Canada Expands Super Visa Health Insurance Options: A Game Changer for Families!
Starting January 28, 2025, Canada is making it easier for parents and grandparents to visit their loved ones by expanding health insurance options for the Super Visa. No longer restricted to Canadian insurance providers, applicants can now purchase health insurance from authorized non-Canadian insurers to meet the mandatory coverage requirement.
What This Means for Families
The Super Visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to stay in Canada for extended periods—up to five years at a time, with the option to extend for two more years. This new change removes a significant financial and logistical hurdle, making family reunification smoother than ever before.
Who Qualifies as an Eligible Non-Canadian Insurance Provider?
To be recognized for Super Visa health coverage, a non-Canadian insurer must:
- Be authorized by Canada’s Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) under the Insurance Companies Act.
- Appear on OSFI’s list of federally regulated financial institutions.
- Issue policies in the course of their insurance business in Canada.
⚠️ Important Note: Insurance brokers and claims administrators are NOT eligible providers under this new rule.
Super Visa Insurance Requirements
Regardless of the insurer’s origin, all policies must: ✔ Be valid for at least one year from the date of entry. ✔ Be fully paid or paid in installments with a deposit. ✔ Cover healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation. ✔ Provide minimum coverage of $100,000.
Super Visa holders must present proof of insurance at the border upon arrival in Canada.
How to Verify a Non-Canadian Health Insurance Provider
If you’re considering a non-Canadian insurer, follow these three simple steps:
1️⃣ Check OSFI’s List: Ensure your insurer is listed among Canada’s federally regulated financial institutions. 2️⃣ Confirm Authorization: Contact OSFI to verify if your provider is authorized under the Insurance Companies Act. 3️⃣ Verify Insurance Issuance: Ensure the policy explicitly states that it was issued or made in the course of business in Canada.
📧 For verification, email OSFI at information@osfi-bsif.gc.ca. They typically respond within 15 days.
Why the Super Visa is a Great Alternative to the PGP
The Super Visa is an excellent alternative to the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), which grants permanent residency but is highly competitive due to a lottery-based selection process. Unlike the PGP, the Super Visa offers:
- A faster and more predictable process
- Long-term stay without PR application delays
- Greater flexibility for families to reunite
Who Can Apply for a Super Visa?
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Have a child or grandchild who is a Canadian citizen or PR.
- Be outside Canada when applying.
- Pass a medical exam and be admissible to Canada.
- Have valid health insurance that meets the Super Visa requirements.
Additionally, the host must:
- Be at least 18 years old.
- Meet the minimum income requirement.
- Provide a written promise of financial support.
Final Thoughts
This expansion of health insurance eligibility for the Super Visa is a huge win for families, making it easier for parents and grandparents to stay in Canada without the burden of restrictive insurance policies. If you’re planning to apply, start by verifying your insurance provider and ensure you meet all the necessary requirements.
Reunite with your loved ones in Canada—now with greater ease and flexibility!
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