Canadian citizens / permanent residents may bring their parents and grandparents to Canada through one of two programs: Family Class sponsorship and/or the Super Visa.
The Family Class sponsorship program includes an immigration stream for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents. To be eligible for this program, the sponsor in Canada must meet the following requirements:
Sponsors are required to prove that they meet the minimum income requirements by submitting notices of assessment issued by Canadian Revenue Agency (CRA) in support of their sponsorship and they must also demonstrate they have met the minimum necessary income level for three consecutive years.
Super Visa Program
The Super Visa Program allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens/ Permanent Residents to come to Canada as long-term visitors. Successful applicants receive multiple-entry visitor visas that may last for up to 10 years. Unlike the regular visitor visas, which must be renewed every six months, a Super Visa remains valid for a two years period at one time.
To be eligible for the Super Visa program, parents and grandparents must, besides meeting the regular visitor visa requirements, also meet the following requirements:
- Provide a written commitment of financial support from their child or grandchild in Canada;
- Show that the sponsor in Canada meets minimum income requirements;
- Prove they have purchased Canadian health insurance for at least one year; and
- Complete an immigration medical examination.
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