Changes to how the parents and grandparents super visa income requirement is calculated

Ottawa, March 20, 2026—Canada is taking back control of our immigration system and returning overall immigration to sustainable levels. At the same time, we know families are strongest when they’re together, and we remain committed to family reunification.

Starting March 31, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will change how it calculates family income for super visa eligibility, making the program more equitable and accessible to more families while ensuring parents and grandparents are financially supported during their stay in Canada.

The super visa is a multiple-entry visitor visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit their family in Canada for longer periods. An applicant’s host, that is, their child or grandchild in Canada, must provide proof that they meet the income requirements to support their family members while they’re here.

The new approach will provide hosts with two alternative ways to meet the income requirement:

• Extending the income assessment period: Hosts and their co-signer (if applicable) may meet or exceed the income requirement in either one of the two taxation years preceding the time of application. Previously, IRCC assessed only the year before.

• Allowing the income of the visiting parent or grandparent to be added: If the hosts and their co-signer (if applicable) meet the required minimum percentage of income, the income of the visiting parents and grandparents can be added to cover the remaining amount.

As of March 31, 2026, all applications already in processing, or submitted on or after that date, will be assessed against the new income requirements. Under these updated criteria, families who were previously eligible will continue to qualify. Those who wish to benefit from one of the alternative means must submit the necessary documents proving they meet the income requirement for their family size.