In 2017, Canada set a new record for international visitors. There were 20.8 million trips lasting one or more nights.
But not everyone wants to take a quick trip to Canada to see the sights. There are others who are related to Canadian citizens who are looking to extend their stay for up to two years.
You can do this legally by getting a Super visa but there are some requirements. Health insurance for Super Visa is a must. If this is you, keep reading.
We're sharing with you how to get Super Visa insurance.
Why You Need Health Insurance for Super Visa
In 2011, the Canadian government introduced Super Visas. A Canada Super Visa was developed to manage the backlog of applications for those visitors wishing for longer stays in Canada.
The Super Visa is valid for up to 10 years. It's only for qualified parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents.
Other visas allow visitors to stay in Canada for six months. The Super Visa allows these relatives the opportunity to stay for as long as two years. And you also have the option to apply for an extension.
However, in order to apply for a Super Visa, you must obtain private Canadian health insurance first.
Qualifications for Super Visa Applications
In order to get Super Visa insurance, you must have at least $100,000 in health insurance coverage that's been issued by a Canadian insurance company. That way, if someone is sick or injured, the visitor can pay for their own health care.
There are some protections that come with the Super Visa insurance Canada. Coverage is for up to 365 days in Canada. There is no expiration date exclusion.
You can also return back to your home country during your trip without worrying your Super Visa insurance will be canceled. You're also given four deductible options with premium discounts that range from 5% to 30% on $100 to $3,000 per claim deductible.
And there are rate offerings for visitors up to age 85.
The Super Visa Application
You must prove a few things before you can successfully apply for a Super Visa. You must be allowed to enter Canada legally.
You must also provide proof that you are the parent or grandparent of a citizen or permanent resident of Canada. Siblings or other relatives of family members living in Canada are not eligible for a Super Visa.
Your child or grandchild must sign a letter stating they have invited you to visit for an extended time and that you'll be supported financially during your stay.
The Family Member Hosting the Visitor Must Provide Proof of Income
A single child or grandchild living in Canada must earn a minimum of $24,949 in order for their parent or grandparent to be eligible to apply for a Super Visa. Those living in a household of seven or more must earn a minimum of $66,027.
An extra $6,723 for each additional family member residing at one address above seven must be earned. These numbers are based on information provided for the year 2018.
You Must Pass a Medical Examination
You must provide proof of that you are covered under a Canadian medical insurance plan. And finally, you must pass an immigration medical exam.
In order to legally pass the exam, you must find a Panel Physician who has been approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada. Click here to find one in your country, territory or region.
Terms of Super Visa Canada Coverage for Health Insurance
In order to meet the Super Visa application requirements, the private health insurance you choose must cover healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation. This means, if you pass away, your health insurance will cover the cost to return your body to your home country.
There can be no gaps or breaks in your coverage during your stay in Canada.
There are many Super Visa Canada insurance providers. And there are many policies to choose from.
Whether you go directly to a health insurance carrier or choose to work with a broker, the price is always the same. However, while it's illegal for a broker to compete on price or rebate their commission, insurance companies can compete on price.
How to Get a Free Estimate of Health Insurance Coverage
You'll want to compare a few things when choosing which healthcare coverage to select. Comparing prices, benefits, secondary benefits, and refund policies will help you find the best insurance for your needs and budget.
There are health insurance companies where you can request an instant online quote by completing some information. You can get a quote without knowing the exact dates of your visit. You can just use an estimate and then change to the exact dates after you're approved for a Super Visa.
Once make a purchase, you'll receive a confirmation of your coverage and your policy documents in an e-mail.
Simply print out a copy and submit it with your application. You'll also need to bring it with you to present to a port of entry officer.
Super Visa Insurance Isn't Cheap
You won't find inexpensive Super Visa health insurance offered. But don't let price be your only concern.
Do a thorough search. Find out what's excluded in your policy before making a decision. Look at different deductible options and what the refund policies are.
Emergency expense benefits are also important to check out. It's safe to expect the unexpected.
If you have pre-existing medical conditions, see what type of coverage is offered. Most online quotes provide a summary that gives you a break down of the basics of your policy to let you know exactly what you're getting.
You May be Entitled to a Refund if the Stay is Less than Expected
Sometimes people using the Super Visa don't stay as long as they had originally intended. Things happen.
You must pay for your insurance in full at the time of purchase. However, if your Super Visa isn't issued or you choose not to come to Canada, you can cancel the policy and receive a refund.
You can also receive a partial refund if you don't stay as long as planned. Check with your policy to see what you need to do.
Enjoy Your Stay
Once you have your health insurance for Super Visa and come to Canada, it's time to see the sights. Canada is a large, beautiful country with plenty of things to see and do.
Click here to learn how to safely plan your tour of Canada.
