Super Visa offers an alternative reunification path for parents and grandparents
Bringing Parents and Grandparents to Canada: Super Visa Program
Canadian citizens and permanent residents have the option to bring their parents or grandparents to Canada for an extended period through the government’s Super Visa program.
For sponsors who have not been selected through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) lottery, the Super Visa serves as a viable alternative.
The Super Visa allows holders to obtain visitor status in Canada for up to 10 years, with each stay lasting a maximum of five years. In comparison, a regular visitor status is typically granted for a maximum of six months.
Comparison Between Super Visa and PGP
| Dimension | Super Visa | Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) |
|---|---|---|
| Availability | Open for application all year round | Selection through lottery system |
| Qualification – Sponsor | Canadian citizen/PR; Income requirement | Canadian citizen/PR; Minimum income requirement |
| Immigration Status | Visitor status for up to 10 years | Permanent residency |
| Public Health Insurance Eligibility | No | Yes |
| Cost | Starting from $100 | Starting from $1,205 |
| Processing Time | Varies | Up to 36 months |
Benefits of Super Visa
The Super Visa is more accessible than the PGP, as it does not operate on a lottery system. Anyone can apply for the Super Visa throughout the year, making it a more feasible option for family reunification.
Eligibility for Super Visa
Host Requirements:
Super Visa Applicant Requirements:
- Apply from outside Canada
- Purchase and maintain qualifying private health insurance
- Admissibility
Super Visa applications can include the applicant’s spouse or common-law partner but not dependent children.
Application Process
To apply for a Super Visa, parents or grandparents must submit their application from outside Canada. The process involves steps such as purchasing health insurance, gathering required documents, submitting the application, and completing necessary medical examinations.
Applicants from visa-free countries must also apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in addition to the Super Visa.
Addressing Common Refusal Reasons
To increase the chances of a successful Super Visa application, applicants should address common refusal reasons such as insufficient ties to the home country, lack of financial support evidence, and potential medical inadmissibility. Providing comprehensive documentation and meeting all requirements can enhance the application’s success rate.
Immigration Results
Unlike the PGP, which offers permanent residency, the Super Visa grants visitor status. Holders can stay in Canada for up to five years at a time, with the possibility of extensions. The Super Visa does not permit work or study in Canada but offers faster processing times compared to PGP applications.
For more information on the Super Visa program, visit the official webpage.
