Heading 1: Obtaining a Canadian Family Visit Visa (Super Visa): The How-To Guide
As a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, if you have family members living outside Canada, you may want to invite them to come to Canada for an extended stay. This is where the Canadian Family Visit Visa or Super Visa comes in handy.
The Canada Family Visit Visa or Super Visa allows eligible parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to visit Canada for up to two years at a time, with the option to extend their stay for another year. This guide provides you with a step-by-step process to follow to obtain a Canadian Family Visit Visa (Super Visa) for your loved ones.
Heading 2: How to apply for a Canadian Family Visit Visa (Super Visa)
Before applying for the Canadian Family Visit Visa (Super Visa), you must ensure your loved ones meet the following eligibility criteria:
– They are a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
– Their intended stay in Canada is for more than six months.
– They have a signed letter from the Canadian citizen or permanent resident inviting them to Canada.
– They have a medical examination.
– They have medical insurance.
Once you have confirmed your loved one’s eligibility, you can follow these steps to apply for the Canadian Family Visit Visa (Super Visa):
Step 1: Prepare the application package
The first step is to gather all the required documents, which include:
– A completed Visitor Visa Application (Form IMM 5257).
– A Family Information Form (IMM 5645).
– A letter of invitation, signed by the Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
– The applicant’s passport, which must be valid for at least six months beyond the date they intend to leave Canada.
– Two passport-sized photographs that meet the Canadian visa photo requirements.
– Proof of relationship with the Canadian citizen or permanent resident, such as a birth certificate or a marriage certificate.
– Proof of financial support for the visit, such as bank statements or a letter from the Canadian citizen or permanent resident confirming that they will provide financial support during the visit.
Step 2: Pay the application fee
The application fee for the Canadian Family Visit Visa (Super Visa) is CAD $100 per applicant. You can pay the fee online or in person at a Visa Application Centre (VAC).
Step 3: Apply online or in person
You can apply for the Canadian Family Visit Visa (Super Visa) online through the Government of Canada website or in person at a VAC. If you choose to apply online, you will need to create an account and follow the instructions provided. If you prefer to apply in person, you will need to book an appointment at a VAC and bring your completed application package and supporting documents.
Step 4: Attend a biometric appointment
Once your application has been submitted, you will need to attend a biometric appointment to have your fingerprints and photograph taken. This is a mandatory requirement for all applicants who are between the ages of 14 and 79.
Step 5: Wait for processing
After your biometric appointment, you will need to wait for your application to be processed. The processing time for the Canadian Family Visit Visa (Super Visa) varies depending on the country where the application is submitted. You can check the processing times on the Government of Canada website.
Step 6: Receive a decision
Once your application has been processed, you will receive a decision. If your application is approved, you will be issued a Canadian Family Visit Visa (Super Visa), which will be valid for up to ten years. If your application is refused, you will receive a letter explaining the reasons for the refusal.
Heading 3: Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: How long can my loved one stay in Canada on a Super Visa?
A: Your loved one can stay in Canada for up to two years on a Super Visa, with the option to extend their stay for another year.
Q: Is medical insurance mandatory for a Super Visa?
A: Yes, medical insurance is mandatory for a Super Visa. Your loved one must have valid medical insurance coverage for at least one year from a Canadian insurance company.
Q: Can I sponsor my family member’s Super Visa application?
A: No, you cannot sponsor your family member’s Super Visa application. However, you can provide a letter of invitation, confirming that you will support them financially during their stay in Canada.
Q: How long does it take to process a Super Visa application?
A: The processing time for a Super Visa application varies depending on the country where the application is submitted. You can check the processing times on the Government of Canada website.
Q: Can my family member work in Canada on a Super Visa?
A: No, your family member cannot work in Canada on a Super Visa. The Super Visa is for visiting purposes only. If your family member wants to work in Canada, they will need to obtain a work permit.
In conclusion, obtaining a Canadian Family Visit Visa (Super Visa) for your loved ones is a simple process. By following the step-by-step guide provided, you can ensure that your loved ones are able to visit and stay with you in Canada for an extended period.