The question that many families living in Canada face is how to bring parents or grandparents. Should our visa be a Super Visa or a Visitor Visa? Even though both alternatives are open to having loved ones visit, there are certain distinctions, particularly concerning medical insurance. These discrepancies have become even more relevant in 2025 with the updates to insurance regulations and more expensive healthcare. In this guide, you will walk through what distinguishes these two visa types, with emphasis on the medical insurance rules that have been updated that you need to be aware of prior to applying.
Understanding the Basics
A Visitor Visa is a temporary resident visa that enables a visitor to stay in Canada for not more than six months in any single period. It is perfect for short stays, holidays, or visitation of family events. On the other hand, a Super Visa is tailor-made for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents. What distinguishes it from the regular H-1B is the length of extended stay; i.e., it permits eligible individuals to stay for up to five years at a stretch without having to renew their status every six months.
Although the duration of stay is the primary difference here, another significant factor that defines the difference between these visa types is the need for medical insurance, which is not just a matter of form but plays an important part in the Super Visa application.
2025 Updates on Medical Insurance Requirements
However, from 2025, the Canadian government still requires proof of private medical insurance as a condition for the Super Visa, but the guidelines have become slightly restrictive:
- The insurance must be from a Canadian insurance provider.
- The policy must provide a minimum of $100,000 in coverage.
- Coverage must include healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- The policy must be valid for at least one year from the date of entry.
- Proof of payment (not just a quote) is now strictly required.
This means that when applying for a Super Visa, families must be prepared with not only the proper documentation but also a paid-in-full insurance plan that meets all these conditions. Quotes or partial payments no longer suffice.
By contrast, Visitor Visas do not require mandatory medical insurance for approval. However, it is strongly recommended, especially for elderly visitors, due to Canada’s high out-of-pocket healthcare costs for non-residents.
Why the Super Visa Comes With Stricter Insurance Conditions
The primary reason for the strict insurance requirements for Super Visa holders is the length of stay. Since visitors under this program can remain in Canada for several years at a time, the Canadian government wants to ensure they are not dependent on the public healthcare system, which is intended for citizens and permanent residents.
In contrast, Visitor Visa holders—because of their shorter stays—pose a lower financial risk to the system. But with increased hospital costs and growing wait times in emergency services, even a short visit can turn financially stressful without proper insurance.
Insurance Costs and Coverage Options in 2025
The cost of Super Visa insurance varies based on the applicant’s age, medical history, and the level of coverage chosen. In 2025, premiums have slightly increased to reflect the rising costs of healthcare services. For example:
- A healthy 65-year-old parent might pay between $1,600 and $2,500 per year for a $100,000 policy.
- An applicant over 75 with pre-existing conditions could see rates exceed $3,500 annually.
It’s worth noting that many Canadian insurance providers now offer monthly payment plans to make these policies more manageable. However, applicants still need to show proof of an annual policy that’s been paid or financed through an accepted plan before the visa can be issued.
Visitor Visa insurance, meanwhile, can be purchased on a weekly or monthly basis and often starts at around $2 per day for healthy individuals. The coverage amounts are usually more flexible, and applicants can choose lower amounts (e.g. $25,000 or $50,000), though this also means a higher risk in case of emergencies.
What to Consider When Choosing Between the Two
If your goal is to have your parents or grandparents stay with you in Canada for a long period—especially to help with childcare, participate in family life, or avoid repeated travel—then the Super Visa is usually the better option. Though the upfront cost of medical insurance might seem high, it’s often more cost-effective than having them exit and re-enter Canada every six months on a Visitor Visa.
On the other hand, if the visit is short—perhaps for a special occasion or holiday—then the Visitor Visa may be more practical. The insurance isn’t mandatory, and the total cost of the visit could be lower. Still, securing health insurance is a smart precaution.
One thing to keep in mind: Super Visa insurance policies often come with built-in options like 24/7 medical assistance, coverage for stable pre-existing conditions, and quick claim processing—features that aren’t always included in standard Visitor Visa policies.
Avoiding Common Pitfalls
In 2025, many families are still getting caught off guard by a few common mistakes in the application process:
- Providing only a quote instead of a paid insurance policy
- Choosing an insurer not approved by the Canadian government
- Selecting a plan that excludes repatriation
- Forgetting to check if pre-existing conditions are covered
To avoid delays or rejections, always consult an expert insurance provider or a trusted agency that specializes in Super Visa cases.
Conclusion
Choosing between a Super Visa and a Visitor Visa depends on your family’s needs and expectations. While both options have their benefits, the Super Visa provides long-term peace of mind—with stricter but manageable insurance rules. As of 2025, having the right medical insurance in place is more crucial than ever. So whether you’re planning a short reunion or a longer stay with loved ones, being informed and prepared will ensure a smooth experience.
Need help finding the right Super Visa insurance for your parents or grandparents? Contact Parents Super Visa today to get expert advice and flexible coverage options tailored to your needs.
