The Canadian Super Visa has remained a savior of Canadian citizens or permanent residents whose parents and grandparents would like to stay as long as possible with their children or grandchildren in Canada.
In 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced revised minimum gross income thresholds which is an increment of 3.9 percent compared to 2024.
Super visas are in the center of attention in the nick of time as the IRCC began issuing more than 17,000 invitations to permanent residency under Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) on July 28.
The brightest option is the super visa because in 2025 applicants will lose their chance to take part in the PGP program, or their interest in sponsor form was not completed in the 2020 year.
This article is a detailed, current SUPER VISA all-in-one guide with eligibility criteria, insurance requirements, application procedure, and some other important points that will maximize your chances to receive it.
As a possible applicant or a host in Canada, it is advisable that you go through this guide and as you do, you find that going through the process is made far easier.
What Is the Canada Super Visa?
The Canadian Super Visa is a multi-purpose visa that targets the parents and grandparents of the Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
As opposed to a normal visitor visa whereby a person can stay in Canada up to six months before having to renew his or her status in Canada, the Super Visa will enable an individual to stay longer, up to five years and the individual does not need to renew his status in Canada.
Moreover, the super visa holders can renew their stay by 2 years more and therefore after arrival into Canada, parents and/or grandparents will be allowed to remain until 7 years.
Depending on the passport validity, the visa may be up to 10 years long during which the holders can enter Canada at any time, multiple times.
Super Visa is a great solution to reuniting the family when it is not intended to become a permanent resident.
But not all the Canadian citizens or permanent residents are capable of sponsoring their parents and/or grandparents.
There is a minimum income requirement and it is accompanied by a great degree of eligibility, health insurance requirement and the intent to come back to the home country after a visit is established.
New Canada Super Visa Minimum Income Requirements for 2025
Among the most important changes in 2025, it is possible to note the change in the minimum gross income from hosts.
These are not only requirements since one will be able to host the parents or grandparents with the ability to afford them.
The thresholds in 2025 will include a representation of the economic adjustments and inflation that implies that they are 3.9 percent higher than in 2024.
Below is the step by step breakdown of the new income requirements, relative to 2024, depending on the size of the family:
Number of Family Members
2025 Minimum Gross Income
2024 Minimum Gross Income
% Change
1
$30,526
$29,380
3.90%
2
$38,002
$36,576
3.90%
3
$46,720
$44,966
3.90%
4
$56,724
$54,594
3.90%
5
$64,336
$61,920
3.90%
6
$72,560
$69,834
3.90%
7
$80,784
$77,750
3.90%
Each additional member
$8,224
$7,916
3.89%
How to Calculate Family Size For Super Visa
To determine if a host meets the minimum income requirement, the family size must include:
The Super Visa applicant(s) (e.g., the parent or grandparent).
The host (the child or grandchild in Canada).
The host’s spouse or common-law partner, if applicable.
Dependent children of the host and their spouse or common-law partner, regardless of custody arrangements.
Previously approved Super Visa holders sponsored by the same host or their spouse/common-law partner, if their visa is still valid.
Individuals previously sponsored by the host or their spouse/common-law partner, where the sponsorship undertaking is still in effect.
For example, if a Canadian citizen is inviting their mother and father (two Super Visa applicants) and has a spouse and one dependent child, the family size is five.
The host must demonstrate a minimum gross income of $64,336 in 2025.
Eligibility Criteria for the Super Visa
To qualify for a Super Visa, applicants and their hosts must meet specific requirements.
Below is a breakdown of the eligibility criteria for both parties.
Host Eligibility
The host (the child or grandchild) must:
Be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian under the Indian Act.
Be at least 18 years old and reside in Canada.
Meet or exceed the minimum necessary income for their family size (see table above).
Provide a letter of invitation that includes:
A promise to financially support the applicant for the duration of their visit.
A list of all family members included in the income calculation, with names and dates of birth.
Submit proof of their status in Canada, such as:
A Canadian citizenship document (e.g., passport, citizenship certificate).
A permanent resident document (e.g., PR card).
A Secure Certificate of Indian Status or Certificate of Indian Status.
The host’s spouse or common-law partner can co-sign the letter of invitation to combine incomes, provided they are also a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Applicant Eligibility
Super Visa applicants must:
Be the parent or grandparent of the host.
Apply from outside Canada and have their visa printed by a visa office abroad.
Be admissible to Canada, meaning they have no criminal record or health issues that pose a risk to public safety.
Complete an immigration medical exam with an IRCC-approved panel physician.
Provide proof of a valid health insurance policy (details below).
Demonstrate strong ties to their home country to prove they will leave Canada at the end of their authorized stay.
Not include dependents (e.g., children or grandchildren) in the application.
Super Visa Insurance Requirements
One of the minimum requirements of the Super Visa is the demonstration of having a private health insurance provided by an insurance firm or a foreign insurance firm certified by OSFI and working in Canada to offer health insurance to immigrants.
Be valid for at least one year from the date of entry.
Be paid in full or have a deposit with installments (quotes are not accepted).
Cover health care, hospitalization, and repatriation.
Provide a minimum coverage of $100,000.
Include a statement (for foreign insurers) that the policy was issued in the course of their insurance business.
Applicants must maintain valid health insurance for the duration of their stay in Canada.
If the policy expires before their departure, they must renew it.
Border services officers may request proof of insurance upon entry.
Other Considerations For Super Visa
IRCC evaluates several factors to ensure applicants are genuine visitors who will leave Canada voluntarily. These include:
Ties to the home country: Strong connections, such as property ownership, employment, or family, demonstrate intent to return.
Purpose of visit: The primary purpose should be to visit family, not to work or study.
Financial stability: Applicants should show they are financially secure in their home country.
Economic and political stability: The stability of the applicant’s home country may influence the likelihood of their return.
How to Apply for a Super Visa in 2025
Applying for a Super Visa requires careful preparation to ensure all documents meet IRCC’s standards.
Below is a step-by-step guide to the application process.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Applicants must submit a complete application package, including:
Letter of Invitation:
Written and signed by the host (and co-signer, if applicable).
Includes a promise of financial support and a list of family members for income calculation.
Proof of Host’s Income:
Last Notice of Assessment from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
T4 or T1 forms for the most recent tax year.
Pay stubs for the last 12 months.
Employment letter stating job title, description, and salary.
Bank statements or proof of other income (e.g., pension statements).
For self-employed hosts, a letter from an accountant confirming annual income.
Proof of Health Insurance:
A policy from a Canadian or OSFI-authorized foreign insurer.
Must meet the requirements outlined above (e.g., $100,000 coverage, valid for one year).
Proof of Medical Exam:
A document confirming a medical exam was completed by an IRCC-approved panel physician.
Proof of Host’s Status in Canada:
Canadian citizenship document, permanent resident document, or Indian Status card.
Proof of Relationship:
Birth certificate, baptismal certificate, or other official document proving the applicant is the parent or grandparent of the host.
Application Forms:
Completed IRCC forms, such as the Application for a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) (IMM 5257) and Family Information Form (IMM 5645).
Step 2: Apply Online
Super Visa applications must be submitted from outside Canada through one of the following platforms:
IRCC Portal: Sign up for the IRCC portal or use existing credentials if you already have an account with IRCC to submit your application online.
Step 3: Pay Fees and Submit
Applicants must pay the Super Visa application fee (typically CAD $100, subject to change) and any biometrics fees (if required).
After submitting the application, applicants may be asked to provide biometrics or attend an interview at a visa office.
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Processing may take different lengths of time based on the country of origin of the applicant and the amount of applications.
In July 2025, IRCC is expected to process Super Visas applications within a 90-120 day period, although delays may happen.
Super Visa (Parents/Grandparents):
India: 99 days (increased by 8 days)
United States: 102 days (increased by 29 days)
Nigeria: 61 days (reduced by 2 days)
Pakistan: 156 days (reduced by 3 days)
Philippines: 91 days (reduced by 8 days)
Applicants should check the IRCC website for current processing times.
Step 5: Prepare for Arrival
Once approved, the Super Visa will be printed in the applicant’s passport. Upon arrival in Canada, applicants must present:
Their passport with the Super Visa.
Proof of health insurance.
The letter of invitation from the host.
Border services officers may ask additional questions to verify the purpose of the visit.
Tips for a Successful Super Visa Application
To increase the chances of approval, consider the following tips:
Provide Complete Documentation: Missing or incomplete documents are a common reason for delays or refusals.
Demonstrate Strong Ties to Home Country: Include evidence like property deeds, employment letters, or family ties to show intent to return.
Ensure Health Insurance Compliance: Verify that the insurance provider is Canadian or OSFI-authorized and that the policy meets all requirements.
Double-Check Income Calculations: Ensure the host’s income meets or exceeds the 2025 thresholds for the correct family size.
Work with a Professional: If the application is complex, consider consulting an immigration consultant or lawyer (ensure they are licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants).
The Canadian Super Visa has been one of the most popular programs when it comes to parents and grandparents who wish to be reunited with their families back in Canada on long-term basis.
After changing the list of the minimum income requirements to the new 2025 versions it is essential that hosts should keep up with the new standards of the income needs and document them thoroughly.
Applicants can increase their success, by knowing the eligibility requirements, making a complete application and finding health insurance that would be compliant with the initial application.
To keep informed of the latest changes or to begin your application process, be sure to find an up to date version of the IRCC site or an IRCC licensed immigration professional.
Be updated, be prepaid and have fun in the company of your loved ones in Canada!
FAQ
Can I work or study in Canada with a Super Visa?
No, the Super Visa is for a visit and is not for immigration. Applicants are not eligible to work or study in Canada for a long time (more than 6 months).
Can I include my spouse in the Super Visa application?
Yes, a spouse or common-law partner can apply for a Super Visa simultaneously, but each applicant must meet all eligibility criteria, including separate health insurance policies.
What happens if my health insurance expires during my stay?
You must renew or maintain valid health insurance for the entire duration of your stay. Failure to do so may result in issues at the border or during future entries.
How long does it take to process a Super Visa application?
Processing times vary but typically range from 90–120 days depending on your country of application. Check the IRCC website for country-specific estimates.
Can I apply for permanent residency while on a Super Visa?
The Super Visa is for temporary visits, but applicants can explore permanent residency options separately, such as the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP), if eligible.
New Canada Super Visa Income Requirements Take Effect from July 29
The Canadian Super Visa has remained a savior of Canadian citizens or permanent residents whose parents and grandparents would like to stay as long as possible with their children or grandchildren in Canada.
In 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced revised minimum gross income thresholds which is an increment of 3.9 percent compared to 2024.
Super visas are in the center of attention in the nick of time as the IRCC began issuing more than 17,000 invitations to permanent residency under Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) on July 28.
The brightest option is the super visa because in 2025 applicants will lose their chance to take part in the PGP program, or their interest in sponsor form was not completed in the 2020 year.
This article is a detailed, current SUPER VISA all-in-one guide with eligibility criteria, insurance requirements, application procedure, and some other important points that will maximize your chances to receive it.
As a possible applicant or a host in Canada, it is advisable that you go through this guide and as you do, you find that going through the process is made far easier.
What Is the Canada Super Visa?
The Canadian Super Visa is a multi-purpose visa that targets the parents and grandparents of the Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
As opposed to a normal visitor visa whereby a person can stay in Canada up to six months before having to renew his or her status in Canada, the Super Visa will enable an individual to stay longer, up to five years and the individual does not need to renew his status in Canada.
Moreover, the super visa holders can renew their stay by 2 years more and therefore after arrival into Canada, parents and/or grandparents will be allowed to remain until 7 years.
Depending on the passport validity, the visa may be up to 10 years long during which the holders can enter Canada at any time, multiple times.
Super Visa is a great solution to reuniting the family when it is not intended to become a permanent resident.
But not all the Canadian citizens or permanent residents are capable of sponsoring their parents and/or grandparents.
There is a minimum income requirement and it is accompanied by a great degree of eligibility, health insurance requirement and the intent to come back to the home country after a visit is established.
New Canada Super Visa Minimum Income Requirements for 2025
Among the most important changes in 2025, it is possible to note the change in the minimum gross income from hosts.
These are not only requirements since one will be able to host the parents or grandparents with the ability to afford them.
The thresholds in 2025 will include a representation of the economic adjustments and inflation that implies that they are 3.9 percent higher than in 2024.
Below is the step by step breakdown of the new income requirements, relative to 2024, depending on the size of the family:
How to Calculate Family Size For Super Visa
To determine if a host meets the minimum income requirement, the family size must include:
The Super Visa applicant(s) (e.g., the parent or grandparent).
The host (the child or grandchild in Canada).
The host’s spouse or common-law partner, if applicable.
Dependent children of the host and their spouse or common-law partner, regardless of custody arrangements.
Previously approved Super Visa holders sponsored by the same host or their spouse/common-law partner, if their visa is still valid.
Individuals previously sponsored by the host or their spouse/common-law partner, where the sponsorship undertaking is still in effect.
For example, if a Canadian citizen is inviting their mother and father (two Super Visa applicants) and has a spouse and one dependent child, the family size is five.
The host must demonstrate a minimum gross income of $64,336 in 2025.
Eligibility Criteria for the Super Visa
To qualify for a Super Visa, applicants and their hosts must meet specific requirements.
Below is a breakdown of the eligibility criteria for both parties.
Host Eligibility
The host (the child or grandchild) must:
A list of all family members included in the income calculation, with names and dates of birth.
Submit proof of their status in Canada, such as:
The host’s spouse or common-law partner can co-sign the letter of invitation to combine incomes, provided they are also a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
Applicant Eligibility
Super Visa applicants must:
Super Visa Insurance Requirements
One of the minimum requirements of the Super Visa is the demonstration of having a private health insurance provided by an insurance firm or a foreign insurance firm certified by OSFI and working in Canada to offer health insurance to immigrants.
Applicants must maintain valid health insurance for the duration of their stay in Canada.
If the policy expires before their departure, they must renew it.
Border services officers may request proof of insurance upon entry.
Other Considerations For Super Visa
IRCC evaluates several factors to ensure applicants are genuine visitors who will leave Canada voluntarily. These include:
Ties to the home country: Strong connections, such as property ownership, employment, or family, demonstrate intent to return.
Purpose of visit: The primary purpose should be to visit family, not to work or study.
Financial stability: Applicants should show they are financially secure in their home country.
Economic and political stability: The stability of the applicant’s home country may influence the likelihood of their return.
How to Apply for a Super Visa in 2025
Applying for a Super Visa requires careful preparation to ensure all documents meet IRCC’s standards.
Below is a step-by-step guide to the application process.
Step 1: Gather Required Documents
Applicants must submit a complete application package, including:
Letter of Invitation:
Proof of Host’s Income:
Proof of Health Insurance:
Proof of Medical Exam:
Proof of Host’s Status in Canada:
Proof of Relationship:
Application Forms:
Step 2: Apply Online
Step 3: Pay Fees and Submit
Step 4: Wait for Processing
Processing may take different lengths of time based on the country of origin of the applicant and the amount of applications.
In July 2025, IRCC is expected to process Super Visas applications within a 90-120 day period, although delays may happen.
Super Visa (Parents/Grandparents):
India: 99 days (increased by 8 days)
United States: 102 days (increased by 29 days)
Nigeria: 61 days (reduced by 2 days)
Pakistan: 156 days (reduced by 3 days)
Philippines: 91 days (reduced by 8 days)
Applicants should check the IRCC website for current processing times.
Step 5: Prepare for Arrival
Once approved, the Super Visa will be printed in the applicant’s passport. Upon arrival in Canada, applicants must present:
Border services officers may ask additional questions to verify the purpose of the visit.
Tips for a Successful Super Visa Application
To increase the chances of approval, consider the following tips:
Provide Complete Documentation: Missing or incomplete documents are a common reason for delays or refusals.
Demonstrate Strong Ties to Home Country: Include evidence like property deeds, employment letters, or family ties to show intent to return.
Ensure Health Insurance Compliance: Verify that the insurance provider is Canadian or OSFI-authorized and that the policy meets all requirements.
Double-Check Income Calculations: Ensure the host’s income meets or exceeds the 2025 thresholds for the correct family size.
Work with a Professional: If the application is complex, consider consulting an immigration consultant or lawyer (ensure they are licensed by the College of Immigration and Citizenship Consultants).
The Canadian Super Visa has been one of the most popular programs when it comes to parents and grandparents who wish to be reunited with their families back in Canada on long-term basis.
After changing the list of the minimum income requirements to the new 2025 versions it is essential that hosts should keep up with the new standards of the income needs and document them thoroughly.
Applicants can increase their success, by knowing the eligibility requirements, making a complete application and finding health insurance that would be compliant with the initial application.
To keep informed of the latest changes or to begin your application process, be sure to find an up to date version of the IRCC site or an IRCC licensed immigration professional.
Be updated, be prepaid and have fun in the company of your loved ones in Canada!
FAQ
Can I work or study in Canada with a Super Visa?
No, the Super Visa is for a visit and is not for immigration. Applicants are not eligible to work or study in Canada for a long time (more than 6 months).
Can I include my spouse in the Super Visa application?
Yes, a spouse or common-law partner can apply for a Super Visa simultaneously, but each applicant must meet all eligibility criteria, including separate health insurance policies.
What happens if my health insurance expires during my stay?
You must renew or maintain valid health insurance for the entire duration of your stay. Failure to do so may result in issues at the border or during future entries.
How long does it take to process a Super Visa application?
Processing times vary but typically range from 90–120 days depending on your country of application. Check the IRCC website for country-specific estimates.
Can I apply for permanent residency while on a Super Visa?
The Super Visa is for temporary visits, but applicants can explore permanent residency options separately, such as the Parent and Grandparent Program (PGP), if eligible.
Author: Shubham
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