Canada Makes Super Visa Health Insurance Requirements More Flexible

As of January 28, 2025, Canada’s immigration department is making it simpler for parents and grandparents to visit their families. New rules now allow applicants to purchase health insurance from non-Canadian providers, as long as the insurer meets certain criteria.

Previously, only Canadian insurance companies could provide the coverage required for Super Visa holders. Now, parents and grandparents applying for the Super Visa have more options, making it easier to fulfill this important requirement.

Key Details About the New Health Insurance Rules

To be eligible, non-Canadian insurers must be authorized by Canada’s Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI). The insurer must appear on OSFI’s list of federally regulated financial institutions, and the insurance policy must clearly state that it was issued in Canada as part of the insurer’s normal business. This ensures that the coverage meets Canadian standards.

What to Look for in an Insurance Policy

All insurance policies, whether from a Canadian or a non-Canadian company, must:

• Be valid for at least one year from the date of entry to Canada
• Cover healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation
• Provide at least $100,000 in coverage
• Be paid in full or have a deposit if being paid in installments

When entering Canada, Super Visa holders must show proof of their insurance payment to the border officer.

How to Confirm Your Non-Canadian Provider’s Eligibility

• Step 1: Check the OSFI’s federally regulated financial institutions list to confirm your provider is listed.
• Step 2: Contact OSFI by email at information@osfi-bsif.gc.ca to verify the provider is authorized under Canada’s Insurance Companies Act. Include as much information about the insurer as possible.
• Step 3: Confirm that the policy is issued as part of the insurer’s business in Canada, and ensure the policy document reflects this.
  
  

Understanding Super Visa Benefits and Eligibility

The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada for extended periods—up to five years at a time, with a two-year extension option. This visa offers a faster and more reliable way for families to reunite compared to the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), which involves a lottery system and a longer wait for permanent residence.

To qualify for the Super Visa, you must:

• Have a child or grandchild in Canada who meets income requirements and agrees to support you financially
• Be outside of Canada when applying
• Pass an immigration medical exam
• Obtain the required health insurance for your stay
  
  

If your visit will be six months or less, you can apply for regular visitor entry instead of a Super Visa.

By broadening health insurance options, Canada has made the Super Visa more accessible, helping families spend time together without unnecessary barriers.