Canada is gradually tightening its immigration rules, affecting those planning to move or visit the country. Initially, the country stopped accepting PR (Permanent Residency) applications for parents.
Now, individuals applying for a Super Visa to join their children or relatives must have a valid health insurance policy.
On Thursday, Canada announced that Super Visa applicants are now required to provide proof of a minimum level of private health coverage to be eligible.
This is because they are not covered by provincial or territorial health care plans. Previously, health insurance proof was only acceptable from Canadian health insurance providers.
New Health Insurance Requirements for Super Visa
The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has updated its rules, allowing Super Visa applicants to purchase private health insurance policies from companies outside Canada.
These insurance providers must be authorized by the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI) and listed as federally regulated financial institutions.
To confirm if a foreign insurance company is authorized to offer accident and sickness insurance, applicants can visit the OSFI website.
According to a Government of Canada spokesperson, more details about these changes are available on the IRCC website.
Super Visa holders must maintain valid health insurance for their entire stay in Canada.
If the insurance policy expires before their departure, they are required to renew it while in Canada. This coverage is mandatory for each entry into the country.
Rising Costs and the Importance of Private Health Insurance
Pradeep, a Canadian citizen, highlighted that these changes help families reunite while ensuring that parents
and grandparents have adequate health insurance. However, he noted the high costs of private health care in Canada.
For example, if an elderly person falls ill after arriving in Canada, the costs of private medical care can be overwhelming.
Due to these factors, more individuals, particularly Punjabis, are opting for Super Visas instead of PR applications.
A Super Visa allows the holder to stay in Canada continuously for up to five years. Given this extended stay, maintaining a health insurance policy is crucial.
