Key takeaways
- Sponsorship for permanent residence is invitation-based, with limited spots
- The super visa lets parents and grandparents visit for up to five years at a time
- A super visa can be valid for up to 10 years, with multiple entries
- You must meet a minimum income and they need private medical insurance
- Insurance must cover at least $100,000 for at least one year from entry
Two routes
- Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP): permanent residence. IRCC invites a limited number of potential sponsors each year; check IRCC for the current intake.
- Super visa: a long-stay visitor visa. Available year-round and usually much faster.
How the super visa works
A super visa lets your parents or grandparents stay in Canada for up to five years at a time. It can be valid for up to 10 years, with multiple entries. They can’t include dependants on the application, and they may need to give biometrics.
Requirements
- You (the child or grandchild) must be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident and meet a minimum necessary income
- A signed letter inviting them and promising financial support
- Private medical insurance from a Canadian company or an approved company outside Canada
- Coverage of at least $100,000 for emergency care, hospitalization and repatriation, valid for at least one year from entry
Tip: Compare super visa insurance quotes carefully; deductibles and pre-existing condition rules vary a lot.
Planning the money side
Budget for insurance, flights and their living costs while they’re here. If you’re already sending money home to support them, a visit can change how much you send; use our budget calculator to plan.
General information, not legal advice. Check current requirements on IRCC.
