
Canada has always prioritized family reunification, offering various programs to bring loved ones together. A recent update in the Super Visa program has relaxed health insurance requirements, making it easier for parents and grandparents to visit their families in Canada. Let’s dive into what these changes mean for prospective visitors.
Understanding the Super Visa Program
What is the Super Visa?
The Super Visa is a specialized visa for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. It allows holders to stay in Canada for up to five years per visit without needing to renew their status. This makes it an ideal choice for extended family visits.
Key Benefits of the Super Visa
- Extended Stay: Stay in Canada for up to five years per visit.
- Multiple Entries: Valid for ten years, offering the freedom to travel in and out of Canada.
- Simplified Health Insurance Requirements: Recent changes make it easier and more cost-effective to obtain the necessary health insurance.
Health Insurance Rules: Then vs. Now
Previous Requirements
Super Visa applicants previously needed health insurance exclusively from Canadian insurance companies, with policies meeting these criteria:
- Coverage for at least one year.
- A minimum coverage amount of $100,000.
- Must include healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation coverage.
- Proof of full payment for the policy before applying.
What’s New?
As of January 28, 2025, the Canadian government has approved the inclusion of non-Canadian insurance providers. Applicants can now purchase policies from eligible foreign insurers that meet Canadian standards.
Criteria for Non-Canadian Insurance Providers
To ensure quality and compliance, foreign insurers must meet the following requirements:
- Authorization by the OSFI
- The Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) regulates financial institutions in Canada.
- Insurers must be authorized under the Insurance Companies Act to offer accident and sickness insurance.
- Listing on OSFI’s Recognized Institutions
- Applicants can verify eligible insurers using OSFI’s list of federally regulated financial institutions.
- Policy Issuance in Canada
- The insurance document must confirm that it was issued within Canadian jurisdiction and include the insurer’s identification.
Verifying a Non-Canadian Insurer
Follow these steps to ensure your chosen insurer meets the requirements:
- Check OSFI’s List: Confirm the insurer is on the list of federally regulated institutions.
- Verify Policy Compliance: Ensure the policy covers healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation, with a minimum of $100,000 in coverage.
- Obtain Proof of Insurance: The document must clearly identify the insurer and confirm its issuance in Canada.
Benefits of the New Policy
The updated health insurance rules bring several advantages for Super Visa applicants:
- More Flexibility
- Applicants can choose from a wider range of insurance providers, both Canadian and eligible foreign insurers.
- Cost Savings
- Increased competition may lead to more affordable options, helping families save on insurance costs.
- Simplified Application Process
- With more options available, finding a compliant policy becomes easier and more convenient.
What This Means for Families
The inclusion of non-Canadian insurers is a significant step toward simplifying the Super Visa process. It allows families to reunite more easily while maintaining the necessary safeguards. However, applicants must still ensure that their insurance policy complies with Canadian regulations to avoid complications during the application process.
Conclusion
The Canadian government’s decision to ease health insurance rules for Super Visa applicants reflects its commitment to family reunification. By expanding the list of eligible insurers, Canada provides families with more choices and potential cost savings. Prospective applicants should take advantage of this flexibility while ensuring their chosen policy meets all requirements.
This change strengthens Canada’s position as a welcoming destination for families, making extended visits more accessible and affordable. If you’re planning to apply for a Super Visa, explore these new options to make your family reunion a reality.
📌 Contact us today to check your eligibility!
📍 Level 3, The Offices 3, One Central, World Trade Center, Dubai, UAE
📞 04 526 4646 | 052 969 3030 | 052 824 4040
🌐 www.askkubeir.ae