Canada's Super Visa: Invitations for parent sponsorship from May 21; extended visits for grandparents

Exciting news for parents in Canada! Starting May 21, 2024, Canada will begin issuing Super Visa invitations for sponsoring parents. Over the course of approximately two weeks, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) plans to extend invitations to approximately 35,700 potential sponsors from the pool of remaining "interest to sponsor" forms submitted in 2020.

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It's advisable for those who submitted an interest to sponsor form in 2020 to keep a check on their email for regular updates.For those who haven't submitted an interest to sponsor form in 2020, their parents and grandparents can still visit Canada for an extended period by applying for a super visa. This visa allows them to stay for up to five years at a time, with the option to extend their stay while in Canada.


To be eligible for a super visa, the person must be the child or grandchild of the applicant, who is a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or registered Indian. The super visa allows multiple entries for a period of up to ten years, with each entry permitting a stay of up to five years.

The Super Visa is distinct from a regular visitor visa, as it enables qualifying parents and grandparents to visit family in Canada for longer periods. Only biological or adopted children can invite their parents or grandparents on a super visa, and they may also invite their parents' or grandparents' spouses or common-law partners.

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For hosts who are registered Indians, only a Certificate of Indian Status is required as proof of citizenship or permanent residence. The host must also demonstrate financial capability to support the applicant during their stay, meeting or exceeding the minimum necessary income based on Statistics Canada's low-income cut-offs.
Additionally, parents or grandparents must provide documentation of valid health insurance from a Canadian or non-Canadian insurance company certified by the Minister of Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship. This new initiative aims to facilitate family reunions while ensuring the well-being of visitors and hosts alike.

This is one of the much-awaited events that people have been waiting for!