Visitor visas and the Super Visa, done right the first time
Whether you're visiting for tourism or bringing parents and grandparents for an extended stay, a well-prepared application makes all the difference.
Visitor Visa
Canada offers a generous visitor visa program for tourists and people visiting family. Applicants generally need to meet the following:
- Be in good health, and may be required to complete a medical exam from an IRCC panel physician.
- Hold a valid passport, proof of identity, and other required travel documents.
- Satisfy the officer that you have strong ties to your home country, which may include proof of employment.
- Satisfy the officer that you will leave Canada at the end of your authorized stay.
- Provide a letter of invitation from family or friends in Canada, where applicable.
- Have sufficient funds for the duration of your stay in Canada.
Visitors are typically authorized to stay for up to 6 months, though the validity of a given visa may be shorter depending on the case. Extending a stay requires a formal request to IRCC before the authorized period ends.
A visitor visa does not permit you to work in Canada unless separately authorized by IRCC.
Super Visa
The Super Visa is a long-term, multiple-entry visa that allows parents or grandparents to live in Canada as temporary residents for extended periods, with a processing time that is typically faster than a standard visitor visa.
Eligibility requirements
- Applicant must be eligible for a regular visitor visa (not inadmissible on criminal or medical grounds).
- Proof of relationship to a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Completion of a full medical examination before applying.
- Canadian medical insurance valid for at least 1 year, with a minimum coverage of $100,000 for healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- The Canadian family member must confirm citizenship or permanent residency and provide a letter of invitation, and demonstrate income above the applicable minimum requirement.
Frequently asked questions
How long can I stay in Canada on a visitor visa?
Most visitors are authorized to stay for up to 6 months, though the border officer may set a shorter period. You can apply to extend your stay from within Canada before your authorized period ends.
What is the difference between a visitor visa and a Super Visa?
A standard visitor visa is generally for shorter stays. The Super Visa is specifically for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents, allowing stays of up to 2 years per entry with a faster processing time.
Can I work in Canada on a visitor visa?
No, a visitor visa does not permit you to work in Canada unless you have separate authorization from IRCC, such as a valid work permit.