Parent and Grandparent Super Visa

The Parent and Grandparent Super Visa (PGSV) is a long-term, multiple-entry visa designed to help Canadian citizens and permanent residents bring their parents and grandparents to Canada for extended stays. This visa promotes family reunification and allows loved ones to spend quality time together without the need for frequent visa renewals.

Key Features of the Super Visa

  • Long-Term Validity: The Super Visa is valid for up to 10 years and allows parents and grandparents to enter Canada multiple times during this period.
  • Extended Stay Duration: Each visit under the Super Visa allows a stay of up to 2 years without the need to renew visitor status.
  • Family Reunification: Designed to strengthen family ties by enabling extended visits between parents, grandparents, and their Canadian families.
  • Financial Support: Sponsors must demonstrate that they meet the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) requirements and provide a written commitment of financial support.
  • Medical Insurance Requirement: Applicants must obtain medical insurance for at least one year from a Canadian insurance company that meets IRCC standards.

Eligibility Criteria

To qualify for the Super Visa, applicants and their Canadian hosts must meet the following criteria:

  • The applicant must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
  • The sponsor must provide a written promise of financial support and proof of income that meets the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO).
  • The applicant must purchase medical insurance valid for at least one year with minimum coverage of CAD $100,000.
  • The applicant must undergo a medical examination and be found admissible to Canada.
  • Meet all standard temporary resident visa (TRV) eligibility and admissibility requirements.

Application Process

  1. Step 1: Confirm eligibility and gather necessary documents, including proof of relationship, financial documents, and medical insurance.
  2. Step 2: Complete the Super Visa application form and submit it to the nearest Visa Application Centre (VAC) or online through the IRCC portal.
  3. Step 3: Undergo a medical examination and submit biometrics if required.
  4. Step 4: Wait for IRCC to process the application and issue a decision. Processing times may vary by region.
  5. Step 5: Upon approval, receive your Parent and Grandparent Super Visa and travel to Canada for your extended stay.

Benefits of the Super Visa

  • Allows extended family visits of up to two years per entry.
  • Grants multiple entries for up to 10 years.
  • No need for frequent visa renewals like a regular visitor visa.
  • Provides a pathway for family closeness and emotional support while maintaining temporary resident status.
  • Encourages strong family bonds between generations living in Canada and abroad.
Pro Tip: To avoid delays, ensure that medical insurance covers at least $100,000 CAD and is valid for a minimum of one year from a Canadian provider. Double-check that financial documents clearly show your child or grandchild meets the minimum income requirement.
Disclaimer: The information provided is for general guidance and may change based on updates from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). For official details on the Parent and Grandparent Super Visa, visit the IRCC website: www.cic.gc.ca .