Which oneactually fits?
Compare the two temporary-resident options by family relationship, intended stay, insurance, medical exam, income and application requirements. The more demanding application is not automatically the better one.
- 6 months
- Visitor visa: typical stay
- 5 years
- Super Visa: stay per entry
- Parents only
- Super Visa is relationship-restricted
- No guarantee
- A border officer decides admission
Overview
What is the main difference?
A Visitor Visa is available to many kinds of temporary visitors and is usually suited to shorter trips. A Super Visa is specifically for eligible parents and grandparents, and can permit stays of up to five years at a time — but it carries mandatory insurance, a medical exam and a host income threshold.
Does either option guarantee entry?
No. A visa permits travel to a Canadian port of entry. A border services officer makes the admission decision and determines the authorized period of stay.
The detail
What you need to know
When a visitor visa may fit
Tourism, business visits, family events, or visits expected to last six months or less. Applicants still need to demonstrate admissibility, finances, purpose and temporary intent.
When a Super Visa may fit
An eligible parent or grandparent planning extended family time, where the host meets the income requirement and the applicant can obtain qualifying insurance and complete the medical exam.
Compare
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Visitor Visa | Super Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Applicants | General visitors | Eligible parents and grandparents |
| Typical stay | Usually up to six months | Up to five years at a time |
| Host income | No fixed threshold | Minimum necessary income applies |
| Medical insurance | Not always mandatory | Qualifying policy required |
| Medical exam | Depends on circumstances | Required |
| Dependants | Apply individually | Cannot be included |
Next step
Request a comparison review
We compare both options against your family circumstances and the visit you actually want — then recommend the one most likely to be approved.
This page provides general information and is not legal advice. Program rules change and individual circumstances matter. Confirm current IRCC requirements before applying.
Talk to a regulated consultant
We confirm eligibility, flag the risks, and build the document plan before anything is filed.
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