Parent & Grandparent Super Visa
A multiple-entry visa that allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time — valid for up to 10 years.
5 Years
Per Entry
10 Years
Visa Validity
Multiple
Entries
What is the Super Visa?
The Parent and Grandparent Super Visa is a long-stay multiple-entry visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens, permanent residents, or registered Indians to visit Canada for up to 5 years at a time. Unlike a regular visitor visa — which typically allows stays of up to 6 months — the Super Visa offers extended stays and multiple entries over a validity period of up to 10 years. It is one of the most popular options for families who want to spend extended time together in Canada while a permanent residence sponsorship application is being considered or pending.
Super Visa vs Regular Visitor Visa
A regular visitor visa typically allows stays of up to 6 months per entry. The Super Visa allows stays of up to 5 years per entry — making it ideal for parents and grandparents who want to spend extended time with their family in Canada without repeatedly applying for extensions.
Who Can Apply
The Super Visa has requirements for both the applicant (parent/grandparent) and the host (child/grandchild in Canada). Both must meet their respective requirements.
Health Insurance Requirements
You must have proof of a valid health insurance policy on each entry to Canada. If your insurance will expire before you leave Canada, you must renew your policy to maintain coverage.
Your Insurance Policy Must
Insurance brokers and insurance claims administrators are not insurance companies and will not appear on the OSFI list. Make sure your policy is issued directly by an eligible insurance company.
Minimum Necessary Income (MNI)
The host must meet or exceed the minimum income threshold based on their family size. The income table below was updated by IRCC on July 29, 2025.
Income thresholds are set by IRCC and are subject to change without notice. Always verify the current table at canada.ca before applying.
Minimum Income by Family Size — Super Visa Host
| Number of Family Members | Minimum Income (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 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 additional family member | + $8,224 |
Who is Included in Family Size?
Accepted Proof of Income Documents
The host must submit one or more of the following documents to prove they meet the MNI requirement:
Note for Visa-Exempt Countries
Even if you do not need a visitor visa to enter Canada (visa-exempt countries), you can still apply for a Super Visa to benefit from the extended 5-year stay. If approved, IRCC will issue you a letter to present to a border services officer when you arrive. If you travel by air, you may also need to apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) separately.
Super Visa vs Parent & Grandparent Sponsorship
Many families ask whether to apply for a Super Visa or the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP) sponsorship. Here is how they compare — and importantly, you can apply for both simultaneously:
| Factor | Super Visa | PGP Sponsorship |
|---|---|---|
| Purpose | Extended visit — temporary | Permanent residence |
| How long they can stay | Up to 5 years per entry | Permanently |
| Processing time | Typically faster | Varies — intake is limited annually |
| Income requirement | MNI required (host) | MNI required for 3 consecutive years (sponsor) |
| Health insurance required | Yes — min $100,000 coverage | No |
| Work authorization | No | Yes — as a PR |
| Path to citizenship | No | Yes — after meeting residency obligations |
| Can be done simultaneously | Yes — can apply while PGP is pending | Separate application |
You can apply for a Super Visa while a PGP sponsorship application is pending — or withdraw a sponsorship application and apply for a Super Visa instead. Our RCIC can advise on the best strategy for your family.
Government Processing Fees
Government fees are set by IRCC and are subject to change without notice. Additional fees may apply depending on the applicant's country of residence and local visa office requirements. Always verify current fees at canada.ca before applying.
IRCC Government Fees — Super Visa
| Fee Item | Amount (CAD) |
|---|---|
| Super Visa Application Fee (per person) | $100 CAD |
| Biometrics (if required, per person) | $85 CAD |
Important: Government fees are payable directly to IRCC and are separate from Asteco's professional fees. Fees are subject to change by IRCC at any time.
How Asteco Can Help
Super Visa applications involve two sets of requirements — for the applicant and the host — and errors in either can lead to refusals. Our team ensures every document is in order before submission.
Disclaimer: Super Visa requirements, income thresholds, and processing times are established by IRCC and are subject to change without notice. The income table on this page reflects IRCC's published figures as of July 29, 2025. Government fees and program requirements may be updated at any time. This page is for general information only and does not constitute legal or immigration advice. Consult our RCIC before making any immigration decisions.
Quick Info
Disclaimer: Income thresholds and program requirements are subject to change by IRCC at any time without notice.