What is a Super Visa?

The Super Visa is a special type of visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit Canada for extended periods. Unlike a regular visitor visa, which typically permits stays of up to six months, the Super Visa enables eligible individuals to stay in Canada for up to five  years at a time without needing to renew their status and this can be further extended for two more years. The Super Visa is designed to facilitate longer visits and provide greater flexibility for family members to spend time with their loved ones in Canada. This visa is particularly beneficial for families who wish to reunite with older relatives and ensure they can enjoy extended visits.

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Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for a Super Visa, applicants must meet several requirements. They must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, and the sponsoring child or grandchild must provide a letter of invitation that includes details about their relationship, their commitment to financially support the visitor, and a guarantee that the visitor will have adequate medical insurance coverage. Additionally, applicants must demonstrate that they have sufficient ties to their home country and intend to return after their visit. They must also undergo a medical examination to ensure they are in good health and have no health conditions that could pose a risk to Canadian public health.

Duration and Extensions

A Super Visa extension allows for stays of up to two years per entry, which is significantly longer than the standard six-month visitor visa. This extended duration is ideal for parents and grandparents who wish to spend substantial time with their family in Canada. While the Super Visa itself is valid for up to ten years or until the passport expires (whichever comes first), the length of each stay is limited to five years at a time. If a visitor wishes to stay longer, they must leave Canada before their authorized stay expires and reapply if they wish to return.