Super Visa 2025–2026: Insurance Changes and What Parents and Grandparents Need to Know

The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and PRs to visit for up to 5 years per entry. Effective January 28, 2025, IRCC now accepts private health insurance from foreign insurers — a significant change that makes the Super Visa more accessible.

This resource covers the Super Visa for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents — including its eligibility requirements, key rules, and the significant change effective January 28, 2025 allowing health insurance from foreign insurers to satisfy the insurance requirement.

The Super Visa is one of the most practical options for Canadian families wanting their parents or grandparents to spend extended time in Canada. Unlike a standard visitor visa, the Super Visa allows stays of up to 5 years per visit and is valid for up to 10 years. The change allowing foreign insurance has made it significantly more accessible and affordable — particularly for families whose parents live in countries where private insurance is cheaper and more accessible than Canadian-issued policies.

• As of January 28, 2025, Super Visa applicants may purchase private health insurance from insurers outside Canada — the previous requirement for Canadian-only insurance no longer applies
• The insurance must provide a minimum of $100,000 CAD in coverage for healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation
• The policy must be valid for at least one year from the date of entry to Canada
• Proof of insurance must be presented at the port of entry — applicants should carry their insurance documents
• The child or grandchild sponsoring the visit must meet the minimum necessary income threshold (LICO) and provide a signed letter of financial support