Super Visa Insurance

Understanding Super Visa Insurance: A Guide for Canadian Hosts and Their Families

For Canadian citizens and permanent residents across the country looking to reunite with their parents and grandparents for an extended period, the Super Visa program is an invaluable resource. A critical and mandatory component of a successful Super Visa application is securing specialized medical insurance, commonly known as Super Visa insurance. This policy is designed to ensure visitors have comprehensive medical coverage during their stay, protecting both the individual and Canada’s healthcare system.

What is Super Visa Insurance?

Super Visa insurance is a private medical insurance policy that is specifically designed to meet the stringent requirements set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for all Super Visa applicants. Unlike standard visitor insurance, it offers a higher level of coverage for a longer duration, reflecting the extended nature of the Super Visa, which allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time. The primary purpose of this insurance is to cover any emergency medical costs that may arise during the visitor’s stay, ensuring they do not place an undue burden on Canadian taxpayers.

Mandatory Requirements by IRCC

To be accepted for a Super Visa application, the insurance policy must meet several specific criteria as mandated by the Canadian government:

Minimum Coverage: The policy must provide at least $100,000 CAD in emergency medical coverage.
Coverage Duration: The insurance must be purchased for a minimum of one full year (365 days) from the date of entry into Canada.
Scope of Coverage: The policy must cover healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation (the costs of returning the visitor to their home country for medical treatment or, in the case of death, returning their remains).
Proof of Purchase: Applicants must provide evidence that the insurance policy has been paid for in full or that a deposit has been paid for a monthly payment plan.
Valid Insurer: The policy must be from a Canadian insurance company or a federally approved foreign insurance company.

It is crucial to have proof of valid insurance available for review by a border services officer each time the Super Visa holder enters Canada.

What Does Super Visa Insurance Typically Cover?

While policies vary between providers, most comprehensive Super Visa insurance plans cover a wide range of emergency medical services, including:

Emergency Medical Treatment: Doctor’s visits, hospital stays (typically in a semi-private room), and surgical procedures.
Diagnostic Services: X-rays, ultrasounds, bloodwork, and other tests required for an emergency diagnosis.
Prescription Medications: A supply of prescribed drugs needed to treat a medical emergency.
Ambulance Services: Medically necessary ground or air ambulance transportation.
Emergency Dental Services: Treatment for an accidental blow to the face or for the relief of sudden dental pain.
Follow-up Treatments: Medically required appointments related to the initial emergency.

Key Considerations for Applicants and Sponsors

Pre-existing Conditions: Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions (e.g., high blood pressure, diabetes) is a significant factor. Most policies will only cover conditions that are considered “stable” for a specific period, which is often between 90 and 180 days before the policy’s start date. However, some specialized plans may offer coverage for conditions that have been stable for as little as 7 days. Full disclosure of all medical conditions is essential to ensure claims are not denied.
Deductibles: A deductible is the amount the policyholder must pay out-of-pocket before the insurance company begins to cover costs. Choosing a higher deductible can lower the premium, but it’s important to select an amount that is manageable in an emergency.
Cost: The premium for Super Visa insurance is influenced by the applicant’s age, their medical history, the coverage amount chosen (many opt for more than the $100,000 minimum), and the deductible amount.
Refunds: Most insurance providers offer a full refund if the Super Visa application is denied. If the visitor returns home early and no claims have been made, a partial or pro-rated refund is often available.

Securing the right Super Visa insurance is a non-negotiable step in the application process. It provides essential financial protection and peace of mind, allowing families to enjoy their time together in Canada without the worry of potentially debilitating healthcare costs.