Super Visa

Super Visa

For many Canadian citizens and permanent residents, the ability to have parents and grandparents visit for extended periods is invaluable. The Super Visa provides a long-term solution, allowing eligible parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years per visit, with multiple entries permitted over a ten-year validity period. Unlike a standard visitor visa, which requires renewal every six months, the Super Visa offers greater flexibility and peace of mind for families wanting to stay connected.

Who is eligible for a Super Visa?

To qualify for a Super Visa, applicants must meet stringent eligibility requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), ensuring both financial and medical readiness:

  • Relationship Requirement: The applicant must be a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
  • Financial Sufficiency: The Canadian host (child or grandchild) must provide a Letter of Invitation and demonstrate financial capability by meeting the Minimum Necessary Income (MNI) threshold.
  • Comprehensive Medical Insurance: Applicants must obtain private health insurance coverage from a Canadian provider, valid for at least one year, covering medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation, with a minimum coverage of CAD 100,000.
  • Medical Examination: A mandatory immigration medical exam must be completed to assess admissibility on health grounds.
  • Temporary Stay Intent: Applicants must satisfy immigration officers that they will leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay by demonstrating strong ties to their home country, including family, employment, or financial commitments.

What are the steps to apply for a Super Visa?

  1. Gather Necessary Documents – Including proof of relationship, income, insurance, medical examination, and an invitation letter from the host in Canada.
  2. Apply Online or Through a Visa Office – Applications must be submitted from outside Canada and processed by a visa office in the applicant’s country.
  3. Biometrics and Medical Examination – If required, the applicant must complete biometric screening and undergo a medical exam with an IRCC-approved physician.
  4. Decision and Approval – Once approved, a visa is issued, allowing multiple entries to Canada for up to ten years.

Are you aware of the recent legal developments that could impact your Super Visa application?

Immigration policies evolve, and recent case law has shaped how Super Visa applications are assessed. Notable decisions include:

  • Singh v. Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2023 FC 298 – The Federal Court reinforced the importance of providing clear and verifiable financial documentation. In this case, the applicant's Super Visa was refused due to inconsistent proof of income, highlighting the necessity of meeting MNI thresholds with proper documentation.
  • Kumar v. Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2024 FC 112 – The court addressed the impact of previous visa refusals, ruling that unless new, compelling evidence is presented, past refusals may weigh against the applicant. This case underscores the importance of submitting a strong, well-supported application from the outset.
  • Ali v. Canada (Citizenship and Immigration), 2024 FC 189 – The ruling emphasized the continuous validity of private medical insurance. The court upheld the visa officer's decision to deny re-entry to an applicant whose insurance had lapsed, reaffirming that maintaining valid health coverage is a strict requirement for Super Visa holders.

Why choose Kahlon Law Office for your Super Visa application?

Navigating the Super Visa process can be complex, particularly when it comes to financial thresholds, medical requirements, and demonstrating ties to one’s home country. At Kahlon Law Office, we specialize in Canadian immigration law, ensuring that your application is thoroughly prepared, legally sound, and positioned for success. Our team will:

  •  Provide personalized legal advice tailored to your case
  •  Assist in preparing a strong Letter of Invitation and financial documentation
  •  Guide you through medical and insurance requirements
  •  Represent you in case of refusals or complications

If you are looking to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada under the Super Visa program, let us help you navigate the legal intricacies. Contact Kahlon Law Office today for a consultation.