A Super Visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time, while a regular visitor visa usually limits stays to 6 months per entry. Super Visas also require mandatory private health insurance and proof that the host meets minimum income requirements, whereas visitor visas do not.

A Super Visa is typically issued as a multiple-entry visa valid for up to 10 years, or until the applicant’s passport expires. Each time the Super Visa holder enters Canada, they may be authorized to stay for up to 5 consecutive years, subject to border officer discretion.

Yes. The child or grandchild hosting the applicant in Canada must meet the minimum income requirement (LICO) based on household size. Proof of income is a mandatory part of the application, and failing to meet the threshold can result in refusal.

Yes. Super Visa applicants must obtain private health insurance from a Canadian insurer or an approved foreign insurer. The policy must be valid for at least one year, provide a minimum of $100,000 in coverage, and cover healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation. Proof that the insurance is paid is required at the time of application.

Yes. Even if an applicant is from a visa-exempt country, they may still apply for a Super Visa in order to benefit from the longer authorized stay of up to 5 years. Visa-exempt travellers may also need an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Canada by air.

A Super Visa does not automatically lead to permanent residence. However, some families later pursue permanent residence through the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship (PGP) program when it opens, or in rare circumstances through Humanitarian and Compassionate (H&C) applications. An immigration lawyer can assess whether any long-term options may be available based on the family’s situation.