The Visitor Visa and Super Visa are two distinct pathways for individuals seeking entry into Canada. While the Visitor Visa allows temporary stays for tourism, business, or study purposes, the Super Visa caters specifically to parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Visitor Visa and Super Visa
When it comes to visiting Canada, individuals have two options: a Visitor Visa or a Super Visa. While both visas allow entry into the country for temporary stays, there are significant differences between the two.
Visitor Visa
A Visitor Visa is a temporary resident visa that allows individuals to come to Canada for tourism, business meetings, or visiting family and friends. The processing time for a Visitor Visa can vary depending on the individual’s country of residence and the workload of the visa office. The application process typically involves completing the necessary forms, providing supporting documents, and paying the required fees. The visa office will then review the application and make a decision.
How do I apply for a Visitor Visa online?
To apply for a Visitor Visa online, eligible individuals can navigate through the official website of the Government of Canada. The online application process provides a convenient and efficient way to submit your application from anywhere in the world. It is important to note that not all countries are eligible for online applications, so it is crucial to check the list of participating countries before proceeding.
To begin the online application, you will need to create an account on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website. Once registered, you can access the online application form and provide the necessary information, including personal details, purpose of visit, and supporting documents.
During the application process, you will be asked to pay the required processing fees online. It is important to have a valid credit card or access to other accepted payment methods to complete this step.
After submitting your application, you will receive a confirmation email with a unique application number. This number can be used to track the status of your application online.
Applying for a Visitor Visa online is a convenient and straightforward process. By following the instructions provided on the official Government of Canada website, you can complete your application accurately and efficiently.
Super Visa for Parent & Grandparents
On the other hand, a Super Visa is specifically designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows them to visit their family in Canada for an extended period, up to five years. Renewals are needed depending on various cases. The application process includes meeting certain eligibility criteria, providing proof of financial support, and obtaining private medical insurance.
The table below highlights some of the key features of the Parent and Grandparent super visa:
| Feature | Description |
| Validity | Up to 10 years |
| Stay duration per visit | Up to 5 years |
| Medical insurance requirement | Must provide proof of private medical insurance coverage from a Canadian insurance company for the entire duration |
| Financial requirements | Must demonstrate the ability to financially support themselves during their stay in Canada |
The Parent and Grandparent super visa offers a unique opportunity for families to reunite and spend extended periods of time together. It allows parents and grandparents to actively participate in the lives of their loved ones in Canada, creating lasting memories and strengthening family bonds.
Features and Benefits of Super Visa
The Parent and Grandparent super visa allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time. Renewal might be needed depending on various cases. This extended stay period allows families to spend quality time together and create lasting memories.
Requirements/Eligibility For Super Visas
Meeting the eligibility requirements for a Super Visa entails demonstrating financial stability and a genuine intention to visit rather than settle permanently in Canada. The Super Visa program allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit their family for an extended period. To be eligible for a Super Visa, applicants must meet certain criteria.
One of the primary requirements is proof of financial support. Applicants must show that they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their stay in Canada. This includes providing bank statements, employment letters, and income tax documents to demonstrate their financial stability.
In addition to financial stability, applicants must also obtain private medical insurance coverage for their entire stay in Canada. This insurance must be valid for a minimum of one year and cover healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation.
Furthermore, applicants must provide evidence of their genuine intention to visit Canada temporarily. This can be demonstrated through strong ties to their home country, such as property ownership, employment, or family commitments.
It is important to note that meeting the eligibility requirements does not guarantee approval of a Super Visa application. Each application is assessed individually, and officers consider various factors, including the applicant’s ties to their home country, purpose of visit, and overall admissibility to Canada.
How to Apply for a Super Visa : Super Visa Application Process
When applying for a Super Visa, there are several important points to consider. First, a letter of invitation from the host in Canada is required. Additionally, the host must meet certain eligibility requirements. Medical admissibility and having a valid health insurance policy are also key factors, along with meeting the minimum necessary income requirement.
- Letter of invitation
Applicants must initiate the process by submitting a formal letter of invitation. This letter is a crucial part of the Super Visa application, as it demonstrates that the applicant has a genuine purpose for their visit and has a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who is willing to take responsibility for their stay.
The letter of invitation should include important details such as the purpose of the visit, the duration of the stay, and the relationship between the applicant and the inviting party. It should also mention the financial support that will be provided during the visit, including bank statements to prove the inviter’s financial stability.
In order to qualify for a Super Visa, the applicant’s eligible parent or grandparent must undergo a medical examination to ensure they meet the necessary health requirements. It is also important to note that a Super Visa allows for longer stays and multiple entries into Canada.
To evoke emotion and provide a clearer understanding, the following table highlights the key requirements for a successful Super Visa application:
| Requirement | Description |
| Canadian citizenship | The inviting party must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. |
| Eligible parent | The applicant must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. |
| Income Proof | The applicant must provide Income proof as per Notice of Assessment Bank statements serve as supplementary to demonstrate financial stability and ability to support the visit. |
| Medical examination | The eligible parent or grandparent must undergo a medical examination to meet health requirements. |
- Eligible host and co-signer for Super Visa
The eligibility of the host and co-signer is a crucial aspect to consider in the Super Visa application process. When applying for a Super Visa, the host must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident who meets certain requirements. Additionally, the host must provide a letter of invitation to the parent or grandparent who wishes to apply for the Super Visa.
The host along with co-signed must meet the minimum income threshold set by the government. The host and co-signer are responsible for providing financial support and ensuring that the parent or grandparent has access to healthcare during their stay in Canada.
- Medical admissibility
The medical admissibility requirement is a crucial aspect of the Super Visa application process, ensuring that applicants meet the necessary health standards for entry into Canada. To demonstrate medical admissibility, applicants must undergo a medical examination by a designated panel physician approved by the Canadian government. This examination includes tests for communicable diseases, physical and mental health assessments, and a review of the applicant’s medical history.
Additionally, applicants are required to provide proof of medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company that offers emergency coverage. This insurance should be valid for at least one year and provide a minimum coverage amount. It is important to note that even if an applicant meets the medical admissibility requirement, their common-law partner and dependents are also subject to the same requirement. Foreign nationals with pre-existing medical conditions may still be eligible for the Super Visa as long as they have sufficient medical insurance coverage.
| Aspect | Requirement |
| Medical Examination | Conducted by designated panel physician |
| Insurance | Provided by a Canadian insurance company |
| Coverage | Minimum coverage amount for emergency expenses |
| Duration | Valid for at least one year |
- Health insurance policy
Applicants for a Super Visa must possess a valid health insurance policy that meets specific coverage requirements. This is a crucial aspect of the application process, as it ensures that the visa holder will have access to necessary healthcare services during their stay in Canada. When applying for a Super Visa, it is important to consider the following points regarding health insurance:
- The health insurance policy must be issued by an IRCC approved insurance companu.
- It should provide coverage for healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- The coverage must be valid for a minimum of one year and have a minimum coverage amount of $100,000.
Having a health insurance policy that meets these requirements demonstrates the visa applicant’s ability to financially support themselves while in Canada and guarantees that they will not become a burden on the Canadian healthcare system. It is important to note that the applicant’s annual income will also be assessed to ensure they can afford the insurance premiums.
- Minimum necessary income
To successfully apply for a Super Visa, it is necessary for the host to meet the minimum necessary income requirement as part of the Super Visa application process. The minimum income requirement is determined based on the number of family members the applicant will be supporting in Canada. As of 2023, the minimum income requirements are as follows:
| Number of Family Members | Minimum Necessary Income |
| 1 person | $27,514 |
| 2 persons | $34,254 |
| 3 persons | $42,100 |
| 4 persons | $51,128 |
| 5 persons | $57,988 |
To prove that the host meets the minimum income requirements, he must provide documents such as pay stubs, employment letter, and tax assessments. If the host is self-employed, he/she will need to submit business documents and financial statements. Additionally, the host will also need to complete the Super Visa application form and include an original letter of invitation from your child or grandchild in Canada. The letter should include details such as the purpose of the visit of their grandparents , duration of stay, and host’s commitment to financially support their grandparents during their visit.
- Calculating family size
When applying for a Super Visa, it is important to accurately calculate the size of your family. It is essential to provide the correct number of family members on the Super Visa application to ensure the appropriate amount of coverage is obtained. Calculating family size accurately is crucial because it determines the amount of employment insurance coverage needed. Here are some key points to consider when calculating your family size:
- Include all immediate family members, such as your spouse or common-law partner and dependent children.
- Consider dependent children you may have from a previous relationship.
- Remember to include any children that are not yet born but are expected to be born before or during the Super Visa validity period.
Super Visa for Visa-Exempt Visitors
How can visa-exempt visitors obtain a Super Visa?
Visa-exempt visitors who wish to obtain a Super Visa to visit Canada have the opportunity to do so by following a straightforward process. Here are the steps they need to take:
- Eligibility Assessment: Visa-exempt visitors must first assess their eligibility for the Super Visa program. They need to ensure that they meet the requirements, including having a child or grandchild who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, providing proof of financial support, and passing a medical examination.
- Application Submission: Once they have confirmed their eligibility, visa-exempt visitors can submit their Super Visa application. This involves completing the necessary forms, including the Application for a Temporary Resident Visa, providing supporting documents, and paying the required fees.
- Processing and Decision: After submitting the application, visa-exempt visitors will need to wait for the processing of their application. The processing time may vary, but once a decision is made, they will be notified of the outcome.
Obtaining a Super Visa as a visa-exempt visitor allows individuals to extend their stay in Canada and enjoy more time with their loved ones. It is important to follow the application process carefully to increase the chances of a successful outcome.
Extending Your Stay in Canada
After successfully obtaining a Super Visa for Canada, individuals may find themselves in need of extending their stay in the country. There are several reasons why one might want to extend their stay, such as familial obligations, medical treatment, or simply wanting to explore more of what Canada has to offer. Whatever the reason may be, it is important to understand the process and requirements for extending your stay in Canada.
To extend your stay in Canada, you must apply for an extension before your current status expires. It is recommended to apply at least 60 days before the expiration date to allow for processing time. The application process involves submitting the necessary forms and supporting documents, as well as paying the required fees.
When applying for an extension, you will need to provide a valid reason for your request, along with any supporting documentation that proves your need to extend your stay. This can include medical records, letters of invitation.
It is important to note that extending your stay in Canada is not guaranteed, and each application is assessed on its own merits. It is crucial to provide accurate and complete information in your application to increase your chances of approval.
If your extension is approved, you will receive a new document indicating your extended stay in Canada. It is essential to adhere to the conditions set forth in this document and to depart from Canada before it expires.
FAQS
If you are considering applying for a Super Visa, you may have some questions about the process. Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about Super Visas: What are the fees associated with the Super Visa? How long does the processing typically take? How long is the Super Visa valid for? How can you meet the Low Income Cut Off point? Can you bring your dependents to Canada with a Super Visa?
What are the Super Visa fees?
Determining the Super Visa fees is an essential step when considering the financial obligations associated with the application process. The fee for the Super Visa are as follows:
- Application fee: CAD $100 per person
- Biometrics fee: CAD $85 per person
- Medical examination fee: Varies depending on the country and healthcare provider
It’s important to note that these fees are subject to change, so it’s always recommended to check the official website of the Government of Canada for the most up-to-date information. Additionally, it’s crucial to factor in other costs such as travel expenses, insurance coverage, and proof of financial support. By understanding the Super Visa fees and associated costs, applicants can better plan their finances and ensure a smooth application process.
How Long is the Super Visa Processing?
The duration of the Super Visa processing varies depending on several factors. On average, it takes approximately 8 weeks for the Super Visa application to be processed. However, this timeframe can vary depending where the applicant is applying from. It is important to note that the processing time may be longer if additional documentation or information is required. For this reason, it is crucial to ensure that all required documents are submitted accurately and completely to avoid any delays. Applicants are advised to plan their travel accordingly and submit their Super Visa application well in advance to allow for any unforeseen circumstances or processing delays.
How Long is the Super Visa Valid?
The validity period of the Super Visa, which allows visitors to stay in Canada for an extended period, is an important aspect to consider for individuals applying for this visa category. Unlike a regular visitor visa, the Super Visa is valid for a longer duration. Here are some key points regarding the validity of the Super Visa:
- The Super Visa is typically valid for up to 10 years.
- Within that 10-year period, holders of the Super Visa are allowed to stay in Canada for up to 5 years per visit, without the need to renew their visa.
- This extended validity allows individuals to spend more time with their family members in Canada and eliminates the need for frequent visa renewals.
It’s important to note that the Super Visa does not guarantee entry into Canada. Visitors must still meet the eligibility requirements and undergo the necessary immigration procedures upon each entry.
How to meet the Low Income Cut Off point?
To ensure eligibility for the Super Visa, it is important to understand how to meet the Low Income Cut Off point. The Low Income Cut Off (LICO) is the minimum income requirement that sponsors must meet in order to bring their parents or grandparents to Canada on a Super Visa.
The LICO is determined by the size of the family unit and the number of people the sponsor is planning to support. To meet the LICO, sponsors must demonstrate that their income is above the minimum threshold set by the Canadian government. This can be achieved through various means such as employment income, self-employment income, pension income, and rental income.
Additionally, sponsors can include the income of their spouse or common-law partner when calculating their total income. It is important to thoroughly review the requirements and guidelines provided by the government to ensure accurate calculation and proof of meeting the Low Income Cut Off point.
Can I bring my dependents to Canada with a Super Visa?
Bringing dependents to Canada with a Super Visa is a common question among applicants. The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time (if you apply on or after June 22, 2023) . If you applied for a super visa before June 22, 2023, the date you enter Canada with a valid super visa may also affect how long you can stay. The duration of your stay will be determined by the validity period of your super visa, as mentioned on your visa documentation. While the Super Visa does not directly cover dependents, there are options available to bring them along. Here are three important points to consider:
- Dependent children can apply for a regular visitor visa to accompany their parents or grandparents on their Super Visa.
- The parent or grandparent can sponsor their spouse or common-law partner, if they themselves are PR or Canadian Citizen through the Family Sponsorship Program, allowing them to live in Canada as a permanent resident.
- If the dependent child is over the age of 22 and because of health issues, they may be eligible for sponsorship under the Family Class sponsorship program.
It is essential to consult with an immigration professional to understand the specific requirements and processes involved in bringing dependents to Canada with a Super Visa.
Can I Work or Study in Canada With a Visitor Visa or Super Visa?
In terms of working or studying in Canada, the general rule is that a visitor visa or super visa allows visitors to study in programs for up to six months in duration.These visas are primarily for people who wish to visit Canada for tourism, family visits, or business purposes. If one intends to work or study in Canada, they would typically need to apply for the appropriate work or study permit, which has its own set of requirements and application process.
Is There a Maximum Age Limit to Apply for a Super Visa?
There is no maximum age limit to apply for a super visa. The super visa program allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit Canada for an extended period. It is designed to reunite families and provide an opportunity for elderly family members to spend time with their loved ones in Canada. The super visa is a multiple-entry visa that allows individuals to stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time, making it an attractive option for older individuals wishing to visit their family in Canada.
Can I Include My Spouse and Children in My Super Visa Application?
No, super visa application allows parents and grandparents only. There are other sponsorship applications for spouse and children.
Can I Apply for a Super Visa if My Child Is a Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident?
Yes, you can apply for a Super Visa if your child is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. The Super Visa is specifically designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit and stay in Canada for an extended period. It allows multiple entries and can be valid for up to 10 years. The application process involves meeting certain requirements, such as having medical insurance, a letter of invitation, and proof of financial support.
