Visitor or Tourist Visas

Canada offers two different types of temporary resident visas, Visitors Visas and Super Visas. Both are issued as multiple entry visas and are valid until the expiry of your passport.

 

Both visas are limited as to how long you can stay in Canada per visit. You can enter Canada as many times as you like as long the visa has not expired. 

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Short-term stays

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Visitors are allowed to stay in Canada for up to six months within twelve months from entering Canada unless decided otherwise by an officer at the border. When the six-month period is over the visitor needs to leave Canada. If the visitor needs to stay in Canada then the visa can be extended before the six-month period is over.

 

Visitors are not allowed to work on this visa. Studies in a program of fewer than six months in duration are allowed.

 

Biometrics are required as part of the application process.

 

Super Visa

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The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit their family in Canada for up to two years at a time. The stay can be extended for up to one year.

 

Parents or grandparents cannot apply for this visa themselves, they have to be sponsored by a Canadian citizen or permanent resident. The latter needs to prove the minimum income requirements at the time and provide a written financial agreement.

 

Applicants need to complete medicals and provide a police clearance certificate along with biometrics. Medical insurance with coverage of $100,000 for at least one year from the date of entry must be obtained as part of the application. Super Visa holders do not enjoy the free benefits of Canadian health care and are not allowed to work either.

 

Dependents of the parents or grandparents are not included in the application, they will need to apply for a Visitors Visa separately.