Super Visa vs. Visitor Visa: What's the Difference?
The Super Visa allows parents or grandparents to stay for 5 years per visit, with multiple entries for up to 10 years. A visitor visa is only for stays of 6 months or less. For long-term visits, apply for a Super Visa.
Eligibility
- Your child or grandchild must be a permanent resident, Canadian citizen, or registered Indian.
- You cannot include dependants in the application.
- You must meet income requirements (amounts not specified in the official source; check at the time of application).
- You must purchase medical insurance (coverage not specified; check at the time of application).
How to Apply
- Check eligibility: Ensure your child/grandchild meets the status requirement.
- Gather documents: Include invitation letter, income proof, insurance policy, etc.
- Apply online: Submit through the IRCC website, pay the fee (starting from CAD 100).
- Biometrics: You may need to provide biometrics, which affects processing time.
- Wait for processing: Times vary by country; check online.
Documents Needed
- Inviter's proof of status (e.g., PR card, citizenship certificate)
- Inviter's income proof (e.g., tax return, pay stubs)
- Applicant's passport
- Medical exam (if required)
- Insurance policy covering the stay
Common Pitfalls
- Incomplete applications: This slows processing or leads to refusal.
- Insufficient income: Must meet minimum; otherwise refused.
- No insurance: Mandatory; missing it leads to refusal.
- Dependants not included: Spouse or minor children cannot be included; apply separately.