The Canadian government has recently announced an increase in the minimum income requirement for the popular Canada Super Visa program, effective June 3, 2024. If you’re a Canadian citizen or permanent resident planning to sponsor your parents or grandparents through the Super Visa, it’s crucial to understand these changes to ensure a smooth application process.
What is the Canada Super Visa? The Super Visa is a temporary immigration permit that allows parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada for an extended period, up to five years at a time, with the option for a two-year extension. This visa provides a convenient alternative to the highly competitive Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) for permanent residency while offering longer stays than the standard visitor visa.
The New Income Requirement for 2024 Effective June 3, 2024, the minimum income requirement for Canada Super Visa applications has increased by approximately 6.8% compared to last year’s 3.33% hike. The new annual gross income thresholds based on family size are as follows:
| Family Size | New Minimum Gross Income for 2024 | Old Minimum Gross Income for 2023 |
| 1 person (your child or grandchild) | $29,380 | $27,514 |
| 2 persons | $36,576 | $34,254 |
| 3 persons | $44,966 | $42,100 |
| 4 persons | $54,594 | $51,128 |
| 5 persons | $61,920 | $57,988 |
| 6 persons | $69,834 | $65,400 |
| 7 persons | $77,750 | $72,814 |
| If you have more than seven people, then add this amount per person | $7,916 | $7,412 |
This minimum required income is calculated based on the most recent tax year’s T4/T1 or Notice of Assessment (NOA).
Proving your income to demonstrate that you meet the income requirement, you’ll need to provide acceptable proof of funds with your Canada Super Visa application. This can include:
- The latest Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the most recent tax year, or
- T4/T1 or Statement of Benefits for Employment Insurance, supported by additional documents such as employment letters, pay stubs, and bank statements.
Processing times and applying from within Canada the processing time for a Canada Super Visa application can vary depending on the applicant’s country of origin. For example, applications from India are currently taking around 51 days, while those from the United States are taking approximately 232 days.
It’s important to note that Canada Super Visa applications cannot be submitted from within Canada. The applicant (parent or grandparent) must apply and receive visa stamping from outside the country.
Extensions and Work Eligibility While the initial Super Visa is valid for up to five years, applicants can request a two-year extension before the end of their stay in Canada. However, Super Visa holders are not permitted to work in Canada during their stay.
Stay informed and prepared with the new income requirements in effect, it’s essential to plan ahead and ensure you meet the criteria before applying for a Super Visa. By understanding the updated guidelines and gathering the necessary documentation, you can increase your chances of a successful application and reunite with your loved ones in Canada for an extended period.
