You should address the specific reasons for refusal in any new application.
Can I work in Canada with a Super Visa?
No, the Super Visa does not allow you to work in Canada. It is strictly for visiting purposes. If you want to work in Canada, you need to apply for a work permit. However, you can engage in volunteer activities and attend short courses or programs.
Do I need to renew my medical insurance every year?
Your initial insurance policy must be valid for at least 1 year. After that, you should maintain valid insurance for as long as you remain in Canada. When you leave and re-enter, you'll need to show proof of valid insurance at the port of entry. Many people purchase annual policies and renew them as needed.
Can both my parents apply together on one application?
Each parent must submit a separate Super Visa application with their own fees. However, they can use the same invitation letter and proof of income from the sponsor. Both parents must have their own medical insurance policies and medical examinations.
What if my sponsor's income is just below the LICO requirement?
If the sponsor's income alone doesn't meet the LICO threshold, they may be able to combine income with their spouse or common-law partner (if they co-sign the invitation letter). Both individuals' incomes can be counted together to meet the requirement. Make sure to include both Notices of Assessment.
Can I include my spouse on my Super Visa application?
Your spouse cannot be included on your Super Visa application as a dependent. If your spouse is also the parent or parent-in-law of the Canadian sponsor, they can apply for their own Super Visa. Otherwise, they would need to apply for a regular visitor visa.
How soon can I re-enter Canada after leaving on a Super Visa?
There is no mandatory waiting period. As long as your Super Visa is valid and you have active medical insurance coverage, you can re-enter Canada immediately. Border officers may ask about the purpose of your frequent visits, so be prepared to explain your situation.
Ready to Apply for a Super Visa?
Let our RCIC-licensed consultants help you navigate the Super Visa process. We'll ensure your application is complete, accurate, and gives you the best chance of approval.