Starting January 28, 2025
Parents and grandparents applying for Canada’s Super Visa can now buy health insurance from international companies, not just Canadian ones. This change makes it simpler for families to reunite in Canada.
Before, only Canadian insurance companies could provide the health coverage required for the Super Visa. Now, applicants can choose non-Canadian insurance providers if they meet specific requirements. Let’s break it down so it’s easy to understand.
What is the Super Visa?
The Super Visa is a special visa for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows them to visit Canada for longer periods. Super Visa holders can:
- Stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time (with an option to extend for 2 more years).
- Enter Canada multiple times during its validity.
Unlike the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), which is a permanent residency pathway, the Super Visa offers a quicker and more certain way for families to reunite. The PGP has a lottery system and takes longer.
What’s the New Rule About Health Insurance?
Health insurance is mandatory for the Super Visa to ensure visitors can pay for any medical expenses in Canada. With the new rule:
- You can now buy health insurance from international companies (not just Canadian ones).
- The insurance must still meet Canadian government requirements.
What Are the Health Insurance Requirements?
No matter where you buy your health insurance, it must:
- Be valid for at least one year from the date you enter Canada.
- Cover:
- Healthcare
- Hospitalization
- Repatriation (returning you to your home country in case of emergencies).
- Offer a minimum coverage of $100,000 CAD.
- Be fully paid or have a deposit made (if paying in installments).
How to Choose an Eligible Insurance Provider
If you want to use a non-Canadian insurance provider, here are the steps:
1. Check if the Insurance Company is Approved
The company must:
- Be authorized by Canada’s Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI).
- Be listed on the OSFI’s list of federally regulated financial institutions.
You can find this list on the OSFI’s website.
2. Confirm They Are Allowed to Provide Coverage
Email the OSFI (information@osfi-bsif.gc.ca) to confirm if the company is approved. Include details about the insurance provider and mention you need this for a Super Visa.
3. Ensure the Policy Meets Canadian Requirements
The policy must clearly state that it was issued as part of the insurance company’s business in Canada. Ask your insurance provider to confirm this upfront.
What Documents Do You Need to Show at the Border?
When entering Canada with a Super Visa, you must show:
- Proof of your health insurance plan and payment.
- A copy of your visa and other required documents.
Who is Eligible for the Super Visa?
To qualify for a Super Visa, you need:
A Host in Canada:
Your child or grandchild in Canada must:
- Be a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Meet the minimum income requirement to support you.
- Provide a written promise to financially support you during your stay.
Your Requirements:
You must:
- Apply for the Super Visa from outside Canada.
- Be admissible to Canada.
- Pass an immigration medical exam.
- Have the required health insurance.
Why Choose the Super Visa?
The Super Visa is an excellent choice if you want to:
- Spend extended time with your family in Canada.
- Avoid the long and uncertain PGP lottery process.
- Have flexibility with multiple entries over several years.
Need Help Applying?
At Ask Kubeir, we specialize in helping families bring their loved ones to Canada. If you have questions about the Super Visa or need help choosing the right health insurance, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.
Contact us today for expert advice and support!
📌 If you believe your VISA application should be showcased in the most favorable light when submitting to immigration, feel free to book our services.
📌 To book an appointment with Kubeir – Licensed Canadian Immigration Consultant, click the “Book Appointment”
📲 You may also reach us at this number for all immigration-related services:
- (+𝟭) 𝟰𝟯𝟳-𝟳𝟳𝟳-𝟯𝟳𝟳𝟳 (Canada)
- +971 45 26 4646 (Dubai)
Disclaimer: This is for informational purposes only and not legal advice. Always consult experts like us or the official IRCC website for up-to-date details.