If you are planning to visit your children or grandchildren in Canada, you may want to consider applying for a Super Visa. The Super Visa is a temporary resident visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to stay in Canada for up to two years at a time. In this guide, we will walk you through the steps to apply for a Super Visa.
Check Your Eligibility
To be eligible for a Super Visa, you must meet the following criteria:
- Be the parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident
- Be admissible to Canada
- Provide a letter from your child or grandchild in Canada inviting you to visit
- Have valid Canadian medical insurance coverage for at least one year
- Pass a medical exam
Gather Required Documents
Before you start your application, make sure you have the following documents:
- A completed Application for a Temporary Resident Visa form (IMM 5257B)
- Family Information form (IMM 5707)
- A letter of invitation from your child or grandchild in Canada
- Proof of relationship to your child or grandchild in Canada
- Proof of medical insurance coverage
- Proof of financial support
Submit Your Application
Once you have gathered all the required documents, you can submit your application online or on paper. If you choose to apply online, you will need to create an account on the Government of Canada website and follow the instructions to complete your application. If you prefer to apply on paper, you can download the application forms from the Government of Canada website and mail them to the appropriate visa office.
Wait for Processing
After submitting your application, you will need to wait for it to be processed. The processing time for a Super Visa can vary depending on the visa office and the volume of applications they receive. Generally, it takes about eight weeks to process a Super Visa application. However, it is recommended that you apply well in advance of your planned visit to allow sufficient time for processing.
Attend Your Biometrics Appointment
If you are applying for a Super Visa, you will be required to provide biometric information (fingerprints and photograph). You will receive instructions on how to schedule your biometrics appointment once your application has been processed.
Receive Your Visa
Once your application has been approved, you will receive a letter of introduction from the visa office. You will need to present this letter along with your passport when you arrive in Canada. The immigration officer at the port of entry will then issue your Super Visa, which will indicate the duration of your stay in Canada.
In conclusion, applying for a Super Visa requires careful planning and attention to detail. By following the steps outlined in this guide, you can increase your chances of a successful application and enjoy an extended stay with your loved ones in Canada.