When bringing your parents to Canada, you have two primary options: the Super Visa and the Visitor Visa. Both have benefits and requirements and choosing the right one can be daunting. At B-Town Immigration Services Inc., we are here to help you understand the differences and determine which visa best suits your family’s needs.
What is a Super Visa?
The Super Visa is a specialized visa that enables parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit Canada for extended durations. In contrast to a regular Visitor Visa, which typically permits stays of up to six months, the Super Visa is valid for up to 10 years and allows stays of up to two years at a time without needing to renew their status.
What is a Visitor Visa?
A Visitor Visa, also known as a Temporary Resident Visa (TRV), allows individuals to enter Canada for tourism, family visits, or business purposes. It generally permits stays of up to six months. To stay longer, visitors would need to apply for an extension.
Key Differences Between Super Visa and Visitor Visa
Length of Stay
Super Visa: This permits grandparents and parents to visit Canada for up to two years without applying for new immigration status.
Visitor Visas usually permit stays of up to half a year. Extensions are possible but require additional applications.
Validity Period
Super Visa: For a maximum of ten years.
Visitor Visa: The validity can vary but is generally up to 10 years, depending on the applicant’s passport validity and other factors.
Medical Insurance Requirement
Super Visa: This visa requires applicants to have medical insurance from a Canadian company covering at least $100,000 and valid for a minimum of one year.
Visitor Visa: This does not require medical insurance, although it is highly recommended.
Financial Requirements
Super Visa: This visa requires proof of the host child or grandchild’s financial ability to support the visitor, meeting the minimum of the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO).
Visitor Visas generally do not have a strict financial requirement, though applicants must show they have sufficient funds for their stay.
Application Process
Super Visa: This type of visa requires a more detailed application process, including a medical examination and proof of private medical insurance.
Visitor Visa: The application process is generally simpler, and medical examinations or insurance proof are not required unless specifically requested by immigration officials.
Which Visa is Right for Your Parents?
Choosing between a Super Visa and a Visitor Visa depends on your parents’ needs and your ability to meet the requirements of each visa. Here are some scenarios to help you decide:
Longer Stays: The Super Visa is preferable if your parents or grandparents intend to remain in Canada for an extended time (up to two years). It eliminates the need for frequent renewals and allows for more extended visits.
Short Visits: If your parents or grandparents only intend to visit briefly (less than six months), the Visitor Visa might be more suitable. It involves a more straightforward application process and fewer requirements.
Medical Insurance: If securing medical insurance is not an issue, the Super Visa’s mandatory insurance requirement might not be a hurdle. However, if obtaining insurance is challenging, a Visitor Visa might be more accessible.
Financial Ability: The Super Visa requires the host child or grandchild to meet specific financial thresholds. If meeting these financial requirements is complex, the Visitor Visa might be more feasible.
Deciding between a Super Visa and a Visitor Visa involves considering the length of stay, financial requirements, medical insurance, and the complexity of the application process. At B-Town Immigration Services Inc., we understand that every family’s situation is unique. Our experienced consultants can help you navigate these options and ensure a smooth application process, bringing your loved ones to Canada with peace of mind.
For personalized assistance and expert advice, contact B-Town Immigration Services Inc. today. Let us help you bring your family closer.