Super Visa: An Alternative Pathway for Parents and Grandparents to Reunite with Family in Canada

Family reunification is one of the most cherished goals of Canadian immigration. While the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) remains a highly sought-after option, the lottery-based system often leaves many families without an opportunity. For those who were not invited through the PGP, the Super Visa offers a reliable and flexible alternative to bring parents and grandparents closer for extended stays in Canada.

What is the Super Visa?

The Super Visa allows Canadian citizens and permanent residents to host their parents or grandparents for long-term visits. Unlike a regular visitor visa, which grants stays of up to six months, the Super Visa provides:

• Multiple entries for up to 10 years

• Stays of up to 5 years at a time (with a possible extension of 2 years)

This makes it one of the most attractive family reunification pathways for those not selected under the PGP.

Super Visa vs. Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)

While the PGP leads to permanent residence, the Super Visa ensures quicker family reunification without the uncertainty of the lottery system.

Eligibility Requirements for the Super Visa

Host (Sponsor) Requirements:

• Must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian

• Must be 18 years or older

• Must meet the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) requirement to prove financial stability

Applicant (Parent/Grandparent) Requirements:

• Must apply from outside Canada

• Must purchase private medical insurance (minimum $100,000 coverage for at least 1 year)

• Must pass a medical examination

• Must demonstrate strong ties to their home country

A Super Visa can also include a spouse or common-law partner, but not dependent children.

How to Apply for the Super Visa

1. Purchase private medical insurance (Canadian or approved foreign provider).

2. Collect required documents, including:

   • Invitation letter from the host in Canada

   • Proof of host’s income and status in Canada

   • Proof of relationship (e.g., birth certificate)

   • Insurance documents

3. Submit the application through the IRCC portal and pay the required fees.

4. Provide biometrics (if requested).

5. Complete a medical exam as instructed by IRCC.

6. Once approved, applicants will receive instructions to submit their passport and obtain the visa.

Common Reasons for Refusal – and How to Overcome Them

• Weak Ties to Home Country: Prove employment, property ownership, or dependent family members abroad.

• Insufficient Financial Proof: Provide bank statements, CRA tax assessments, employment letters, and pay stubs.

• Medical Inadmissibility: Submit full medical reports, proof of condition management, and insurance coverage confirmation.

Proactively addressing these issues strengthens the chances of approval.

Real-Life Example: How Families Benefit from the Super Visa

Take the case of Rajesh, a permanent resident in Toronto. His parents live in India, and despite applying for the PGP, they were not selected in the lottery. Instead of waiting indefinitely, Rajesh applied for a Super Visa for his parents. Within 4 months, the visa was approved. His parents are now able to stay with him for up to 5 years at a time, enjoying family milestones like birthdays and festivals without the worry of visa renewals every six months.

This example shows how the Super Visa is a practical solution for families separated by long wait times under the PGP.

Super Visa vs. PGP: Choosing the Right Path

• Choose Super Visa if your priority is quick family reunification and long-term visits.

• Choose PGP if you want your parents or grandparents to obtain permanent resident status in Canada.

Many families even use the Super Visa as a stepping stone while waiting for the PGP process.

Final Thoughts – Reunite Your Family in Canada

Canada continues to recognize the importance of family unity. The Super Visa program ensures that parents and grandparents can spend meaningful time with their loved ones without long separations.

If you or your family members want to explore Canadian immigration pathways—whether it’s through the Super Visa, Express Entry, or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)—now is the time to act.

Start planning today and take the first step toward reuniting your family in Canada.