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The Super Visa is a popular option that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents to stay in Canada for up to 10 years with multiple entries and up to five years per visit. But unlike Canadian residents, Super Visa holders aren’t covered under provincial health plans. This makes insurance for Super Visa Canada not just beneficial—it’s mandatory.

A Super Visa Insurance policy must offer at least CAD $100,000 in medical emergency coverage, be valid for a minimum of 12 months, and be issued by a Canadian‑regulated insurer. This article details what that coverage includes, why it’s essential, and how to make the best choice. It’s written with parents, guardians, and sponsors in mind—offering clarity, depth, and actionable advice.

Why You Absolutely Need Super Visa Insurance

1. High Costs of Medical Care in Canada

Canada’s world‑class healthcare is only free for permanent residents and citizens. A single hospital stay can cost CAD $10,000 to $100,000+ for visitors.

Here are common costs for those without coverage:

2. A Mandatory Requirement

To receive a Super Visa, applicants must present proof of medical insurance that:

Covers at least CAD $100,000 in emergency and hospital expenses,

Is valid for at least one year,

Includes repatriation, and

Comes from an OSFI‑regulated Canadian insurer (or internationally, under strict OSFI rules)

What Does “Medical Emergency Coverage” Actually Include?

Core Components

Emergency Medical & Hospitalization: Includes coverage for inpatient stays, surgeries, and ER visits.

Ambulance Services: Air ambulances and ground ambulances are included when medically required.

MRIs, CT scans, blood tests, X-rays, and ultrasounds are examples of diagnostic testing.

Emergency Prescription Drugs: Prescription drugs that are usually given in 30-day quantities during hospital stays or ER visits

Emergency Dental Care: In cases of unexpected pain or trauma

Crutches, wheelchairs, private-duty nursing, and follow-up home care are examples of medical equipment and home care. 

Repatriation Benefits: Covering cost to return home or return remains, along with funeral or cremation 

Accidental Death & Dismemberment: Available with some policies, offering lump‑sum payments 

Extended or Optional Coverage

Pre-existing Conditions: If a patient has stable conditions (such diabetes or hypertension) and has not experienced any symptoms for 90 to 180 days before traveling, many insurers will cover them.

Comprehensive plans include home care, companion accommodations, and semi-private and private room upgrades. 

What’s Not Covered by Super Visa Insurance

• Routine check‑ups, preventive care, and cosmetic procedures .

• Planned dental/vision care, orthodontics, and optional dental services .

• Experimental treatments and clinical trials .

• Injuries from high‑risk sports, alcohol, or illicit activities .

• Non‑medical (non‑emergency) travel, day‑tour claims, or medical procedures planned in advance .

Choosing the Right Policy: Key Factors

Coverage Limit

• Minimum: CAD $100,000.

• Many opt for CAD $200,000–1,000,000 for greater security

Duration

• Must cover the visitor from the entry date for at least 365 days.

• Most insurers renew annually; coverage gaps can void entry rights

Deductibles

• Options: $0, $500, $1,000, or more.

• Larger deductibles reduce premiums but increase out‑of‑pocket costs

Network & Flexibility

• Some policies come with a preferred provider network (PPN), offering full coverage at certain hospitals, but may restrict choices

Age & Health Conditions

• Premiums increase with age; older applicants typically pay significantly more.

• Disclose all medical conditions; dishonesty can lead to claim denials or policy cancellation.

Refund & Cancellation Policies

• Full refunds if the visa is denied or the policy hasn't started.

• Prorated refunds possible for early departure with no claims made

Major Canadian Providers in 2025

Profile: Travel Shield

An example of a comprehensive plan offering:

Hospital admission and surgery; semi‑private rooms or ICU, ambulance and X‑ray coverage.

Prescription drugs and follow‑ups.

Emergency dental (up to $5,500) and medical tests parentsupervisa.ca

Common Mistakes to Avoid

Inadequate coverage (less than CAD $100,000) or incorrect start dates; failure to check network constraints, resulting in non-payment; failure to check pre-existing conditions; pushing out-of-network expenses; omitting refund/cancellation clauses; and failing to qualify for reimbursement.

Steps to Secure Super Visa Insurance

1. Compare quotes using keywords like “insurance for Super Visa Canada”.
   
   

2. Confirm your age, health conditions, deductible choices, coverage amount, and room/hospital preferences.
   
   

3. Purchase the policy before visa application or arrival.
   
   

4. Print your insurance certificate.

5. Maintain active coverage throughout the visit, renewing or extending as needed

Conclusion

Super Visa Insurance isn’t optional—it’s both a legal requirement and a protective necessity. It shields visitors from astronomical healthcare bills, meets IRCC criteria, and ensures families can relax and enjoy their time together in Canada.

When choosing coverage, focus on:

1. At least CAD $100,000 emergency coverage, preferably higher

2. 365‑day validity aligned with the visa

3. Clear terms around pre‑existing conditions and hospital networks

4. Transparent deductibles and refund policies

5. Buying from a reputable, OSFI‑regulated insurer

Use keywords like “insurance for Super Visa Canada” to research plans. Whether it’s Manulife, Travelance, or Travel Shield, pick a plan that aligns with your family's needs.