The Canada Super Visa offers a flexible, long-term entry option for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. This multi-entry visa allows eligible individuals to stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time, with a validity of up to 10 years, making it a preferred alternative to traditional sponsorship Canada options. In this comprehensive guide, we present a detailed, step-by-step process to apply for a Super Visa, covering everything from eligibility and documentation to application submission and super visa processing time.
Understanding the Canada Super Visa Program
The Canada Super Visa is designed for the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents who wish to visit their families in Canada for extended periods. Unlike a standard visitor visa, the Super Visa allows multiple entries and long-term stays, provided all super visa requirements are met.
Eligibility Criteria for the Canada Super Visa
To be eligible for a Super Visa, the applicant must:
Be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Receive a written invitation from their child or grandchild.
Have private medical insurance from a Canadian insurance provider.
Undergo a medical examination from a designated physician.
Provide proof of meeting the super visa income requirement by the sponsor.
Intend to stay temporarily and not work or study in Canada.
Documents Required to Apply for a Super Visa
Proper documentation is critical. Below is a checklist of the required documents:
Valid passport with blank pages
Invitation letter from the host in Canada
Proof of relationship (birth certificate, etc.)
Proof of income of the sponsor (NOAs, T4s, pay stubs)
Private health insurance covering at least $100,000 CAD
Medical exam confirmation
Completed visa application forms
Digital photo (as per IRCC guidelines)
Receipt of visa application fee and biometric fee
Meeting the Super Visa Income Requirement
The super visa income requirement is determined by the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) and varies based on the number of people in the host’s household. Below is the 2025 LICO table:
| Household Size | Minimum Required Income (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $27,514 |
| 2 | $34,254 |
| 3 | $42,110 |
| 4 | $51,128 |
| 5 | $57,988 |
| 6 | $65,400 |
| 7 | $72,814 |
| Additional | +$7,412 per person |
Proof of income can include:
CRA Notice of Assessment
T4 or T1 documents
Employment letter stating job title, salary, and duration
Most recent pay stubs
Bank statements
Step-by-Step Application Process for the Super Visa
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Begin by collecting all required personal, financial, and insurance documents. Ensure that the medical insurance is from a Canadian provider and is valid for at least 1 year from the date of entry.
Step 2: Complete the Visa Application Online
Visit the IRCC official website and fill out the application forms. Create an account, upload all documents, and pay the application fees.
Application Fee: CAD $100
Biometrics Fee: CAD $85
Step 3: Provide Biometrics
After submission, applicants will receive a Biometrics Instruction Letter (BIL). Visit a designated Visa Application Centre (VAC) to provide fingerprints and a photograph.
Step 4: Undergo Medical Examination
The applicant must schedule a medical exam with a panel physician approved by IRCC. The medical results are sent directly to IRCC by the physician.
Step 5: Wait for Decision
Once all documents are submitted and the biometrics and medical exam are completed, IRCC will assess the application. If approved, a visa counterfoil will be affixed to the applicant’s passport.
Super Visa Processing Time (2025)
Processing times vary based on the applicant’s home country and current volume of applications. On average, the super visa processing time in 2025 is:
21 to 45 days for most countries
Additional time may be required for biometrics and medical results
To avoid delays, submit all documents correctly and promptly respond to any additional requests from IRCC.
Why Choose a Super Visa Over Family Sponsorship Canada
While the Parents and Grandparents Sponsorship Program offers Canada Permanent Residency, it is lottery-based and accepts limited applications yearly. The Super Visa offers:
Faster processing
Multiple entries for 10 years
Longer individual stays (up to 5 years)
No waitlist or annual intake caps
This makes it an ideal choice for families who want to be reunited quickly.
Other Immigration Options to Explore
Canada Permanent Residency
Long-term immigration goals can be fulfilled through PR programs such as Express Entry, Family Sponsorship, or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
Canada Open Work Permit
Spouses of skilled workers or international students may be eligible for this permit, allowing unrestricted work rights across Canada.
Working Holiday Visa Canada
Offered under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, this visa is perfect for young adults looking to travel and work in Canada for up to two years.
Top Tips for a Successful Application
Ensure the invitation letter includes all required details like full name, contact, and relationship.
Review the super visa income requirement and submit strong financial documents.
Purchase eligible medical insurance from a reputable Canadian company.
Include a well-written statement of purpose, explaining ties to the home country and the temporary nature of the visit.
Consider consulting licensed immigration consults for application review.
Common Reasons for Application Rejection
Incomplete or incorrect documents
Insufficient income proof from the sponsor
Missing or invalid health insurance
Weak explanation of intent to return home
Inconsistencies in travel history or personal information
Avoiding these mistakes will significantly improve the chances of a successful visa grant.
Conclusion
The Canada Super Visa stands out as an efficient, flexible, and family-friendly immigration option. With careful planning, correct documentation, and attention to the super visa requirements, applicants can enjoy long-term visits with their loved ones in Canada. This step-by-step guide simplifies the process and helps you confidently prepare a strong application that meets all IRCC expectations.
