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Preparing for Your Parents' First Visit to Canada
Inviting your parents or grandparents for a long visit is one of the best things about living in Canada — and the paperwork is much less scary when you take it in order. Here's the whole journey, step by step.
3–6 months before: the Super Visa application
- Write the invitation letter (your name, address, relationship, and a promise of support)
- Gather your proof of income — you, the host, must meet IRCC's minimum income for your family size
- Collect proof of relationship — a birth certificate naming the parent works
- Buy the medical insurance — IRCC requires proof of at least $100,000 in coverage from a Canadian insurer, valid one year, submitted with the application
- Parents complete the application (online or via VAC) and give biometrics if requested
Poli's tip
1 month before: flights and packing
- Book flights — and tell us the real arrival date so the policy start moves to match
- Request airline special assistance if helpful (wheelchair, escort through the airport — it's free)
- Refill prescriptions — ideally a 3–6 month supply, in original packaging, with a doctor's list
- Check the season and pack accordingly (see our winter guide if arriving October–April)
1 week before: the documents folder
- Passport + visa, printed insurance confirmation, invitation letter copy
- Your address and phone number on paper (phones die; paper doesn't)
- Medication list with generic drug names in English
- A little Canadian cash for the first day
Arrival day
Follow our friendly airport arrival guide — from the plane door to the arrivals-hall hug, it's simpler than everyone fears.
Frequently asked questions
What documents do parents need for a Super Visa application?
A Super Visa application needs an invitation letter from the child or grandchild in Canada, proof that the host meets the minimum income requirement, proof of the parent-child relationship (like a birth certificate), and proof of at least $100,000 in Canadian medical insurance valid for one year. Insurance must be purchased before the application is submitted.
Can I prepare the Super Visa application and insurance for my parents?
Yes — most families in Canada handle the paperwork on behalf of their parents, including buying the insurance. Use your own email and phone as the contact so confirmations come to you.
What should parents carry in hand luggage when travelling to Canada?
Passport with the visa, a printed copy of the insurance confirmation, the host's address and phone number on paper, all daily medications in original packaging, a doctor's note listing prescriptions, glasses, and a change of clothes. Important documents should never go in checked baggage.
Step one is the insurance — see real prices now
Compare Super Visa Insurance