Super Visa Insurance: The Complete Guide

Medical insurance is a hard requirement for the super visa, and it is one of the few things a refusal officer can verify instantly. This guide covers the exact requirements, what to look for in a policy, monthly versus annual payment, what happens if coverage lapses, and refunds if the visa is refused.

The insurance requirements

To qualify, the policy must meet every one of these conditions:

• At least CAD $100,000 in medical coverage.
• From a Canadian insurer, or an insurer IRCC has approved.
• Valid for at least one year from the date of entry.
• Covers health care, hospitalization, and repatriation.
• Names and covers the visiting parent or grandparent.

What to look for in a policy

Not all policies that hit $100K are equal. Beyond the minimums, compare the details that matter when someone actually needs care.

• Pre-existing condition coverage — many older travellers need this, and rules vary by insurer.
• Deductible — a higher deductible lowers the premium but costs more at claim time.
• Stable period — how long a condition must be stable to be covered.
• Direct billing — whether the insurer pays hospitals directly so your family isn't out of pocket.
• Refund policy — whether you get money back if the visa is refused or the trip is cut short.

For a breakdown of what drives the price, see our insurance cost guide.

Monthly vs annual payment

IRCC accepts both annual and monthly payment plans, as long as the policy itself is valid for at least one year. The choice is about cash flow and risk, not eligibility.

Annual plans are usually cheaper overall and prove a full year of coverage in one document, which officers like. Monthly plans spread the cost and can be easier on the budget, and are handy when you may cancel early. Compare the trade-offs in our monthly insurance guide.

What happens if coverage lapses in Canada

If insurance lapses while your parent is in Canada, they are no longer meeting a condition of their stay. There is no automatic deportation, but they are uninsured for any medical emergency and out of compliance, which can hurt future applications.

Fix it fast: reinstate or renew coverage immediately so there is no gap. Set a calendar reminder before the policy ends, and renew early. See our insurance renewal guide for how to keep coverage continuous.

Refunds if the visa is refused

Most Canadian super visa insurers will refund your premium if the visa is refused, and many also refund the unused portion if your parent leaves Canada early. Always confirm the refund terms in writing before you buy.

Where to go next

See the full requirements for how insurance fits with income and the medical exam, and compare insurance cost and monthly options to find the right policy.