Canada Eases Super Visa Insurance Requirement: New Changes Explained

Canada has made significant changes to the Super Visa application process, making it easier for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to reunite with their families. Effective January 28, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) eased the health insurance requirement for Super Visa applicants, allowing them to purchase health insurance from international providers, making the process more accessible and cost-effective.

What is the Super Visa?

The Super Visa is designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows them to stay in Canada for up to five years per visit, with the option for multiple entries over a period of up to 10 years. This visa has been a vital tool for families who want to keep close ties with their loved ones across international borders.

Eased Super Visa Insurance Requirement

Prior to this change, Super Visa applicants were required to secure private health insurance from Canadian providers for at least one year from the date of entry. This often led to higher costs and complicated processes for applicants living abroad. Now, applicants have more flexibility as they can choose insurance from authorized international providers, broadening the range of options available to them.

However, the new insurance requirement still ensures that the chosen insurance provider is recognized by Canada. The insurance must come from a company authorized by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI), which oversees financial institutions in Canada. Applicants can verify the eligibility of their chosen insurer by checking the OSFI’s website.

Benefits for Super Visa Applicants

The easing of the insurance requirement offers several key benefits:

  • Increased Accessibility: Super Visa applicants now have access to more affordable insurance options from international providers, which may be more convenient and cost-effective than Canadian insurance.
  • Global Approach: The change reflects Canada’s inclusive approach to immigration, acknowledging the global nature of families and their diverse needs.
  • Simplified Process: Applicants can now renew their insurance from their home countries without hassle, ensuring continuous coverage throughout their stay in Canada.

Super Visa Eligibility

To apply for the Super Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:

  • Be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
  • Have a valid Canadian medical insurance policy (from either a Canadian or an authorized foreign insurer) that covers them for at least one year from the date of entry.
  • Meet the income requirements: The host (child or grandchild) must meet the minimum necessary income based on their family size, as specified by Canada’s Low Income Cut-Off (LICO).
  • Pass an immigration medical exam and be admissible to Canada.

Super Visa Processing Times

As of January 2025, here are the approximate processing times for Super Visa applications:

  • India: 125 days
  • United States: 249 days
  • Nigeria: 48 days
  • Pakistan: 75 days
  • Philippines: 133 days

Why This Matters

This update is a positive step towards making the Super Visa process more inclusive and affordable for families around the world. By easing the insurance requirements and allowing international providers, Canada is fostering stronger family reunification and simplifying the visa process for applicants. As a result, more families will be able to reunite and enjoy extended stays in Canada, contributing to the country’s commitment to family unity.

How ICC Immigration Can Help

If you are considering applying for a Super Visa, ICC Immigration is here to guide you through every step of the process. Our team of experts will ensure that your application is complete, compliant with the latest requirements, and submitted on time. We can help you secure the right medical insurance and meet all eligibility criteria, making your journey to reunite with loved ones smoother and stress-free.

Get in touch with ICC Immigration today for expert advice on the Super Visa process and how we can assist you with your application. Reunite with your family and make Canada your home!

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