Overview
Private medical insurance is a core Super Visa requirement, not an optional extra. IRCC will not treat a quote as proof. Buy coverage that matches the published rules, keep payment evidence, and plan for border checks on later entries too.
Common situations
Buying insurance before the visa decision
Policies are often purchased to satisfy the application. Confirm cancellation and extension terms with the insurer if processing takes longer than expected.
Couples applying together
Each applicant generally needs qualifying coverage. Do not assume one policy automatically covers both unless the documents clearly show it.
Visa-exempt Super Visa applicants
Insurance rules still apply. The Super Visa stay benefit depends on meeting Super Visa conditions, including insurance.
Renewing coverage for a later entry
IRCC requires the insurance to be valid for each entry and available for border review. Do not arrive on a lapsed policy.
IRCC insurance rules (checklist)
Your medical insurance should:
- be valid for a minimum of 1 year from the date of entry
- be paid in full or in instalments with a deposit (quotes aren’t accepted)
- cover health care, hospitalization, and repatriation
- provide a minimum of $100,000 coverage
- be valid for each entry to Canada and available for review by a border services officer on request
Provider rule: Canadian insurance company, or a company outside Canada approved by the minister. IRCC has noted that more information on approved foreign companies would be made available; confirm the live page when you buy.
Tamara can review coverage length, amount, and payment proof against Super Visa document rules.
Documents to include with the application
- policy certificate or wording showing coverage amounts and dates
- proof of payment / deposit
- insurer contact details
- names matching passport biodata
Also complete the required immigration medical exam with an approved panel physician—insurance does not replace the medical exam.
Practical tips
- Match insured names exactly to passport names.
- Keep digital and paper copies for travel.
- Calendar renewal dates before re-entry.
- Read exclusions (pre-existing conditions) carefully with the insurer; IRCC sets minimums, but policy terms still matter for real claims.
When to get help
Get help if an insurer’s wording is ambiguous on repatriation or coverage amount, if you are relying on a foreign insurer’s approval status, or if a prior Super Visa issue involved insurance documents.
Common mistakes
- Uploading quotes or unpaid applications
- Coverage under $100,000
- Policy shorter than one year from entry
- Assuming provincial health care replaces Super Visa private insurance
- Letting coverage lapse between multiple entries
Related guides
- Super Visa Requirements
- Super Visa Income Requirements
- Super Visa Invitation Letter
- Visitor Visa for Parents
This guide summarizes official IRCC sources listed above. Requirements change. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.
Before you apply
- Confirmed insurer is Canadian or minister-approved
- Verified coverage includes health care, hospitalization, repatriation
- Confirmed at least $100,000 coverage
- Obtained proof of payment (not a quote)
- Checked policy dates against planned entry
- Kept documents ready for port-of-entry review
Frequently asked questions
- Can I submit an insurance quote with my Super Visa?
- No. IRCC says quotes aren’t accepted. Provide proof the medical insurance is paid in full or in instalments with a deposit.
- Does insurance have to be from a Canadian company?
- It must be from a Canadian insurance company or from a company outside Canada that has been approved by the minister. Check IRCC for the current approved list status.
- How long must the policy be valid?
- A minimum of 1 year from the date of entry, and it must be valid for each entry to Canada.
- What must the policy cover?
- IRCC lists health care, hospitalization, and repatriation, with minimum coverage of $100,000.
- Will CBSA ask to see insurance at the border?
- IRCC says the insurance must be available for review by a border services officer upon request.
- Is this legal advice?
- No. This guide summarizes official IRCC guidance. Outcomes depend on your full facts and officer assessment.
See also
References
- Get your documents ready (proof of health insurance)
- Who can apply (Super Visa eligibility)
- Super visa overview
Note: This guide is general information, not legal advice. Outcomes depend on your facts and IRCC’s assessment. Confirm current rules on Canada.ca before you apply.