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Canada changes health insurance requirements for Super Visa applicants

Canada has long been a beacon for immigrants, offering a plethora of opportunities and a high standard of living. Recognizing the importance of family reunification, the Canadian government introduced the Super Visa program, allowing parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit their loved ones for extended periods. In a significant policy shift effective January 28, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has expanded the health insurance options for Super Visa applicants, permitting the use of non-Canadian insurance providers. Here we will delve into the nuances of this change, its implications, and the broader context of the Super Visa program.

The Super Visa is a special long-term visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit Canada for extended periods. Unlike a regular visitor visa, which typically allows stays of up to six months, the Super Visa enables holders to stay in Canada for up to five years per entry, with the option to extend their stay by an additional two years. This makes it an attractive alternative to the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP), which offers permanent residency but has a long and uncertain application process.

Introduced in 2011, the Super Visa was designed to help families stay connected while ensuring visitors have adequate financial support and medical insurance during their stay. To qualify, applicants must meet specific eligibility criteria, including undergoing a medical examination, providing proof of private health insurance, and showing that their child or grandchild in Canada meets minimum income requirements to support them financially.

A key benefit of the Super Visa is its multiple-entry feature, allowing holders to travel back and forth between Canada and their home country without having to reapply. This visa offers flexibility and security for families looking to reunite for extended periods while maintaining strong ties with Canada.

What has changed now?

A cornerstone of the Super Visa application process has been the mandatory health insurance coverage. Historically, applicants were required to secure medical insurance from Canadian providers, ensuring coverage for healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation, with a minimum coverage amount of CAD $100,000. The policy needed to be valid for at least one year from the date of entry into Canada. This stringent requirement aimed to safeguard both the Canadian healthcare system from potential financial strains and the visitors from unforeseen medical expenses.

The recent amendment by IRCC marks a paradigm shift in the Super Visa's health insurance stipulations. As of January 28, 2025, applicants are now permitted to obtain health insurance from non-Canadian insurers, provided these insurers meet specific criteria set forth by Canadian authorities. This change is poised to offer applicants a broader spectrum of insurance options, potentially leading to more competitive pricing and tailored coverage plans.

Criteria for non-Canadian insurance providers

To ensure that the health insurance policies from foreign providers align with Canadian standards, the following criteria have been established:

● Authorization by OSFI: The insurance provider must be authorized by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) under the Insurance Companies Act to offer accident and sickness insurance in Canada. This ensures that the insurer operates under regulatory oversight, maintaining the integrity and reliability of the coverage.

Inclusion in OSFI's List: The provider should appear on OSFI's list of federally regulated financial institutions. This inclusion serves as a testament to the insurer's adherence to Canadian financial and operational standards.

● Issuance Within Canadian Jurisdiction: The insurance policy must be issued or made during the course of the provider's insurance business in Canada. This stipulation ensures that the policy is subject to Canadian laws and regulations, offering an added layer of protection to the policyholder.

Additionally, all insurance plans, irrespective of the provider's origin, must:

● Provide a minimum coverage of CAD $100,000.

● Be valid for a minimum of one year from the date of entry into Canada.

● Cover healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation.

Implications of the Policy Change

The decision to broaden the pool of eligible insurance providers carries several significant implications:

● Enhanced Accessibility and Affordability: By allowing non-Canadian insurers to offer qualifying policies, applicants can now shop in a global marketplace. This expansion is anticipated to foster competitive pricing, making health insurance more affordable and accessible to a diverse range of applicants.

● Streamlined Application Process: The flexibility in choosing insurance providers can simplify the application process for many families, especially those residing in countries with established and reputable insurance markets. This change reduces the logistical challenges previously associated with procuring insurance exclusively from Canadian companies.

● Economic and Social Benefits: Facilitating easier and potentially more cost-effective family reunifications can have positive ripple effects on Canadian society. The presence of parents and grandparents can provide essential support systems, enabling better integration and mental well-being for immigrant families. Moreover, the influx of visitors can contribute economically through tourism and other expenditures.

To navigate this update, Super Visa applicants should undertake the following steps:

● Comprehensive Coverage Confirmation: Applicants must meticulously review the policy to ensure it meets all stipulated requirements, including coverage for healthcare, hospitalization, repatriation, a minimum coverage amount of CAD $100,000, and a validity period of at least one year from the date of entry.

● Verification of Insurer's Credentials: Before purchasing a policy, applicants must ensure that the non-Canadian insurer is authorized by OSFI and appears on its list of federally regulated financial institutions. This can be done by consulting OSFI's official website or contacting them directly.

● Policy Documentation: It's imperative that the insurance policy includes a statement confirming it was issued in the course of the provider's insurance business in Canada. This documentation serves as proof of compliance with Canadian regulations and should be retained for presentation upon entry into Canada.

The relaxation of health insurance requirements for Super Visa applicants signifies a progressive step towards enhancing family reunification in Canada. By embracing non-Canadian insurance providers, the policy not only broadens the horizons for applicants but also reinforces Canada's dedication to inclusivity and support for its immigrant communities. As this change takes effect, it is incumbent upon applicants to stay informed, ensuring they meet all criteria to fully benefit from the opportunities the Super Visa affords.

If you are looking to Study, Work, Visit or Migrate to Canada, talk to I Can Help Immigration Services, at +1 778 239 7861 or +1 647 453 7660 with RCIC # R413239, Canada’s No.1 Immigration & Visa Company to get the best help you need.