The Canada Super Visa is an excellent option for Pakistani parents and grandparents who want to visit their children or grandchildren residing in Canada for an extended period. This visa allows eligible applicants to stay in Canada for up to five years per entry, with multiple entries permitted for up to ten years. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to apply for a Canada Super Visa from Pakistan.
Eligibility Requirements
To qualify for a Super Visa, applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Be a parent or grandparent of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.
- Provide a letter of invitation from their child or grandchild in Canada.
- Show proof of financial support from the host in Canada (meeting the Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) requirement).
- Have medical insurance coverage of at least CAD 100,000 from a Canadian insurance provider.
- Undergo an immigration medical examination.
- Satisfy the visa officer that they will return to Pakistan after their visit.
Step-by-Step Application Process
Step 1: Obtain an Invitation Letter
Your child or grandchild in Canada must write an invitation letter that includes:
- Their complete name, date of birth, and address in Canada.
- Proof of their Canadian citizenship or permanent residence.
- Details about their family size to determine LICO eligibility.
- A written statement promising financial support.
- Their employment details, income proof, and bank statements.
Step 2: Purchase Medical Insurance
Applicants must buy medical insurance from a Canadian insurance provider that:
- Covers at least CAD 100,000 in medical expenses.
- Is valid for at least one year from the date of entry.
- Covers hospitalization, healthcare, and repatriation.
Step 3: Undergo a Medical Examination
- A medical exam is mandatory for Super Visa applicants.
- The examination must be conducted by an IRCC-approved panel physician in Pakistan.
- Results are directly submitted to IRCC by the doctor.
Step 4: Gather Required Documents
Prepare the following documents for your application:
- Valid Pakistani passport.
- Invitation letter from your child or grandchild.
- Proof of relationship (birth certificate of child/grandchild).
- Proof of medical insurance.
- Proof of financial support (host’s tax documents, bank statements, employment letter).
- Completed IMM 5257 (Visitor Visa Application Form) and IMM 5645 (Family Information Form).
- Passport-size photographs meeting IRCC specifications.
Step 5: Submit the Application Online or Through VFS Global
Applicants can apply:
- Online via the IRCC website by creating an account and uploading documents.
- Through VFS Global (Canada Visa Application Centers in Pakistan) where biometrics are also collected.
Step 6: Pay Visa Fees and Biometrics
- The processing fee for a Super Visa is approximately CAD 100.
- Biometrics fee is CAD 85 (if applicable).
- Payments can be made online or at designated visa application centers.
Step 7: Attend an Interview (If Required)
In some cases, applicants may be called for an interview at the Canadian embassy or consulate in Pakistan.
Step 8: Wait for Processing and Decision
- Processing times vary, typically ranging from 8 to 12 weeks.
- Once approved, applicants will receive a visa sticker in their passport allowing multiple entries.
Conclusion
Applying for a Canada Super Visa from Pakistan requires careful preparation and meeting all eligibility criteria. By following the steps outlined above, parents and grandparents can increase their chances of approval and enjoy long-term visits with their families in Canada.
For the latest updates and processing times, always check the IRCC website or consult with authorized immigration professionals.
