Canada has introduced a major policy change that makes it easier for parents and grandparents to visit their families through the Super Visa. As of January 28, 2025, applicants can now purchase health insurance from non-Canadian insurers, provided they meet specific requirements.

This update significantly reduces the financial burden on families and expands health insurance options for Super Visa applicants.

In this blog, we’ll cover:

• What is the Canada Super Visa?
• New health insurance eligibility requirements
• How to check if your insurer qualifies
• General eligibility and benefits of the Super Visa
• Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is the Canada Super Visa?

The Super Visa is a long-term, multiple-entry visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit their families for extended periods. Unlike a standard visitor visa, the Super Visa:

✅ Allows stays of up to 5 years per visit (with an option to extend for another 2 years).
✅ Is valid for up to 10 years.
✅ Offers faster processing compared to the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP).

To be eligible, applicants must have private health insurance coverage. Until now, this coverage had to be purchased exclusively from Canadian insurance providers.

New Health Insurance Eligibility Requirements for Super Visa

Before January 28, 2025: Super Visa applicants had to purchase private health insurance from a Canadian insurance company.

After January 28, 2025: Applicants can now buy health insurance from non-Canadian providers, as long as the provider meets Canada’s new regulatory requirements.

To be eligible, the non-Canadian insurer must:

✔️ Be authorized under Canada’s Insurance Companies Act to provide accident and sickness insurance.
✔️ Appear on the OSFI (Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions) list of federally regulated financial institutions.
✔️ Clearly state in the policy that it was issued in the course of its business in Canada.

All insurance plans—whether from Canada or abroad—must meet the following conditions:

• Minimum coverage of $100,000
• Valid for at least one year from the date of entry
• Covers healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation
• Paid in full or through installments with a deposit

Super Visa applicants must show proof of payment for their health insurance plan when entering Canada.

How to Verify If a Non-Canadian Insurance Provider Qualifies?

Step 1: Check if the insurer is recognized by the OSFI

• Visit the OSFI’s official website to see if the insurance provider is listed among federally regulated financial institutions.

Step 2: Ensure the insurer is authorized under the Insurance Companies Act

• If your provider is listed by the OSFI, you can email information@osfi-bsif.gc.ca to confirm whether they are authorized to provide health insurance for Super Visa applicants.
• Include as many details as possible about the insurer and specify that your inquiry is for the Super Visa.

Step 3: Confirm the insurance policy is issued in Canada

• Ask the insurer to clearly state in the policy document that it was issued or made in the course of business in Canada.

General Eligibility and Benefits of the Super Visa

To qualify for a Super Visa, the applicant must:

✔️ Be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
✔️ Apply from outside Canada and have their visa printed by a visa office abroad.
✔️ Take a mandatory immigration medical exam.
✔️ Have health insurance for the duration of their stay in Canada.

The host (child or grandchild in Canada) must:

✔️ Be at least 18 years old.
✔️ Meet or exceed the minimum necessary income requirement.
✔️ Provide a letter of financial support for the applicant’s visit.

If you only plan to visit for six months or less, you can apply for a regular visitor visa instead of a Super Visa.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is the biggest change in the 2025 Super Visa policy?

As of January 28, 2025, Super Visa applicants can purchase health insurance from non-Canadian insurers, as long as they meet Canada’s eligibility criteria.

2. Do I still need health insurance to apply for a Super Visa?

Yes. Every Super Visa applicant must have valid private health insurance covering at least $100,000 in healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation costs.

3. How long can I stay in Canada with a Super Visa?

You can stay for up to 5 years per visit with an option to extend your stay for an additional 2 years.

4. How can I check if my foreign health insurance provider qualifies?

Check if your insurer:

1. Is listed by the OSFI as a federally regulated financial institution.
2. Is authorized under the Insurance Companies Act to provide accident and sickness insurance.
3. Clearly states in the policy that it was issued in Canada.

5. What happens if I don’t have health insurance when I enter Canada?

Without valid health insurance, you may be denied entry into Canada. It’s crucial to have proof of insurance payment when you arrive.

6. Can I apply for permanent residency through the Super Visa?

No. The Super Visa is a temporary resident visa. If you want to apply for permanent residency, you need to go through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP).

7. Is there an age limit for Super Visa applicants?

There is no specific age limit, but applicants must pass an immigration medical exam to ensure they meet Canada’s health requirements.

8. How long does it take to process a Super Visa?

Processing times vary, but it usually takes between 8 to 12 weeks. However, applying from certain countries may result in faster or slower processing times.

9. Can I work in Canada with a Super Visa?

No. The Super Visa does not allow you to work in Canada. If you wish to work, you need to apply for a work permit separately.

10. Can I include my spouse in my Super Visa application?

No. Each parent or grandparent must apply separately for their own Super Visa.

Final Thoughts

Canada’s new health insurance policy for Super Visa applicants is a game-changer for families wanting to reunite. By allowing non-Canadian insurers, the government has made the process more accessible and affordable for thousands of applicants.

If you are planning to apply for a Super Visa in 2025, make sure to:
✔️ Verify your health insurance provider meets Canadian requirements.
✔️ Secure your proof of payment before traveling.
✔️ Meet all eligibility criteria to ensure a smooth application process.

For the latest updates on Canada’s immigration policies, stay tuned! Need Help with Your Super Visa Application? Contact our immigration consultant today to ensure you meet all Super Visa requirements hassle-free!