Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) released a notice stating that as of January 28, 2025, parents and grandparents applying for a Canadian Super Visa can now obtain private health insurance from non-Canadian insurers to fulfill the “proof of insurance” requirement in the Super Visa application process.
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What is a Canadian Super Visa?
A Canadian Super Visa allows the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit their families in Canada for up to five years at a time but are not mandated to stay for the full course. Applicants have the possibility of extending their stay if they continue to meet the necessary qualifications. One of the key requirements for obtaining a Super Visa is that the applicant must demonstrate proof of health insurance, as applicants are not automatically covered by Canada’s public healthcare system.
Changes to the Canadian Super Visa: Proof of Health Insurance
Previously, applicants for a Canadian Super Visa were required to purchase health insurance exclusively from Canadian providers. However, as of January 28, 2025, applicants are now permitted to use private health insurance from international companies. This change provides applicants with more options and financial flexibility, as they no longer need to settle for Canadian insurance which can be costly and not easily attained.
Insurance Requirements
According to the government of Canada, to be accepted, private foreign health insurance must come from a provider that is approved by Canada’s Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI). In addition to the approval of OSFI, in order to be approved for the Super Visa, insurance plans must be and remain valid for a minimum of one year from the date of an applicant’s entry into Canada. The plan must be paid for in full or paid in installments in addition to the deposit made at the time of purchase.
The insurance plan must provide at least $100,000 in healthcare coverage for:
- Repatriation (Emergency evacuation travel insurance)
- Healthcare
- Hospitalization
Super Visa Accessibility
By taking away the requirements of private Canadian insurance, the Canadian government makes the Super Visa more accessible to a broader range of applicants. By now allowing private insurance from non-Canadian companies, the process of acquiring a Super Visa is more affordable and streamlined, reducing the challenges associated with high-cost Canadian insurance.
If you are looking to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada, now is an excellent time to apply for a Super Visa. Contact us today to get started!
Written by
Mariam Baher
Immigration Journalist
Mariam holds a Bachelor of Journalism with a minor in English from Toronto Metropolitan University (formerly Ryerson University). Her early interest in the intersection of law and marketing has grown into nearly seven years of experience in legal marketing, where her journalism background brings a storyteller's perspective to strategic, engaging marketing initiatives within the legal industry.
