Should I switch my parents to a Super Visa?
We’ve been using multiple visitor visas for our parents to visit Canada, but now they’re older and we’re thinking about switching to the Super Visa. The idea of 5-year stays and fewer trips to renew sounds appealing, especially since the travel costs and stress of frequent applications add up.
But we’re not sure if it’s worth it. The income threshold for the host (LICO) is higher than we expected, and we’re worried about meeting it with our current salary. Also, the mandatory medical insurance must cover at least $100,000 per person per year — we’ve seen some plans that cost almost as much as a return flight.
Here are our main questions:
1. How common is it for families to be denied due to LICO income not meeting the requirement, even if they’re close?
2. What are the red flags to watch for in a Super Visa insurance provider?
3. Should we apply for the Super Visa *before* the parents’ next visit, or wait until they’re already here on a visitor visa?
4. Are there any provincial differences in how hospitals or clinics handle Super Visa holders during emergencies?
We’re also trying to balance this with our caregiving capacity. The longer stays mean less time between visits, but more responsibility when they’re here. It’s not just about visas anymore — it’s about sustainability.
If you’ve been through this, we’d love to hear your experience.
Could you share your province of residence, your current status (e.g., study permit, work permit, PR), and your timeline (planning for next year, already applied, etc.)?
No need to share passport numbers, UCI, or bank details — just general context so we can compare real-life situations. Thanks in advance.
But we’re not sure if it’s worth it. The income threshold for the host (LICO) is higher than we expected, and we’re worried about meeting it with our current salary. Also, the mandatory medical insurance must cover at least $100,000 per person per year — we’ve seen some plans that cost almost as much as a return flight.
Here are our main questions:
1. How common is it for families to be denied due to LICO income not meeting the requirement, even if they’re close?
2. What are the red flags to watch for in a Super Visa insurance provider?
3. Should we apply for the Super Visa *before* the parents’ next visit, or wait until they’re already here on a visitor visa?
4. Are there any provincial differences in how hospitals or clinics handle Super Visa holders during emergencies?
We’re also trying to balance this with our caregiving capacity. The longer stays mean less time between visits, but more responsibility when they’re here. It’s not just about visas anymore — it’s about sustainability.
If you’ve been through this, we’d love to hear your experience.
Could you share your province of residence, your current status (e.g., study permit, work permit, PR), and your timeline (planning for next year, already applied, etc.)?
No need to share passport numbers, UCI, or bank details — just general context so we can compare real-life situations. Thanks in advance.
A common pitfall is assuming the Super Visa guarantees entry. Border officers still have discretion, and past immigration history (like overstays or refusals) can affect approval. Also, the Super Visa is not a pathway to permanent residence—so if long-term settlement is the goal, this isn’t the route.
Another key point: if your parents are already visiting on regular visitor visas, switching might not offer much benefit unless they’re planning multiple long stays. Also, the process requires proof of financial support from you, so ensure your income meets the required LMIA threshold.
To help you decide: could you share the province they’ll visit, their current immigration status, and your timeline for their visit? Please avoid posting any IDs or...