Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents)
Parents and grandparents of Canadians who want long, multiple-entry visits without sponsorship.
The Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) is a Canadian visitor & short stay visa. This guide covers who it's for, the key eligibility criteria, the indicative 2025 cost (~CA$100 (visa) + ~CA$85 biometrics; plus mandatory medical insurance) and processing time (Varies by visa office (weeks to a few months)), the route to permanent residence, common pitfalls and FAQs.
Who the Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) is for
Parents and grandparents of Canadians who want long, multiple-entry visits without sponsorship.
No PR; it is a long-stay visitor option as an alternative to PGP sponsorship.
Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) - eligibility criteria
- Be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or PR
- Host meets a minimum income threshold (LICO)
- A signed invitation letter from the host child/grandchild
- Canadian medical insurance for at least 1 year
- Pass a medical exam and be admissible
Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) cost & processing time (2025)
The indicative government fee for the Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) (Canada) is ~CA$100 (visa) + ~CA$85 biometrics; plus mandatory medical insurance, with an indicative processing time of Varies by visa office (weeks to a few months). Figures are for 2025 and may change - confirm at IRCC (canada.ca).
| Type | Temporary |
|---|---|
| Where you apply | Online from outside Canada |
| Length of stay | Up to 5 years per entry; valid up to 10 years |
| Work rights | No |
| Study rights | No |
| Government fee | ~CA$100 (visa) + ~CA$85 biometrics; plus mandatory medical insurance |
| Processing time | Varies by visa office (weeks to a few months) |
| Route to PR | No PR; it is a long-stay visitor option as an alternative to PGP sponsorship. |
Pathway & next steps
No PR; it is a long-stay visitor option as an alternative to PGP sponsorship.
Many applicants also compare PGP · Parents and Grandparents Program, TRV · Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa), Spousal Sponsorship · Spouse or Common-Law Partner Sponsorship. Run a free VisaChief check to see which Canadian route best fits your profile, then prepare an application reviewed by a registered migration agency in our partner network.
Common Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) pitfalls we fix
Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) - frequently asked questions
How much does the Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) cost?
The Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) government fee is ~CA$100 (visa) + ~CA$85 biometrics; plus mandatory medical insurance. Figures are indicative for 2025; always confirm current fees at IRCC (canada.ca) before applying.
How long does the Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) take to process?
Indicative processing time is Varies by visa office (weeks to a few months). Actual timeframes vary with caseload, completeness and your circumstances.
Does the Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) lead to permanent residence?
No PR; it is a long-stay visitor option as an alternative to PGP sponsorship.
Can I work on the Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents)?
Work rights: No.
Who can apply for the Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents)?
Parents and grandparents of Canadians who want long, multiple-entry visits without sponsorship.
Sources & official references
This guide is compiled from official Canada government sources and is updated periodically. Eligibility, fees and processing times change - always confirm the current rules with the issuing authority before you apply:
- IRCC (canada.ca) - official Canada immigration authority