Quick answer
For a Super Visa, IRCC requires private medical insurance that: comes from a Canadian insurer or an OSFI-authorized foreign insurer; names that insurer; gives at least $100,000 of emergency coverage; covers health care, hospitalization and repatriation; is valid for at least one year from the date of entry; and is paid in full or in instalments with a deposit.
The requirements, one by one
1. An eligible insurer
The policy must be issued by a Canadian insurance company, or — since January 28, 2025 — by a foreign insurer authorized by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) to provide accident and sickness insurance, issuing the policy through its Canadian business. A regular health policy from your parents' home country won't qualify.
2. The insurer is named
Brokers and claims administrators aren't insurers. The proof you submit should show the company carrying the risk — the underwriter. Every policy we place shows this clearly.
3. At least $100,000 of coverage
That's per person, for emergency health care, hospitalization and repatriation. Many families choose more for older parents.
4. Valid for at least one year from entry
The clock runs from the day your parent enters Canada, not the day you apply. Pick a start date that matches the planned arrival, and adjust it with the insurer if travel plans change.
5. Paid in full or in instalments with a deposit
Monthly plans are accepted when the insurer offers them. See monthly payment plans.
6. Valid for each entry
Your parent should carry proof of insurance when travelling, and keep valid coverage for the whole stay — renewing before it runs out if they stay past the first year.
Common mistakes we see
- A start date months before the actual arrival, wasting paid coverage.
- A policy that excludes pre-existing conditions for a parent on daily medication.
- Assuming a well-known insurer back home qualifies.
- Letting coverage lapse after year one and facing a new waiting period.
IRCC updates its instructions from time to time. We check every policy against the current rules, and you can confirm them on IRCC's Super Visa page.
Common questions
Does IRCC accept a policy bought from a broker?
Yes — as long as the policy is issued by an eligible insurer and the proof names that insurer. The broker helps you buy; the insurer issues the policy.
Can the policy start after my parent arrives?
It should start on the day of entry. If your parent is already in Canada, a waiting period may apply — see buying after arrival.
Is $100,000 enough?
It meets the rule. For parents over 70 or with health conditions, $150,000 to $200,000 gives more room for a serious hospital stay, often for a modest extra cost.
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Quotes are estimates based on each insurer's current rates. The insurer's policy wording and final rate always apply.