Canada’s Super Visa Just Got Easier: New Insurance Rules for 2025

Canada’s Super Visa just got a significant update, making it easier than ever for parents and grandparents to visit their loved ones. As of January 28, 2025, applicants can now purchase health insurance from non-Canadian providers. This change provides greater flexibility while still meeting the Canada Super Visa insurance requirements.

What is the Canada Super Visa?

The Canada Super Visa is a special long-term visitor visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit for extended periods. Unlike a regular visitor visa, the Super Visa lets visitors stay in Canada for up to five years at a time, with the option to extend their stay by an additional two years. This makes it an excellent alternative to the PGP, which offers permanent residence but involves a long and competitive application process.

Who is Eligible for the Canada Super Visa?

To be eligible for the Canada Super Visa, applicants must meet several requirements:

1. Host Requirements:

   • The host must be the applicant’s child or grandchild.
   • They must be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian.
   • They must be at least 18 years old.
   • They must meet the minimum income requirements and provide a written promise to financially support the applicant during their stay.

2. Applicant Requirements:

   • Apply from outside Canada.
   • Be admissible to Canada.
   • Undergo an immigration medical exam.
   • Have health insurance for the entire duration of their stay in Canada.

Canada Super Visa Insurance 2025: New Rules

One of the most significant updates for Canada Super Visa insurance in 2025 is the expanded choice of health insurance providers. Until now, applicants were required to purchase health insurance only from Canadian companies. However, the new rules allow applicants to buy insurance from non-Canadian providers, provided they meet specific criteria.

Non-Canadian insurers must:

• Be authorized by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) under the Insurance Companies Act.
• Appear on the OSFI list of federally regulated financial institutions.
• Issue policies as part of their business activities in Canada.

All insurance plans, whether Canadian or non-Canadian, must:

• Be valid for at least one year from the date of entry.
• Be fully paid or include a deposit with installment payments.
• Cover healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation.
• Provide a minimum of $100,000 in healthcare coverage.

Why the Change in Canada Super Visa Insurance?

The update to Canada Super Visa insurance rules reflects the Canadian government’s commitment to family reunification. By allowing non-Canadian insurance providers, applicants now have more options to find affordable and suitable coverage. This change also promotes competition among insurers, potentially leading to better rates and more comprehensive coverage options for families.

How to Verify Your Canada Visa Insurance Provider

To ensure compliance with the new rules, applicants must verify that their chosen insurance provider meets the required criteria. Here’s how:

1. Check the OSFI List: Confirm that the provider is listed as a federally regulated financial institution.
2. Confirm Authorization: Contact OSFI via email to verify the insurer’s authorization under the Insurance Companies Act.
3. Policy Issuance Requirement: Ensure that the policy is issued as part of the insurer’s business in Canada, clearly stated on the insurance document.

Canada Super Visa vs. Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)

While both the Super Visa and the PGP allow parents and grandparents to come to Canada, there are significant differences:

• Super Visa:

  • Temporary resident visa allowing stays of up to five years, extendable by two years.
  • Requires health insurance but offers faster processing times.
  • No lottery system—applications are processed year-round.

• Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP):

  • Offers permanent residence, enabling parents and grandparents to live in Canada indefinitely.
  • Limited spots with a lottery-based selection process, making it highly competitive.
  • Lengthy application and processing times.

The Canada Super Visa is ideal for families seeking long-term visits without the uncertainty of the PGP lottery system. With the updated Canada Super Visa insurance rules, it’s now more accessible than ever.

How the New Rules Benefit Families

The flexibility to purchase health insurance from non-Canadian providers offers several advantages:

• Cost Savings: Families can shop around for the best rates.
• Comprehensive Coverage: More options mean better chances of finding policies that match specific needs.
• Ease of Application: The broader choice simplifies the process, reducing the stress of meeting insurance requirements.

These benefits enhance the Canada Super Visa experience, allowing more families to reunite in Canada.

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