Super Visa for Parents & Grandparents: Financial & Insurance Rules
Vancouver immigration guide · Related: Study Permits
Sponsoring parents and grandparents for Permanent Residency (PR) through the annual lottery can take years due to high application backlogs. Fortunately, the Super Visa program offers a highly reliable, faster alternative.
The Super Visa is a multi-entry visitor visa that allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to 5 years at a time (with options to extend their stay by an additional 2 years while inside Canada), without having to leave the country.
However, to secure a Super Visa, the sponsoring child or grandchild in Canada must meet strict financial income thresholds, and purchase specific private medical insurance. This guide outlines the 2026 requirements.
1. Sponsoring Host Financial Requirements (LICO)
To qualify as a host, the child or grandchild in Canada must prove they have the financial capacity to support their visiting family members. You must meet the minimum income threshold, which is based on the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) plus 30%.
The threshold is determined by your total household size (including yourself, your spouse, your dependent children, and the parents/grandparents you are sponsoring):
| Household Size | Minimum Necessary Income (2026 LICO Guideline) |
|---|---|
| 1 person (Host only) | $29,380 CAD |
| 2 people | $36,576 CAD |
| 3 people | $45,000 CAD |
| 4 people | $54,630 CAD |
| 5 people | $61,960 CAD |
| 6 people | $69,870 CAD |
| 7 people | $77,780 CAD |
| For each additional person | Add $7,910 CAD |
Note: You must prove your income by providing your most recent Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA), along with recent pay stubs and employment verification letters.
2. Super Visa Medical Insurance Requirements
Because older visitors present a higher load on provincial health systems, the host must purchase private medical insurance for the applicant. The insurance policy must meet the following strict IRCC conditions:
- Canadian Provider: The medical insurance must be purchased from an insurance company registered in Canada. (Policies from travel insurance companies in the applicant's home country are not accepted).
- Minimum Coverage: The policy must provide a minimum of $100,000 CAD in coverage for health care, hospitalization, and medical repatriation.
- Validity Period: The policy must be valid for at least 1 year from the date the parent or grandparent enters Canada.
- Upfront Payment: You must provide proof that the medical insurance has been paid in full (quotes or unpaid policies will result in an immediate refusal).
3. The Invitation Letter & Document Checklist
As the host in Canada, you must write a formal Letter of Invitation that includes:
- A promise of financial support for the duration of their visit.
- A breakdown of your household size and proof of your income.
- A copy of your Canadian citizenship or Permanent Resident card.
- Proof of the applicant's scheduled immigration medical exam.
The Super Visa is an excellent way to reunite families in Vancouver. If you need assistance verifying your LICO eligibility, drafting a legally compliant invitation letter, or preparing the visa application, contact our Vancouver office today for professional support.