Super Visa vs TRV: which Canadian visa is right for you?
For parents and grandparents, the Super Visa allows stays of up to 5 years at a time, while a standard Visitor Visa (TRV) typically allows up to 6 months.
Side-by-side comparison
| Feature | Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) (Super Visa) | Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) (TRV) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Temporary | Short stay |
| Who it's for | Parents and grandparents of Canadians who want long, multiple-entry visits without sponsorship. | Visa-required nationals visiting Canada for tourism, family or short business. |
| Government cost | ~CA$100 (visa) + ~CA$85 biometrics; plus mandatory medical insurance | ~CA$100 (plus ~CA$85 biometrics) |
| Processing time | Varies by visa office (weeks to a few months) | Varies widely by country (weeks to a few months) |
| Length of stay | Up to 5 years per entry; valid up to 10 years | Usually up to 6 months per entry |
| Where to apply | Online from outside Canada | Online from outside (or inside) Canada |
| Work rights | No | No |
| Pathway to PR | No PR; it is a long-stay visitor option as an alternative to PGP sponsorship. | No PR; visitors must apply under a separate immigration program to settle. |
Which is right for you?
Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) (Super Visa)
Parents and grandparents of Canadians who want long, multiple-entry visits without sponsorship.
Full Super Visa guide →Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) (TRV)
Visa-required nationals visiting Canada for tourism, family or short business.
Full TRV guide →Frequently asked questions
Which is cheaper, Super Visa or TRV?
On indicative 2025-26 government costs, Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) (Super Visa) is the lowest at ~CA$100 (visa) + ~CA$85 biometrics; plus mandatory medical insurance. Government fees change periodically - confirm before applying.
What's the main difference between Super Visa and TRV?
Super Visa (Parents and Grandparents) (Super Visa) is for parents and grandparents of Canadians who want long, multiple-entry visits without sponsorship. Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa) (TRV) is for visa-required nationals visiting Canada for tourism, family or short business.