January 31st, 2025 at 06:44 am

Canada Loosens Super Visa Insurance Requirements to Boost Family Reunification

Canada has recently relaxed the Super Visa insurance requirements for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens. This significant update allows them to purchase private health insurance from international providers. It offers families greater flexibility while ensuring adequate coverage during their stay.

Families across Canada are celebrating this change. The new rules enable parents and grandparents to utilize health insurance policies from reputable foreign insurers. This shift moves away from the previous requirement of only using Canadian providers.

Understanding the Super Visa

The Super Visa is a multiple-entry visa designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. This visa allows them to stay in Canada for up to five years per visit, with the option for extensions. It provides a convenient alternative to regular visitor visas, which have shorter validity periods.

New Health Insurance Rules for the Super Visa

Previously, Super Visa applicants had to purchase health insurance from a Canadian provider. However, the latest update by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) now permits health insurance from foreign insurance companies, as long as the policy meets specific eligibility criteria.

Eligibility for Foreign Health Insurance Providers

To qualify for the Super Visa, a health insurance policy from an international provider must:

• Be issued by a company authorized by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI).
• Appear on OSFI’s list of federally regulated financial institutions.
• Be issued under the company’s insurance business in Canada.
• Applicants can verify if a foreign insurance company meets these criteria by visiting the OSFI website. More details on these changes are available on the IRCC website.

Health Insurance Requirements for the Super Visa

Super Visa holders must maintain valid private health insurance throughout their stay in Canada. If their coverage expires before departure, they must renew it to remain compliant. The policy must be valid for each entry into Canada.

To meet Super Visa requirements, applicants must have private medical insurance with a minimum coverage of CAD 100,000. The insurance policy must be valid for at least one year from the date of entry and can now be obtained from eligible foreign insurers.

Additional Requirements

In addition to health insurance, applicants must fulfill several basic criteria:

• Financial Support: Your child or grandchild in Canada must demonstrate they can financially support your visit.
• Letter of Invitation: You’ll need a letter of invitation from your child or grandchild, stating their commitment to support you during your stay.
• Medical Exam: A medical examination required.
• Canadian immigration authorities will also consider your ties to your home country, the purpose of your visit, and your overall travel history.

Benefits of These Changes for Families

These new rules simplify the process for families wishing to reunite under the Super Visa program. By allowing foreign health insurance providers, Canada offers more options and potentially lower costs. This requirement ensures that visiting parents and grandparents have adequate health coverage during their time in Canada.

Conclusion

Canada’s recent Super Visa update enhances flexibility for families while maintaining essential health coverage requirements. This change strengthens family ties by facilitating easier and more affordable long-term visits. It ensures that parents and grandparents can stay connected with their loved ones in Canada.