Applicants applying for a super visa must have private medical insurance. Previously applicants could pay for insurance in monthly installments too, however, they were required to pay the annual up-front payments as well which was financially burdensome for families.
Therefore, IRCC decided to reverse the policy and people can now pay for the insurance in monthly installment.
Your medical insurance must match the following criteria:
- health care, hospitalization, repatriation coverage
- minimum of $100,000 emergency coverage
- valid for a minimum of 1 year from the time of entry into Canada and available for review during re-entry to Canada
2025 Update—As of early 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated its policies for the Super Visa, making the application process simpler and less costly for families wishing to stay longer in Canada.
A major change affects health insurance rules. Previously, applicants had no choice but to buy coverage from Canadian insurance companies, often at higher rates and with fewer options available.
Now, the government allows families to select coverage from international insurers—provided they meet specific Canadian regulatory standards. These international insurance providers must be officially recognized by Canada’s financial regulator, the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI), and appear on its approved list of institutions. Families can quickly confirm insurer eligibility by checking OSFI’s publicly available online database.
IRCC also revisited the issue of payment options for insurance. Earlier, applicants faced significant pressure because they had to pay an entire year’s premium upfront. To reduce this burden, monthly installment payments have been reintroduced. Families no longer need to make large, lump-sum payments; instead, they can manage their expenses more comfortably throughout the year.
Maintaining health insurance coverage remains mandatory.
Visitors holding Super Visas must have active and valid medical insurance during their entire stay in Canada. If their insurance is about to expire before leaving the country, they must renew or extend coverage immediately. This helps visitors stay compliant and protects them during unexpected emergencies without burdening Canada’s healthcare system.
The eligibility criteria for the Super Visa remain clear and practical. Applicants must be either parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. They need to provide documents showing that their Canadian family members can financially support them during their visit.
Additionally, an immigration medical examination is required, alongside proof of adequate medical insurance that meets the minimum requirements: coverage of at least $100,000 for emergencies, hospital stays, and repatriation expenses, valid from the moment they enter Canada.
These updates are intended to make it easier and less expensive for Canadian residents and citizens to invite their loved ones to spend extended time with them. By reducing financial pressures and increasing choice, IRCC hopes more families will have the chance to reunite and build lasting connections in Canada.
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