Overview
The Super Visa is a long-stay visitor visa for the parents and grandparents of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. It is a temporary visa, not permanent residence.
According to IRCC, a Super Visa can be valid for up to 10 years with multiple entries, and a parent or grandparent can stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time.
To qualify, the host child or grandchild must meet an income requirement, and the visitor must hold valid Canadian medical insurance, pass a medical exam and show a genuine family relationship. Every application is assessed on its own facts and approval is never guaranteed.
Super Visa processing times change often, and they vary by visa office and country. Check IRCC's online processing-times tool before you plan travel, apply as early as you can, and keep your documents ready. A Super Visa is not a path to permanent residence.
Processing time
Super Visa eligibility
To apply for a Super Visa, you must show that:
1
You are the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
2
Your host child or grandchild meets the income requirement and you have valid Canadian medical insurance.
What you need
The main requirements, according to IRCC, include:
-
Canadian medical insurance:
Valid Canadian medical insurance that meets IRCC's coverage requirements.
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Income requirement:
Your host must meet IRCC's minimum income for their family size.
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Immigration medical exam:
A medical exam by an IRCC-approved panel physician, done before the visa decision.
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Genuine family relationship:
Proof of your relationship to your host child or grandchild.
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Letter of invitation:
A letter from your host inviting you to visit Canada.
Who is the Super Visa for?
The Super Visa may suit you if:
• You are the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
• You want to visit your family in Canada for long periods, up to 5 years at a time, without applying for permanent residence.
• Your child or grandchild can meet the income requirement and you can buy Canadian medical insurance.
• You are not eligible for, or not ready to be sponsored under, the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP).
When a Super Visa may not work
A Super Visa application may be refused if:
• The host child or grandchild does not meet the income requirement.
• The visitor has no valid Canadian medical insurance, or fails the medical exam.
• The officer is not satisfied that the visitor will leave Canada at the end of the stay.
• The relationship is not proven, or the application is incomplete.
A Super Visa application is only as strong as its documents. Missing proof of income, insurance or relationship is one of the most common reasons for delay or refusal.
Because every family's situation is different, it helps to have your file checked before you apply.
FAQ
1 / Who can apply for a Super Visa?
Parents and grandparents of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, if the host meets the income requirement and you have valid Canadian medical insurance.
2 / How long can I stay on a Super Visa?
According to IRCC, up to 5 years at a time. The visa itself can be valid for up to 10 years with multiple entries.
3 / How long does a Super Visa take?
Processing times change often and vary by visa office. Check IRCC's processing-times tool for the latest estimate.
4 / Do I need medical insurance?
Yes. Valid Canadian medical insurance is required. Check IRCC for the current coverage rules before you buy a policy.
5 / What income does my child need?
Your host must meet IRCC's minimum income for their family size. In some cases, combined income can be counted. Check IRCC's current figures, or ask us to review your numbers.
6 / Is a Super Visa the same as PGP?
No. The Super Visa is a temporary visitor visa. The Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) leads to permanent residence.
7 / Can I work on a Super Visa?
A Super Visa is a visitor visa and does not give you the right to work in Canada. Check IRCC for the current rules before you plan any work or study.
8 / What happens if my application is refused?
A refusal is not always the end. You may be able to reapply with a stronger application that addresses the reasons for refusal. Speak with us about your options.
9 / Do I need a lawyer or consultant to apply?
It is not mandatory, but professional guidance can help you present a complete, well-evidenced case.
Last reviewed: October 2026. This page is general information only and is not legal advice. Every application is assessed on its own facts, and approval is never guaranteed. Rules and fees change, so always check the official IRCC Super Visa page before you apply.