Great news for parents and grandparents who want to visit their families in Canada. The government has just made it easier to meet the health insurance requirements for the Super Visa. This means more flexibility, lower costs, and a smoother process for reuniting with loved ones.
For years, Super Visa applicants had to buy health insurance only from Canadian providers. But starting January 28, 2025, applicants can now purchase insurance from approved non-Canadian providers as well.
This change gives families more options to find affordable and suitable coverage, making it simpler than ever to spend quality time together in Canada.
What’s changed?
Super Visa applicants can now purchase health insurance from non-Canadian providers. Before this update, health insurance had to be bought from a Canadian company. Now, parents and grandparents have more options to find affordable and suitable coverage.
Who qualifies as an approved Non-Canadian Insurer?
For a non-Canadian insurance provider to be accepted, it must:
- Be authorized by Canada’s Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) under the Insurance Companies Act.
- Appeared on the OSFI’s list of federally regulated financial institutions.
- Issue the policy as part of its business in Canada.
It’s important to note that insurance brokers and claims administrators do not qualify as insurance companies. Policies must be issued directly by an approved insurer.
Health Insurance requirements for Super Visa
Whether you choose a Canadian or non-Canadian provider, the insurance plan must:
- Be valid for at least one year from the date of entry.
- Be fully paid or have an initial deposit with installment options.
- Cover healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- Provide at least $100,000 in medical coverage.
Super Visa holders must show proof of payment for their health insurance when entering Canada.
How to verify if your Non-Canadian insurance provider is approved
If you’re considering a foreign insurance provider, follow these steps to ensure compliance:
- Check the OSFI’s List – Confirm that your provider is on the list of federally regulated financial institutions.
- Verify Authorization – Ensure your provider is authorized under the Insurance Companies Act. If unsure, email OSFI with your provider’s details.
- Confirm Policy Issuance in Canada – Your policy must include a statement confirming that it was issued as part of the provider’s business in Canada.
Benefits of the Super Visa
The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada for extended periods. Key benefits include:
- Stay up to 5 years per visit.
- Option to extend for 2 more years.
- More certainty compared to the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), which has a long waiting time and operates via a lottery system.
Who is eligible for a Super Visa?
To qualify, you must:
- Have a child or grandchild who is a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Ensure your host meets the minimum income requirement.
- Be outside Canada when applying.
- Pass a medical exam.
- Have valid health insurance for the entire stay.
If you’re planning a visit for less than six months, you may not need a Super Visa. A regular visitor visa might be enough.
Ready to Apply for a Super Visa?
Navigating immigration policies can be challenging, but you don’t have to do it alone. Sangam Immigration offers expert guidance to help you reunite with your loved ones in Canada.
Contact us today for a free consultation!
FAQs
1. Can I buy health insurance from any international provider?
No. The provider must be approved by OSFI and meet the necessary criteria.
2. What happens if my health insurance does not meet the requirements?
Your Super Visa application may be refused, or you might face issues when entering Canada.
3. Can I pay for health insurance in installments?
Yes, but you must make an initial deposit, and the policy should still meet all eligibility conditions.
4. How long does it take to verify a non-Canadian insurer?
OSFI usually responds within 15 days when you inquire about a provider.