Super Visa is Good News for Many

Those of us with parents oversees can finally rejoice!
The new Super Visa was announced 5 months ago and many Canadians have jumped on the opportunity to invite their parents or grandparents to come visit them in Canada and stay for up to 2 years. The Government of Canada estimates that the time to process Super Visa is about 8 weeks, unlike the previous sponsorship applications, which took over 6 years. Also, unlike the regular visitor’s visa, parents of permanent residents and Canadian citizens receive a 10 year visa and can remain in Canada for up to 2 years at a time, without the need to renew.
In this article, we will try to shed some light and answer some of the common questions about the Super Visa process.

1. How to apply?
In order to apply for the parent and grandparent Super Visa you will need to submit the Application for a Temporary Resident Visa, which can be found online, to a visa office and provide documents to support your application.

2. What documents must be included with the application for the Super Visa?

• A valid travel document
• Two recent passport photographs of each family member. Make sure these photographs meet the requirements
• Application fee ($150 for multiple entry visa or $75 for a single entry visa)
• You must provide proof that your parents/grandparents have enough money for their visit to Canada
• Evidence of the parent or grandparent relationship to the Canadian citizen or permanent resident they wish to visit
• A letter of invitation from the child or grandchild that includes arrangements for care and support and indicates the number of people residing in their household in Canada
• Proof from you that you and your family meet the Low Income Cut-Off
• Proof of private medical insurance for the parents, valid for a minimum of one year from a Canadian insurance company.

5. Do my parents need to undergo a medical examination?
Yes, in order to apply for the Super Visa, they are required to undergo a medical examination. Your visa office will provide you with instructions and a form with your assigned number before you see a designated medical practitioner. Unfortunately, your family doctor cannot do the medical examination.

6. What kind of medical insurance are we required to get for the parents?
You are required to buy medical insurance, from a private Canadian insurance company that will cover health care, hospitalization and repatriation. The insurance has to be valid for one year and provide coverage of at least $100, 000.

7. What is the refund policy for insurance?

-In case the Super Visa gets refused, you can get a full refund from the insurance company.
-If your parents stay in Canada less than one year, you can ask for a refund for the remaining time, assuming there were no claims on file. Some insurance companies charge fees for cancelations, while others do not.

At Arbetov Insurance, we work with 6 different insurance companies and we would be more than happy to assist you by offering you the lowest quotes and provide you with crucial information. Please contact us by calling 604-875-8878 or by email arbetov.office@gmail.com and we will gladly  answer all your questions.