What are the insurance requirements for a Super Visa?
This is the checklist IRCC applies to the health insurance policy. Every line has to be true of the policy you submit.
| Requirement | What it means in practice |
|---|---|
| At least $100,000 of emergency coverage | Per traveller. A lower limit does not qualify. |
| Valid for at least 1 year from the date of entry | The year counts from arrival in Canada, not from the purchase date. |
| Covers health care, hospitalization and repatriation | All three must be in the policy. |
| Valid for each entry to Canada | The traveller needs valid coverage every time they enter. |
| Paid in full, or in instalments with a deposit | Proof of payment is required. A quote is not accepted. |
| Available for review by a border services officer | Carry the confirmation when travelling. |
Which insurance companies are accepted?
IRCC accepts proof of insurance from a Canadian insurance company, or from an insurance company outside Canada that has been approved by the minister.
A travel policy bought abroad from a company that is not approved will not satisfy the requirement. If you are considering an insurer outside Canada, check IRCC's page before paying.
What proof do I submit?
The insurer issues a confirmation of coverage after the premium or the deposit is paid. It names the insurer, the traveller, the coverage amount, and the policy dates. That document goes in with the application, and the traveller should carry a copy to the border.
What else does a Super Visa need?
Insurance is one part of the application. IRCC also looks at the relationship to the host, the host's income, a letter of invitation, and a medical exam. Those rules are set out on IRCC's website. I am an insurance agent and do not give immigration advice. For the application itself, use IRCC's instructions or a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer.
Common questions
Is $100,000 the amount per person or per couple?
Per person. Each parent or grandparent needs a policy, or a place on a joint policy, with at least $100,000 of emergency coverage.
Does the one year start when I buy the policy?
No. The policy must be valid for at least one year from the date of entry to Canada. You choose a start date that matches the planned arrival.
Will IRCC accept a quote while I wait for the decision?
No. IRCC states that quotes are not accepted. The policy has to be paid in full or by instalments with a deposit before you apply.
Do my parents need insurance again for a second trip?
Yes. The insurance must be valid for each entry to Canada. If the first policy has ended, a new one is needed before they return.
Sources
Written and reviewed by Sandeep Singh Pawar, licensed life insurance agent in Ontario. Last reviewed .