Super Visa Insurance Requirements: What You Actually Need in 2025
Bringing your parents or grandparents to Canada? Here's everything you need to know about meeting the insurance requirements without the headaches or confusion. It's easier than you think, eh?
Quick Answer (TL;DR)
To qualify for a Super Visa in 2025, your parents or grandparents need health insurance with at least $100,000 in emergency coverage, valid for a minimum of one year from their entry date to Canada. Since January 2025, you can now purchase this from either Canadian insurers or approved foreign providers regulated by OSFI. The policy must cover healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation, and it needs to be paid upfront (or with a deposit if paying in installments).
Want to know exactly how much it'll cost you? Our detailed cost breakdown guide has everything you need.
The Super Visa Insurance Requirements: Let's Break It Down
Look, we get it. When you're trying to bring your folks over from overseas, the last thing you want is to wade through pages of government jargon about insurance requirements. But here's the thing — getting this right is absolutely crucial, because without proper insurance documentation, your Super Visa application won't even make it past first base.
So what exactly does the Canadian government want to see? Let's cut through the noise and give you the straight goods.
Mandatory Coverage Requirements
- Minimum $100,000 in emergency medical coverage — This isn't a suggestion, it's non-negotiable. Many families actually opt for higher coverage (up to $500,000 or even $1 million) because, honestly, healthcare costs in Canada can be eye-watering if you're not covered by provincial plans.
- Valid for at least 365 days from the date your loved ones step foot in Canada — The policy needs to cover their entire first year here, plain and simple.
- Must be paid in full or with installments (with deposit) — You can't just show a quote. Immigration wants proof you've actually paid for the coverage.
- Coverage for healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation — These three elements are essential. The policy needs to cover doctor visits, hospital stays, and if worst comes to worst, getting your family member home safely.
- From an approved provider — This is where things got interesting in 2025. Keep reading...
Big News: 2025 Changes to Super Visa Insurance Requirements
Here's something that might make your life a whole lot easier: as of January 28, 2025, the Canadian government loosened the rules around where you can buy Super Visa insurance. Before this? You had to purchase from a Canadian insurance company, full stop. Now? You've got options.
The game-changer is that you can now purchase insurance from OSFI-approved foreign insurance companies. OSFI (that's the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions, if you're wondering) is Canada's financial regulator, and they maintain a list of foreign insurers authorized to do business in Canada.
Learn more about all the recent updates in our comprehensive guide to Super Visa changes in 2025.
Why Does This Matter to You?
Simple: more options usually mean more competitive pricing. If your parents are coming from India, the Philippines, or other countries with established insurance markets, you might find more affordable coverage while still meeting all of Canada's strict requirements. It's a win-win, really.
But — and this is important — not just any foreign insurance company will do. The insurer must be on OSFI's list of federally regulated financial institutions, and the policy document itself needs to state that it was issued "in the course of its insurance business in Canada." Don't skip this detail, or you could find yourself back at square one.
How Much Does Super Visa Insurance Actually Cost?
Alright, let's talk dollars and cents. The million-dollar question (well, hopefully not literally) is: what's this going to run me?
The truth is, it varies. A lot. Several factors affect the price tag:
Age Matters
The older your parents or grandparents are, the higher the premium. Someone in their early 60s will pay significantly less than someone in their late 70s or early 80s. It's just the reality of insurance risk.
Pre-Existing Conditions
Got diabetes? High blood pressure? These pre-existing conditions can bump up costs considerably. Some insurers require these conditions to be "stable" for 90-180 days before coverage kicks in.
Coverage Amount
While $100,000 is the minimum, many families choose $150,000, $300,000, or even $500,000 in coverage for extra peace of mind. Higher coverage = higher premiums.
Deductibles
Choosing a higher deductible (the amount you pay out-of-pocket before insurance kicks in) can lower your monthly or annual premium by 5% to 30%. It's a balancing act.
Ballpark Figures for 2025
| Age Range | No Pre-Existing Conditions | With Stable Pre-Existing Conditions |
|---|---|---|
| 60-64 years | $1,500 - $2,200 per year | $2,300 - $3,500 per year |
| 65-69 years | $1,800 - $2,800 per year | $2,800 - $4,200 per year |
| 70-74 years | $2,200 - $3,400 per year | $3,400 - $5,000 per year |
| 75-79 years | $2,800 - $4,200 per year | $4,200 - $6,500 per year |
| 80-84 years | $3,500 - $5,500 per year | $5,500 - $8,000+ per year |
These are rough estimates, mind you. Your actual costs could be higher or lower depending on the specific insurer, the exact coverage amount, deductibles, and any additional riders or add-ons you choose. Think of it as spending somewhere between $100 to $200 per month per person — or about $3 to $6 a day. When you consider the alternative (paying out of pocket for even a single emergency room visit could cost thousands), it's not so bad, really.
Want to get a more accurate estimate? Check out our Super Visa Insurance Calculator to see personalized quotes based on your specific situation, or compare different providers side-by-side to find the best deal.
What's Actually Covered Under Super Visa Insurance?
You might be wondering: okay, I'm paying all this money, but what do my parents actually get? Fair question. Here's what a typical Super Visa insurance policy covers:
Emergency Medical Care
Doctor visits, specialist consultations, diagnostic tests, X-rays, MRIs — basically any medically necessary treatment for sudden illness or injury.
Hospitalization
Inpatient hospital stays, surgeries, intensive care — the big stuff that can rack up serious bills quickly.
Prescription Medications
Emergency prescriptions related to covered medical events. Note: this doesn't cover routine medications for ongoing conditions.
Emergency Dental
Coverage for sudden dental emergencies or accidents (usually up to $25,000 in many policies). Routine dental care? That's not covered.
Ambulance Services
Ground and air ambulance transportation when medically necessary. Because let's be honest, ambulance rides in Canada aren't cheap.
Repatriation
If the unthinkable happens, coverage for returning remains to their home country, or medical transportation back home if needed.
What's NOT Covered? (Important Stuff)
This is where things get a bit tricky, and honestly, where a lot of families get caught off guard. Super Visa insurance is designed for emergencies, not routine care. Here's what you shouldn't expect to be covered:
- Routine check-ups, annual physicals, or preventive care
- Pre-existing conditions that aren't stable (usually need to be stable for 90-180 days depending on age)
- Routine medications for ongoing chronic conditions
- Elective procedures or cosmetic treatments
- Pregnancy-related care (especially routine prenatal care within 9 weeks of due date)
- Vision care (glasses, contacts, routine eye exams)
- Cancer treatment that's already underway before arriving in Canada
The key phrase to remember is "sudden and unexpected." If it's planned, routine, or related to a condition that was flaring up before they got here, chances are it's not covered.
Choosing an Insurance Provider: Canadian vs. Foreign Companies
With the 2025 changes, you've now got a choice to make: go with a tried-and-true Canadian insurer, or explore options from OSFI-approved foreign providers? Both have their merits, to be honest.
Reputable Canadian Providers
These are the companies that have been doing Super Visa insurance for years, and they know the system inside and out. (Want to see real customer experiences? Check out our Super Visa insurance reviews from actual families.)
Manulife
One of Canada's most trusted names. They offer flexible plans with optional coverage for stable pre-existing conditions and 24/7 emergency assistance. Been around for 135+ years.
Allianz Global Assistance
Major international brand with strong Canadian presence. Offers comprehensive coverage with multiple plan tiers and excellent customer service. Over 30 years serving Canadians.
GMS (Group Medical Services)
Known for competitive rates and excellent pre-existing condition coverage. Great option for seniors on longer-term stays.
TuGo
Canadian-owned since 1964. Specializes in travel insurance with support in 27 languages and competitive pricing for Super Visa coverage.
Why Consider a Canadian Provider?
- Local knowledge: They understand the Canadian healthcare system intimately and have established relationships with hospitals and clinics
- Direct billing: Many Canadian insurers can bill hospitals directly, saving you from fronting thousands in cash
- Easier claims process: When you're dealing with a medical emergency, the last thing you want is complicated international claims procedures
- 24/7 support in your time zone: Emergency assistance that operates when Canadians need it
Foreign OSFI-Approved Providers
Since January 2025, foreign insurers that meet OSFI requirements can now provide Super Visa coverage. This can potentially offer cost savings, especially if your parents are coming from countries with mature insurance markets. However, you need to do your homework:
- Check the OSFI list of federally regulated financial institutions to confirm your insurer is approved
- Ensure the policy explicitly states it was issued "in the course of its insurance business in Canada"
- Verify they offer 24/7 emergency assistance and English/French support
- Understand their claims process and whether they offer direct billing with Canadian hospitals
💡 Pro tip: Use our insurance comparison tool to evaluate Canadian and OSFI-approved providers side-by-side, including coverage details, pricing, and customer ratings.
The Application Process: Documents You'll Need
When your parents or grandparents submit their Super Visa application, they'll need to include proof of their insurance coverage. Here's what immigration officers want to see:
- Insurance policy certificate or letter — Must clearly show the policyholder's name, coverage amount ($100,000 minimum), and dates of coverage
- Proof of payment — Receipt showing the premium has been paid in full, or evidence of an installment plan with deposit paid
- Insurer information — For Canadian insurers, their business registration. For foreign insurers, confirmation they're OSFI-approved
- Policy terms — Coverage details showing it includes healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation
And here's a pro tip: when your parents actually arrive at the Canadian border, they should have a printed copy of this insurance documentation ready to show the border services officer. Officers can and do ask to see proof of coverage at entry, and you don't want any hiccups after coming this far.
Common Questions About Super Visa Insurance Requirements
Can I buy insurance after my parents arrive in Canada?
Nope, that won't fly. You absolutely need to have the insurance purchased and paid for before submitting the Super Visa application. Immigration requires proof of coverage as part of the application package. Without it, the application gets denied, plain and simple.
What happens if the insurance expires while my parents are still in Canada?
Good question. If your parents plan to stay longer than their initial coverage period, they need to renew or maintain their insurance during their stay. The policy must be valid for each entry to Canada. Most insurers offer renewal options, though you'll want to arrange this before the current policy lapses.
Is provincial health coverage (like OHIP) enough?
Absolutely not. Super Visa visitors are not eligible for provincial health plans like OHIP, AHCIP, or RAMQ. They're temporary residents, not permanent residents or citizens, so they fall outside the public healthcare system. That's exactly why private Super Visa insurance is mandatory.
Can I get a refund if the Super Visa is denied?
Usually, yes — but it depends on your insurer's policies. Most providers offer a full refund if you request it before the policy becomes active and provide proof that the Super Visa was denied. Some charge a small admin fee ($25-$250), so read the fine print when purchasing.
What if my parent has diabetes or high blood pressure?
Pre-existing conditions don't automatically disqualify them, but here's the deal: the condition typically needs to be "stable" for a certain period (usually 90 days for those under 65, and 180 days for those 65+). "Stable" generally means no changes in medication, no new symptoms, and no doctor visits related to that condition. The insurance will cost more, but coverage is definitely possible.
Does the insurance cover travel outside Canada during their visit?
Many policies do cover emergency medical care if your parents travel outside Canada during their stay (say, to the US for a quick trip), as long as they spend the majority of the coverage period in Canada. However, they're typically NOT covered for healthcare costs in their country of origin or residence. Always check your specific policy terms.
How do I verify a foreign insurer is OSFI-approved?
Head to the OSFI website where they maintain a public list of federally regulated financial institutions. You can also email OSFI directly at information@osfi-bsif.gc.ca with the insurer's details and ask for confirmation. They aim to respond within 15 days. Don't skip this step — using an unapproved provider means your application will be rejected.
Can I buy just the minimum $100,000 coverage to save money?
You can, sure, but many families choose higher coverage for good reason. A single hospital stay in Canada can easily cost $10,000-$30,000 or more, depending on the treatment. If your parent needs surgery, intensive care, or an extended hospital stay, that $100,000 can disappear fast. Many advisors recommend at least $150,000-$300,000 in coverage, especially for older visitors or those with pre-existing conditions. It's all about balancing cost with peace of mind.
Can I pay for Super Visa insurance monthly instead of upfront?
Yes, you can! While full payment upfront is common, several providers now offer monthly payment plans. You'll typically need to pay a deposit first, then spread the rest over installments. Some insurers like Manulife and GMS offer this flexibility. Keep in mind that some may charge a small administration fee for installment plans. Want to explore your options? Our guide on monthly payment plans for Super Visa insurance breaks down all the details.
Ready to Get Started?
Explore our tools and resources to find the perfect Super Visa insurance for your family
Bottom Line: What You Need to Remember
Look, navigating Super Visa insurance requirements doesn't have to be rocket science. Yes, there are rules to follow, but they exist for good reason — to protect your family from potentially devastating medical costs while they're visiting Canada.
Here's the executive summary of what matters most:
- Minimum $100,000 coverage for at least one year from entry date
- Must be purchased before application and paid upfront (or installments with deposit)
- Choose Canadian or OSFI-approved foreign insurers (new option as of January 2025)
- Coverage must include healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation
- Expect to pay $1,500-$8,000+ annually depending on age, health, and coverage amount
- Bring proof of insurance when entering Canada — border officers may ask to see it
The 2025 changes have genuinely made things more flexible and potentially more affordable for Canadian families looking to bring their parents or grandparents for extended visits. Take advantage of that flexibility, but don't cut corners on coverage. Your family's health and financial security during their stay in Canada is worth investing in proper insurance.
Got more questions? That's totally normal — this stuff can be complex, and every family's situation is unique. The key is to start researching early, compare multiple quotes from reputable providers, and read the policy terms carefully before purchasing. And hey, if you're feeling overwhelmed, there's no shame in talking to a licensed insurance advisor who specializes in Super Visa coverage. They can walk you through options based on your specific circumstances.
Need personalized help? Feel free to reach out to us with your questions — we're here to help Canadian families navigate the Super Visa insurance process.
At the end of the day, the goal is to get your loved ones here safely and legally, with the peace of mind that comes from knowing they're properly protected. With the right insurance in place, you can focus on what really matters: quality time with family.