A super visa is a multiple-entry visitor visa designed exclusively for the parents and grandparents of individuals holding Canadian citizenship or permanent residency. This visa allows holders to remain in Canada for a maximum of two years consecutively, eliminating the requirement for status renewal.
Moreover, the Canadian super visa is a special category under the temporary resident visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada for an extended period. Unlike a regular visitor visa, the super visa grants a more extended stay, making it an attractive option for family reunification.
Canadian Super Visa Eligibility
Super Visa Eligibility Requirements
- Must have a host who is a Canadian citizen, permanent resident or with a Secure Certificate of Indian Status (SCIS) issued by the Government of Canada.
- The host must be at least 18 years old, living in Canada, and meet or exceed the minimum necessary income.
- The host must provide citizenship or permanent resident documents or a Secure Certificate of Indian Status.
- A letter inviting the visitor to Canada, including a promise of financial support, must be signed by the host.
- Family size details (including names and birthdates) are considered in calculating the minimum necessary income.
Application Requirements:
- Application for a super visa must be submitted from outside of Canada.
- Visas must be printed by a visa office outside Canada, following their instructions.
- Entry into Canada is allowed upon approval at a port of entry.
- Immigration medical exam and meeting specific conditions are required.
- Dependents cannot be included in the application.
Health Insurance Requirements:
- Proof of health insurance from a Canadian or approved foreign insurance company is mandatory.
- Insurance should be valid for a minimum of 1 year, covering healthcare and hospitalization, while repatriation costs might be covered separately.
- A minimum of $100,000 of emergency coverage is required.
- Super visa holders must maintain valid health insurance throughout their stay.
- Proof of paid insurance must be presented to border services officers upon entry.
Other Considerations:
- Several factors are considered during the application process, including ties to the home country, the purpose of the visit, family and financial situations, and the overall stability of the home country.
- Visa-exempt individuals can apply for a super visa for a 2-year stay.
- Approval results in a letter for border services officers, and an electronic travel authorization (eTA) may be required for air travel.
- The eTA should be linked to the passport used for the super visa application.=
Documents Required for Canadian Super Visa Application
Here are the documents required for the super visa application:
- Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond the intended duration of your stay in Canada and cover your departure from any transit country.
- Two recent passport-sized photographs: Ensure they meet the specified size and format requirements.
- Proof of relationship to the Canadian host: Provide documents for a super visa like birth certificates, marriage certificates, or adoption documents establishing your legal connection to the inviting individual.
- Canadian host’s documentation: The host needs to obtain proof of Canadian citizenship or permanent residency through documents like passports, citizenship certificates, permanent resident cards, or a Secure Certificate of Indian Status (if applicable).
- Letter of invitation from the host: Obtain a signed letter expressing their willingness to host you financially and outlining their living arrangements.
- Medical insurance: Present evidence of private medical insurance covering expenses like hospitalization, medical care, and repatriation for the entire duration of your stay. The insurance must be from a Canadian company or an approved foreign company.
- Financial proof: Demonstrate your and your host’s combined ability to support your stay in Canada. Acceptable documents might include:
- Employment letters and pay stubs
- Pension statements
- Bank statements
- Tax returns
- Land ownership documents
- Investment statements
- Immigration medical exam: Submit the receipt or completion certificate for the designated medical exam.
- Application fee: Pay the prescribed fee using the government-approved method.
Optional Documents:
- Police certificates: Provide them from countries you’ve resided in for six months or more consecutively in the past year if required.
- Travel itinerary: Present your intended travel plans if requested.
Consider reading the complete document requirements for PR card renewal.
How to Apply for a Parent or Grandparent Super Visa Application
Create an Account: Register on the IRCC Portal by providing accurate details.
Complete the Online Form: Fill out the online application form for a super visa with precise information, including personal and family details.
Upload Required Documents: Scan and upload necessary documents, such as the invitation letter and proof of financial support.
Review and Confirm Details: Ensure accuracy before finalizing and submitting the application.
Pay the Super Visa Application Fees: Process the non-refundable fee through accepted methods, generally credit cards.
Submit the Application: Applicants must remain outside Canada during the submission.
Submission of the application from outside Canada
- Essential Requirement: Emphasize the necessity of being outside Canada when submitting super visa applications to comply with program regulations.
Canadian Super Visa Fees
The Canadian super visa fee for each applicant is $100 CAD, which is non-refundable, irrespective of the application outcome.
Choose Chaudhary Law Office to Streamline Your Super Visa Application!
At Chaudhary Law Office, we guide you every step of the way, ensuring that your family reunification is not just a dream but a well-executed reality.
Our Canadian immigration lawyers strictly adhere to eligibility criteria and submit all required documents accurately. Our commitment is rooted in the belief that every family deserves a smooth and successful immigration experience.
Contact us at 416-447-6118 today to streamline your super visa application!
FAQ’s
Can I apply for a super visa extension?
Yes, it is possible to apply for an extension, but this may be in the form of a visitor record. However, it’s crucial to do so before the initial visa expires.
How much income do I need for a Canadian super visa?
While there is no specific income requirement, sponsors must prove they meet the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) for their family size, ensuring they can financially support their parents or grandparents.
How long does it take for a super visa to be processed?
The processing time generally ranges from 4 to 6 months. However, there may be variations depending on individual circumstances and factors specific to each country.
Is a Canada super visa different from a visitor visa?
Yes, the super visa allows for a more extended stay compared to a regular visitor visa, making it a preferred option for family reunification.
Are you allowed to work in Canada on a super visa?
No, the super visa is a visitor visa and does not grant the right to work in Canada. If the intention is to work, alternative visa options should be explored.