Yes, Canada offers a specific type of visa, known as the Super Visa, that allows eligible individuals to stay for up to five years at a time when visiting their children or grandchildren in Canada. While the maximum stay per entry is up to five years, the Super Visa itself provides multiple entries for a period of up to 10 years.
This long-term option is distinct from a regular visitor visa, which typically permits a maximum stay of six months per entry.
Understanding Canada's Super Visa
The Super Visa is a specialized, multi-entry temporary resident visa designed specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows for extended visits to Canada, fostering stronger family connections.
Key Features of the Super Visa:
- Extended Stay: It allows you to stay in Canada for up to five years per visit, significantly longer than a standard visitor visa.
- Multiple Entries: The visa is valid for multiple entries for a period of up to 10 years, meaning you won't need to reapply every time you wish to visit within that decade.
- Purpose: Exclusively for parents and grandparents to visit their children or grandchildren living in Canada.
Who is Eligible for a Super Visa?
To be eligible for a Super Visa, applicants must meet specific criteria designed to ensure they can support themselves during their stay and have strong ties to their home country, indicating an intent to leave Canada.
Core Eligibility Requirements include:
- Relationship: You must be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident.
- Invitation Letter: Your child or grandchild in Canada must provide a signed invitation letter that includes:
- A promise of financial support for the entire duration of your stay.
- A list of all household members.
- A copy of their Canadian citizenship or permanent resident document.
- Financial Support: Your inviting child or grandchild must meet the minimum income threshold, known as the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO), for their household size. This proves they can financially support you during your visit.
- Health Insurance: You must provide proof of private Canadian medical insurance that is:
- Valid for at least one year from the date of entry.
- At least $100,000 in coverage for health care, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- Valid for each entry to Canada and available for review by a port of entry officer.
- Medical Examination: You must undergo an immigration medical examination.
- Intention to Leave: You must satisfy an immigration officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay. This usually involves demonstrating ties to your home country, such as employment, property ownership, or family commitments.
You must meet all these criteria to be eligible for a Super Visa. For detailed and up-to-date information on eligibility and application procedures, always consult the official Government of Canada website.
Super Visa vs. Regular Visitor Visa
Understanding the differences between the Super Visa and a standard visitor visa is crucial for choosing the right option.
| Feature | Super Visa | Regular Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Eligible For | Parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. | General visitors (tourists, business visitors, etc.). |
| Maximum Stay | Up to 5 years per entry. | Typically up to 6 months per entry. |
| Validity Period | Up to 10 years (multiple entries). | Varies, often up to 10 years (multiple entries). |
| Key Requirement | Invitation letter, financial support from host, Canadian health insurance. | Proof of funds for stay, strong ties to home country. |
| Purpose | Extended family visits. | Tourism, short family visits, business meetings. |
The Super Visa provides a significantly longer stay duration per entry, catering specifically to the needs of parents and grandparents who wish to spend extended periods with their family in Canada without the hassle of frequent visa renewals.
