- Super Visa insurance is a mandatory requirement by IRCC and must provide at least $100,000 in emergency medical coverage for one year, often fully paid in advance from a Canadian insurance company
- The cost of Super Visa insurance depends on several factors, including the applicant’s age, stability of pre-existing conditions, length of stay, deductible amount, and optional add-ons such as dental or vision coverage
- In 2025, some of the most affordable and popular insurance providers include 21st Century, TuGo, Manulife, Destination Canada, GMS, and Allianz, each offering unique advantages for seniors and long-term visitors
- Applicants can reduce their insurance premiums by choosing higher deductibles, selecting only the mandatory $100,000 coverage, avoiding optional add-ons, paying upfront annually, and comparing multiple quotes early
- What is Super Visa insurance in Canada?
- Which are the best Super Visa insurance companies in Canada?
- How much does Super Visa insurance cost in Canada?
- How do pre-existing conditions affect Super Visa insurance?
- Can I buy Super Visa insurance after arriving in Canada?
- What happens if my Super Visa is denied after I buy insurance?
- How to file a Super Visa insurance claim in Canada?
- How to get the most affordable Super Visa insurance quotes in Canada?
- Frequently asked questions
Planning to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada on a Super Visa? In 2023, Canada’s Super Visa program saw an impressive 81% approval rate, making it a popular choice for family reunification. One of the most important requirements is purchasing the best Super Visa insurance in Canada, a specialized form of visitor insurance designed to protect them during their extended stay.
Choosing the right plan not only ensures your application is approved but also provides financial protection against unexpected health expenses. In this guide, we’ll break down the top Super Visa insurance providers in Canada and help you find a policy that offers the best combination of coverage, cost, and peace of mind.
What is Super Visa insurance in Canada?
Super Visa insurance is a mandatory travel medical insurance policy required by the Canadian government for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents who are applying for a Super Visa. Super Visa allows eligible family members to stay in Canada for up to five years at a time without the need to renew their status.
The goal of Super Visa insurance is to cover the high cost of emergency healthcare services in Canada that are not publicly funded for non-residents. To meet IRCC’s requirements and qualify for a Super Visa, the emergency medical insurance plan must meet the following criteria:
Key features of Super Visa insurance in Canada include:
- Minimum $100,000 in coverage for healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation
- Valid for at least one year from the date of entry into Canada
- Covers emergency medical care, including physician visits, surgeries, ambulance services, and prescription drugs
- Provides coverage for repatriation (returning the insured to their home country in case of serious illness or death)
- Option to cover pre-existing conditions, provided they are stable for a certain period (typically 90–180 days)
- The Super Visa insurance plan must be purchased and paid in full (some providers offer monthly payment plans but require proof of full commitment)
- A policy confirmation letter must be submitted as part of the Super Visa application
Which are the best Super Visa insurance companies in Canada?
Canada offers several reputable Super Visa insurance providers, such as Manulife, GMS, TuGo, Secure Travel, and more. Based on cost, coverage flexibility, pre-existing condition support, and customer experience, here are the top Super Visa insurance companies in Canada for 2025.
- GMS (Group Medical Services): Best for competitive pricing
- TuGo: Best for customizable riders
- Manulife: Best for value-added services
- 21st Century: Best for healthy travellers
- Secure Travel (RIMI): Best for senior travellers
- Destination Canada: Best for comprehensive coverage
- Allianz: Best for frequent travellers
GMS (Group Medical Services) – Best Super Visa insurance for competitive pricing
GMS offers one of the most comprehensive and competitively priced Super Visa insurance plans in Canada, especially when paired with a low deductible. The company also stands out for its flexible renewal policy.
This means you can renew your coverage with any Canadian insurer without triggering a waiting period, unlike other providers that require you to continue your policy with the same insurer. These advantages, along with its reputable brand value, make GMS a strong choice for both first-time and returning Super Visa applicants.
Key features of GMS
- GMS becomes highly affordable when applicants choose a low deductible option
- The plan offers unlimited prescription drug coverage, unlike the $500 capped limit that most providers enforce
- It covers pre-existing conditions that have been stable for 180 days
- Applicants can pay premiums monthly, helping manage upfront costs
- GMS allows policy renewals from any Canadian insurer without imposing a new waiting period
- The plan includes essential coverage such as emergency hospitalization, diagnostics, and repatriation
Why PolicyAdvisor recommends GMS
- It is one of the few Super Visa plans with no upper limit on prescription drug coverage
- The plan becomes cost-effective with low deductible choices, offering excellent value
- GMS allows flexible renewals, which is ideal for long-term visitors or those switching providers
- It is suitable for families needing broad coverage without restrictive drug limits
- Monthly payments make the plan more accessible for budget-conscious sponsors
TuGo – Best Super Visa insurance for customizable riders
TuGo stands out as one of the most flexible Super Visa insurance providers in Canada, offering a wide range of customizable options. Applicants can choose to add coverage for unstable pre-existing conditions and even opt for a rider that covers adventure and sports-related activities, making this policy perfect for active or thrill-seeking visitors.
Backed by one of Canada’s largest and most trusted insurance companies, TuGo combines strong financial security with the freedom to tailor your coverage based on your lifestyle and travel needs.
Key features of TuGo
- TuGo offers up to $500,000 in emergency medical coverage for Super Visa applicants
- Applicants can add riders for unstable pre-existing condition coverage
- The plan includes optional trip interruption and sports/adventure activity coverage
- The claims process is fast, simple, and available online
- TuGo provides 24/7 multilingual emergency assistance for global support
- The plan covers visitors up to 89 years of age, making it suitable for elderly parents
Why PolicyAdvisor recommends TuGo
- It is one of the few providers offering a rider for unstable pre-existing conditions
- Families can customize their coverage with optional add-ons based on travel needs
- It’s a great choice for active visitors who may need adventure or sports coverage
- The plan is backed by a leading Canadian insurance company, offering financial stability
- It’s ideal for visitors who want flexibility without compromising on emergency care
Manulife – Best Super Visa insurance for value-added services
Manulife is Canada’s largest insurance company and offers one of the most trusted Super Visa insurance plans in the country. Their plans are ideal for families who prioritize prescription drug coverage, accidental dental, and companion benefits as part of their emergency medical insurance.
Manulife gives applicants the flexibility to choose between two plan options, making it easier to find coverage that fits both their medical history and budget. Backed by decades of experience and a strong reputation, Manulife provides reliable protection for visiting parents and grandparents under the Super
Key features of Manulife
- Manulife is the largest and most established insurance company in Canada
- The plan includes comprehensive coverage for prescription drugs, accidental dental, and companion benefits
- Applicants can choose between a plan with pre-existing condition coverage or one without it
- The plan offers flexible options tailored to both healthy applicants and those with medical histories
- Manulife’s coverage supports peace of mind with strong financial backing and national recognition
- The plan is available to a wide age range of applicants and meets all Super Visa requirements
- The application process is simple, with responsive customer service and fast approvals
Why PolicyAdvisor recommends Manulife
- It is known as Canada’s largest and most reputable insurance provider
- The plan provides one of the most comprehensive prescription drug and dental coverages in the market
- It offers flexible plan choices to accommodate applicants with or without pre-existing conditions
- It’s a strong option for those seeking complete medical protection from a highly established brand
- The plan is ideal for risk-averse applicants who want reliability and proven claims support
21st Century – Best Super Visa insurance for healthy travellers
21st Century provides one of the most affordable Super Visa insurance options in Canada, especially for healthy travellers under 60 with no major medical conditions. Families looking to reduce upfront costs can opt for 21st Century plans with higher deductibles, which lowers premiums. A monthly payment option is also available in this policy for added financial flexibility.
Key features of 21st Century
- The plan offers some of the lowest Super Visa insurance rates in Canada for healthy travellers
- It is well-suited for healthy visitors under the age of 60
- Applicants can reduce premiums by choosing higher deductible options
- A monthly payment plan is available to ease upfront financial pressure
- It provides a simple yet essential coverage option for applicants who do not need extensive benefits
Why PolicyAdvisor recommends 21st Century
- It is an excellent choice for healthy applicants who need only basic coverage
- The plan helps families save money without compromising Super Visa eligibility
- It works well for shorter visits or when travel risks are minimal
- The monthly payment feature makes it easier to manage insurance costs
- It is a budget-friendly solution for sponsors prioritizing affordability over additional benefits
Secure Travel (RIMI) – Best Super Visa insurance for senior travellers
Secure Travel (RIMI) offers one of the most budget-friendly Super Visa insurance options for senior travellers, particularly those aged 60 and above. It provides two plan choices, with the flexibility to include or exclude coverage for stable pre-existing conditions. Secure Travel is also known for its high coverage limit, providing $1 million in coverage for Super Visa policies
The availability of a monthly payment plan makes RIMI even more accessible for families looking to manage expenses without compromising on eligibility.
Key features of Secure Travel (RIMI)
- RIMI offers two plan types, the Standard and the Enhanced plans, catering to different budget needs
- Applicants can choose to include or exclude coverage for stable pre-existing conditions
- The plan is among the most affordable Super Visa insurance options for seniors aged 60 and above
- A monthly payment option is available to spread out premium costs over time
- Coverage meets all the minimum requirements set by the Super Visa program
- It is designed for travellers seeking basic coverage without high premiums
Why PolicyAdvisor recommends Secure Travel (RIMI)
- It provides highly affordable premiums for senior applicants
- The plan accommodates both seniors with and without pre-existing conditions
- It is ideal for cost-conscious families who need Super Visa coverage for older parents or grandparents
- The monthly payment option improves affordability for long-stay visits
- It helps seniors meet Super Visa insurance requirements with minimal financial strain
Destination Canada – Best Super Visa insurance for comprehensive coverage
Destination Canada offers one of the most well-rounded and flexible Super Visa insurance plans in Canada. It provides extensive emergency medical coverage and allows families to enhance their policy with a variety of valuable riders, such as Accidental Death & Dismemberment (AD&D), accidental dental care, follow-up visits, and companion benefits.
This plan supports monthly premium payments and gives you the choice to include or exclude coverage for stable pre-existing conditions, depending on your medical history.
Key features of Destination Canada
- The plan provides emergency medical coverage specifically designed for Super Visa applicants
- It includes optional benefits such as AD&D, accidental dental, follow-up care, and companion benefits
- You can choose to include or exclude stable pre-existing condition coverage based on eligibility
- The plan supports monthly payment options for greater financial flexibility
- Destination Canada offers one of the best side-trip coverage options among Super Visa insurance plans
- Applicants up to 89 years of age are eligible for coverage
- The application process is quick, with instant quotes and fast policy issuance
Why PolicyAdvisor recommends Destination Canada
- It offers a wide range of additional riders that go beyond basic medical coverage
- Families can customize the plan to meet specific health and travel needs
- It is a great fit for elderly parents who may require follow-up treatment or companion support
- The plan works well for long-term visitors who intend to take short trips outside Canada
- Monthly payment options make it easier for families to manage premium costs over time
- It provides excellent value for families looking for both medical and non-medical benefits in one plan
Allianz – Best Super Visa insurance for frequent travellers
Allianz is a global leader in travel insurance, offering reliable Super Visa health insurance with a strong international infrastructure. Their global networks and multilingual services make them perfect for internationally mobile parents
Key features of Allianz
- This policy offers 24/7 multilingual emergency support
- It covers a variety of stable pre-existing conditions at an affordable cost
- It includes various in-built travel benefits like trip interruption or accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D)
- This company is known for its strong international claims management capabilities and networks
- It provides IRCC-compliant Super Visa coverage
Why PolicyAdvisor recommends Allianz:
- This policy is best for individuals who frequently travel to Canada for work or business purposes
- It is ideal for those needing multilingual assistance
- It can also be great for families wanting a globally recognized insurer
- This policy is suitable for visitors needing more than just medical protection
How much does Super Visa insurance cost in Canada?
The cost of Super Visa insurance in Canada depends on several factors, including the applicant’s age, medical history (especially pre-existing conditions), length of stay, and the amount of coverage selected.
Premiums increase with age and are significantly higher when coverage for pre-existing conditions is included. For example, a 75-year-old parent without pre-existing conditions would pay around $278/month for an affordable Super Visa insurance, but the cost jumps to $485/month if coverage for existing health conditions is needed.
Here’s a breakdown of monthly premiums from 21st Century Travel Insurance for $100,000 in emergency medical coverage:
Average Super Visa insurance monthly costs in Canada
Age | Monthly premium without pre-existing conditions | Monthly premium with stable pre-existing conditions |
55 years | $113.76/month | $191.63/month |
60 years | $127.14/month | $228.43/month |
65 years | $163.03/month | $271.62/month |
70 years | $224.17/month | $390.25/month |
75 years | $278.01/month | $485.15/month |
80 years | $427.35/month | $651.53/month |
*Illustrating monthly premiums for a Super Visa plan for an individual seeking $100,000 in emergency medical coverage for a 90-day trip
How do pre-existing conditions affect Super Visa insurance?
Pre-existing medical conditions directly impact Super Visa insurance eligibility, premiums, and the scope of emergency medical coverage.
Most Super Visa insurance companies in Canada will cover pre-existing conditions only if they are stable for a defined period, typically 90, 120, or 180 days, before the insurance starts. A condition is considered unstable if there have been recent symptoms, medication changes, diagnostic tests, or hospital visits. Even common pre-existing conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or heart disease may be excluded if they haven’t remained unchanged for the required period.
If your parent or grandparent has such conditions, it’s crucial to compare plans that offer enhanced coverage or optional pre-existing condition riders. Undisclosed or misrepresented medical history can result in claim denial, even if the condition appears unrelated to the emergency.
Which Super Visa insurance is best for parents with diabetes or hypertension?
The best Super Visa insurance for parents with diabetes or hypertension is one that includes comprehensive coverage for pre-existing medical conditions. Providers like Secure Travel, Destination Canada and TuGo offer plans that cover stable pre-existing conditions, including controlled diabetes and high blood pressure.
These insurers assess the stability period, typically 90 to 180 days before the policy starts, to determine eligibility. To avoid denial of coverage, always disclose your medical history honestly during the application process.
Can I buy Super Visa insurance after arriving in Canada?
You must buy Super Visa insurance before arriving in Canada if you want your application to be approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). The policy must be valid from the date of entry and provide at least one year of emergency medical coverage.
Although you can purchase travel insurance after arriving in Canada, it will not satisfy Super Visa requirements. IRCC requires proof of valid Canadian health insurance at the time of application, so make sure to compare plans and secure coverage before your parents or grandparents travel.
Can I buy Super Visa insurance from a foreign company in 2025?
Yes, as of 2025, you can buy Super Visa insurance from a foreign company outside Canada, but only if it meets specific conditions set by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Some of the eligibility criteria for foreign insurance providers offering Super Visa insurance include:
- The insurer must be authorized by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) to offer accident and sickness insurance in Canada
- The policy must be issued or underwritten by an OSFI-listed insurer in Canada
- The plan must meet all Super Visa requirements, including:
- A minimum coverage of $100,000 CAD
- Coverage for emergency medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation
- A validity of at least one year from the date of entry
- The policy must be fully paid (no monthly payment plans unless financed through a licensed Canadian provider)
What happens if my Super Visa is denied after I buy insurance?
If your Super Visa is denied after you buy insurance, most providers in Canada will allow you to request a full refund, as long as you provide proof of visa refusal. To get your money back, you must submit the official IRCC rejection letter along with your policy details.
However, refund policies may vary by insurer, so it’s important to review the terms before purchasing. Many of the best Super Visa insurance providers in Canada, such as Manulife or 21st Century, offer hassle-free cancellation and full refunds in case of visa denial, ensuring you don’t lose your investment.
How to file a Super Visa insurance claim in Canada?
The Super Visa insurance claims process ensures that insured visitors can receive timely medical care in Canada without financial stress. It’s important to follow the correct steps to avoid claim denial or delays.
Most of the best Super Visa insurance providers in Canada offer clear guidelines and 24/7 support to help you through the process.
- Contact the insurer’s emergency assistance line immediately before or right after seeking medical care
- Follow the insurer’s instructions on approved hospitals or clinics to avoid out-of-network charges
- Collect and submit required documents, such as claim forms, medical records, itemized bills, and receipts
- Submit the claim within the insurer’s specified timeline (often 30–90 days)
- Track the claim status online or through customer service for updates until it’s processed and settled
How to get the most affordable Super Visa insurance quotes in Canada?
Finding affordable Super Visa insurance quotes in Canada doesn’t have to be overwhelming, especially when you have expert guidance. At PolicyAdvisor, we work directly with Canada’s best visitor travel insurance companies that offer Super Visa-compliant plans. Whether you’re looking for basic coverage or policies that include pre-existing condition protection and add-ons, we compare all the best options to help you save both time and money.
Our licensed insurance advisors specialize in Super Visa coverage and can help you find the cheapest Super Visa insurance quotes based on your unique needs, medical history, and budget preferences.
We also offer lifetime after-sales support, whether you need help with renewals, claims, or updating your coverage. Schedule a call with us today to get customized plans based on your travel needs.
Frequently asked questions
What happens if my Super Visa is rejected after buying insurance?
If your Super Visa is denied, most Super Visa insurance providers in Canada offer a full refund, often minus a small administrative fee. To receive the refund, you must submit proof of visa rejection, usually the IRCC refusal letter, before the policy’s start date.
It’s essential to review the refund policy at the time of purchase, as terms may vary. Trusted providers like Manulife, Tugo, and 21st Century typically allow hassle-free cancellations.
Are monthly payments available for Super Visa insurance?
While Super Visa insurance usually requires full upfront payment for one year, some providers now offer monthly payment options through approved Canadian brokers.
These plans may involve a small financing fee or require a deposit up front. Monthly payments can make Super Visa insurance more affordable for families managing high premiums, especially for elderly applicants or those with pre-existing conditions.
Does Super Visa insurance cover prescription drugs and follow-up care?
Super Visa insurance typically covers emergency prescription medications related to a covered illness or accident, but it may not cover long-term medications or routine refills.
Some plans include limited coverage for follow-up visits or diagnostic tests, especially if linked to the initial emergency. It’s important to review each plan’s benefit summary carefully or consult a licensed advisor to ensure you choose a policy that meets the specific health needs of your visiting parents or grandparents.
Will my Super Visa insurance cover travel to other provinces in Canada?
Yes, most Super Visa insurance policies provide coverage throughout all provinces and territories in Canada, as long as the insured person is temporarily residing in Canada. However, coverage levels may vary if you change your location permanently or travel outside Canada.
Some plans also include limited emergency travel coverage for short trips to the U.S. or other countries. Always confirm with your insurer about any travel plans and review the territorial coverage limits in your policy to avoid surprises.
Super Visa insurance remains a mandatory requirement for the Canadian Super Visa program, with applicants needing a minimum of $100,000 in emergency medical coverage for one year, fully paid upfront from a Canadian insurer. This coverage includes emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, prescriptions, dental care, and repatriation. Insurance costs vary based on age, health conditions, coverage options, deductibles, and add-ons. In 2025, the best Super Visa insurance providers include Manulife, Secure Travel, 21st Century, TuGo, Manulife, Destination Canada, GMS, and Allianz. Seniors can save by choosing higher deductibles, excluding pre-existing condition coverage if stable, and paying annually. Manulife and GMS offer monthly payment options, while refunds are available for visa refusals or early returns.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada. Report on Super Visa Income Requirement, Appeal Process, Special Circumstances – Temporary Resident Visas. Government of Canada.