Step-by-Step Guide to Canada’s Super Visa for Parents and Grandparents

The Canada Super Visa is a special visa designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents, allowing them to visit their families in Canada for extended periods. Unlike a regular visitor visa, which typically allows a six-month stay, the Super Visa permits up to five years of stay per visit, with multiple entries over a ten-year period. Here is a comprehensive guide detailing the super visa requirements, application process, super visa income requirement, and more.

What Is the Super Visa and Who Can Apply?

The Super Visa is intended for non-resident parents and grandparents who wish to visit their children or grandchildren living in Canada. Applicants must be eligible for entry into Canada and fulfill specific financial and medical requirements.

Eligibility Criteria Include:

• The applicant must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or Canada Permanent Residency holder.

• A signed invitation letter from the host in Canada is required.

• Applicants must undergo an Immigration Medical Exam (IME).

• Applicants must provide proof of private Canadian medical insurance valid for at least one year.

• Proof that the child or grandchild meets the super visa income requirement (LICO).

• Applicants must convince immigration officers they will leave Canada at the end of their visit.

Super Visa Requirements: Documentation Checklist

To ensure a successful application, all required documentation must be complete and accurate:

• Valid passport with at least one blank page.

• Letter of invitation from your child/grandchild in Canada, including proof of their Canadian citizenship or PR.

• Documents proving the family relationship (birth certificates, citizenship cards).

• Proof of income to meet the LICO threshold.

• Proof of Canadian medical insurance providing coverage of at least $100,000.

• Results of the medical exam.

• Completed and signed IMM5257 (Visitor Visa application) form.

Super Visa Income Requirement (LICO)

One of the most crucial components of a Super Visa application is meeting the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO). This ensures that the host can support their visiting relatives financially.

The LICO depends on the number of people in the household, including the visiting parent(s). For example:

Family MembersMinimum Gross Income Required (CAD)2$44,2263$54,6304$66,7705$75,9426$85,5087$95,074

Documents to demonstrate this include:

• Recent Notice of Assessment (NOA)

• T4/T1 slips

• Pay stubs

• Employment letter

Super Visa Processing Time

The super visa processing time varies based on the applicant’s country of residence, seasonal demand, and completeness of documentation. Average processing times range from 30 to 90 days. Biometrics and medical exam clearance may add to this timeline.

To speed up the process:

• Submit accurate and complete documents.

• Complete biometrics as soon as requested.

• Respond quickly to any IRCC requests for additional information.

How to Apply for the Super Visa: A Step-by-Step Process Step 1: Check Eligibility and Gather Documents

Ensure you meet the criteria, especially for LICO and medical insurance. Collect all required documentation to avoid delays.

Step 2: Submit the Application Online

Visit the, create an account, and submit the Super Visa application online.

Step 3: Pay Required Fees

• Visa application fee: $100 CAD

• Biometrics fee (if applicable): $85 CAD

Step 4: Complete Biometrics and Medical Exam

Follow instructions from IRCC to complete these essential steps.

Step 5: Wait for Processing and Decision

Track your application status through the IRCC portal. Once approved, you’ll receive a letter of introduction and visa counterfoil.

Benefits of the Super Visa Over Regular Visitor Visas

• Longer stay period of up to 5 years per visit.

• Multiple entries over a 10-year period.

• Reduced need for frequent reapplications.

• Flexibility to travel between home country and Canada.

• Ideal for family reunification without permanent migration.

Canada Permanent Residency vs. Super Visa

While the Super Visa allows long-term visits, it does not grant permanent residency. Canada Permanent Residency offers access to healthcare, social benefits, and the path to citizenship. However, PR applications—such as through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)—are limited, lottery-based, and have long processing times.

Australia Permanent Residency: A Comparative Insight

For families considering global options, Australia Permanent Residency is another avenue. Unlike Canada’s Super Visa, Australia’s family reunification options are more restrictive and often require the parent to apply from outside the country. Australia also imposes higher income thresholds and longer processing timelines, making Canada’s Super Visa more attractive for immediate, long-term stays.

Y-Axis Immigration Consultations

Y-Axis is one of the most recognized immigration consultancies, offering services for Canada Super Visa, work holiday visas, and permanent migration options for both Canada and Australia. Their expert team helps clients with:

• Eligibility assessments

• Document preparation

• Real-time updates and support

• Application strategy

For work holiday opportunities in Canada, Y-Axis provides detailed guidance at, supporting applicants through every step of the visa process.

Final Thoughts

The Canada Super Visa is a golden opportunity for families to reconnect and spend extended time together without the burden of frequent visa renewals. By understanding the super visa requirements, adhering to the super visa income requirement, and staying updated on the super visa processing time, applicants can enjoy a smooth and successful visa journey.

Whether you're comparing options like Canada Permanent Residency or Australia Permanent Residency, the Super Visa remains a highly attractive, flexible, and accessible program for family reunification. For additional support, consider consulting with experts like Y-Axis Immigration, known for their professionalism, transparency, and high success rates.

Empower your dreams with Y-Axis, the top Immigration and Visa Consultant. Unlock opportunities at www.y-axis.ca for a brighter future.