Canada Super Visa vs Visitor Visa
Which is right for bringing your parents or grandparents to Canada?
Two Different Ways to Bring Family to Visit
If you are settled in Canada and want your parents or grandparents to spend long stretches with you, there are two common temporary options: a regular visitor visa (temporary resident visa) or the super visa designed specifically for parents and grandparents. They look similar but serve very different needs.
The biggest practical difference is how long your family can stay per visit. A visitor visa typically allows stays of up to six months at a time, while a super visa is built for much longer stays. The trade-off is that the super visa comes with stricter requirements. Rules and thresholds change, so confirm current details before applying.
Super Visa vs Visitor Visa at a Glance
| Feature | Super Visa | Visitor Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Who it is for | Parents and grandparents only | Any eligible visitor |
| Stay per entry | Long stays, up to about 5 years | Usually up to 6 months |
| Entry type | Multiple entry, valid up to 10 years | Single or multiple entry |
| Medical insurance | Mandatory, minimum coverage required | Not specifically required |
| Income requirement | Host must meet a minimum income (LICO) | No formal LICO requirement |
| Invitation from host | Required from the child or grandchild | Commonly used to support the visit |
Requirements, coverage minimums, and income thresholds are updated periodically — confirm the current rules before you apply.
Super Visa Requirements and How to Choose
The super visa is a multiple-entry visa that can be valid for up to 10 years, letting eligible parents and grandparents stay for extended periods per visit. Applicants must show valid medical insurance — generally covering a minimum amount, for about one year, from a Canadian or approved insurer — and the child or grandchild in Canada must meet a minimum income level based on the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) and provide an invitation.
If your parents want short, occasional trips, a visitor visa may be simpler. If they want to stay with you for a long, continuous period, the super visa is usually the better fit despite its extra requirements. The exact insurance minimums, LICO figures, and stay lengths change, so verify the current numbers before deciding.
Do not buy medical insurance or lock in plans based on last year's figures. Super visa insurance minimums and LICO income thresholds are updated periodically — confirm the current requirements, and make sure any policy genuinely meets IRCC's conditions before you apply.
Frequently Asked Questions
Bring Your Parents to Canada the Right Way
Future Link Consultants (RCIC R506940) helps you compare the super visa and visitor visa, meet the insurance and income rules, and file a strong application. Book a free assessment to choose the best route for your family.