Eligibility, costs and processing time
The Super Visa allows long stays in Canada and is now the main option for family visits. (Photo: AI-Generated)
Canada’s Super Visa remains open for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, especially after the government confirmed that the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) will not open in 2026, according to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
The Super Visa allows long stays in Canada and is now the main option for family visits.
What is a Canada Super Visa?
A multiple-entry visitor visa for parents and grandparents.
Allows a stay of up to 5 years per visit.
Stay can be extended another 2 years inside Canada.
Visa validity can be up to 10 years, depending on passport.
No need to renew status every six months.
Unlike a regular visitor visa, the Super Visa allows long stays without repeated extensions.
Who can apply?
Applicant must be:
Parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or PR.
Applying from outside Canada.
Medically admissible and clear of criminal issues.
Able to show they will return to their home country.
Host in Canada must:
Be 18 or older
Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or regered Indian
Meet minimum income requirements
Provide a letter of invitation promising financial support.
Canadian parents born or adopted abroad will be able to pass citizenship on to their child born or adopted outside Canada. (Photo: Unsplash)
Why the Super Visa matters now
IRCC has confirmed PGP intake will not open in 2026. Super Visa is the only long-term visit option for parents and grandparents. Income rules were updated in 2025 to reflect inflation. Minimum income required (2025). Hosts must meet a minimum gross income based on family size.Income requirement (CAD):Story continues below this ad
1 person: $30,526
2 people: $38,002
3 people: $46,720
4 people: $56,724
5 people: $64,336
6 people: $72,560
7 people: $80,784
Each extra person: $8,224
Income must be shown using CRA documents, such as the Notice of Assessment.
How family size is counted
Super Visa applicant(s).
Host and spouse/partner.
Dependent children.
Anyone previously sponsored whose undertaking is still valid.
Health insurance rules (mandatory).
Applicants must buy private medical insurance that:
Is valid for at least 1 year.
Covers health care, hospitalisation and repatriation.
Has minimum coverage of $100,000.
Is fully paid (quotes not accepted).
Is from a Canadian or OSFI-approved insurer.
Border officers may ask to see proof of insurance on arrival.
IRCC has confirmed PGP intake will not open in 2026.
How to apply: Step step
Step 1: Collect documents
Invitation letter from the host.
Proof of the host’s income.
Proof of relationship.
Medical exam confirmation.
Health insurance policy.
Passport and visa forms.
Step 2: Apply online
Submit application through the IRCC portal.
Application must be filed outside Canada.
Step 3: Pay feesStory continues below this ad
Visa fee: CAD 100 (approx ₹5,000).
Biometrics (if required): extra cost.
Step 4: Wait for processing
Average processing time: 90–190 days, depending on country.
Step 5: Travel to Canada
Carry passport, insurance, and invitation letter.
Processing times (examples).
India: ~197 days.
USA: ~77 days.
Pakan: ~178 days.
Philippines: ~117 days.
(Times can change; IRCC advises checking regularly.)
Some people are inadmissible to Canada, which means they are not allowed to enter the country. (Al-generated image)
What can you not do on a Super Visa?
Work in Canada.
Study long-term (over 6 months).
Key costs (approximate)
Super Visa application: CAD 100 (₹5,000).
Medical exam: varies country.
Health insurance: depends on age and coverage (often several lakh rupees).
Tips to avoid refusal.
Submit complete documents.
Clearly show ties to the home country.
Ensure income meets the correct family size.
Buy compliant insurance only.
Apply early due to long processing times.
Can Super Visa holders apply for PR?
The Super Visa itself is temporary.
Applicants may apply separately for PR later if eligible under programs like PGP.
With the Parents and Grandparents Program closed for 2026, the Canada Super Visa is the main option for long family visits. Meeting income rules, buying proper insurance and showing intent to return home are key to approval.
