Canada updates its Super Visa income requirements.. So, if you’re planning to bring your parents or grandparents to Canada under the Super Visa program, there’s an important update you need to know. As of July 29, 2025, the Canadian government has increased the minimum income requirements that a host must meet to sponsor their family members. The update aligns with the latest Low-Income Cut-Off (LICO) figures and reflects a 3.9% rise compared to 2024.
This change means that Canadian citizens and permanent residents who want their parents or grandparents to join them under a Super Visa must now demonstrate a higher gross income, based on their total family size.
Updated Income Requirements Based On Family Size
If you’re hosting one or more parents or grandparents, your gross annual income must meet the threshold outlined below. These income levels are updated annually and based on the size of your family unit.
| Family Size | 2025 Minimum Income | 2024 Minimum Income |
| 1 person | $30,526 | $29,380 |
| 2 persons | $38,002 | $36,576 |
| 3 persons | $46,720 | $44,966 |
| 4 persons | $56,724 | $54,594 |
| 5 persons | $64,336 | $61,920 |
| 6 persons | $72,560 | $69,834 |
| 7 persons | $80,784 | $77,750 |
| Each additional person | $8,224 | $7,916 |
These figures are critical — failing to meet them could result in your Super Visa application being refused.
Can You Combine Incomes To Meet The Requirement?
Yes. If your income alone isn’t enough, your spouse or common-law partner can co-sign the application to combine household income and meet the minimum threshold. However, both signatories will be legally responsible for supporting the visiting parents or grandparents for the duration of their stay.
What Is The Super Visa And Why Is It Popular?
As Canada updates its Super Visa income requirements, it is vital to know what it is.
Well, the Super Visa allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to stay in Canada for extended periods, without the need to renew their visitor status frequently. Unlike the standard visitor visa (which permits stays of up to six months), the Super Visa allows eligible relatives to:
- Stay for up to 5 years at a time
- Have multiple entries for up to 10 years
- Enter Canada faster than through the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)
It’s a great option for families waiting on permanent residence processing or those simply looking to reunite for longer periods.
How Is The Required Income Calculated?
The LICO thresholds are used to determine the minimum income required to sponsor parents or grandparents. These cut-off levels represent the minimum necessary income to avoid living in poverty, based on the number of people in a household.
For Super Visa purposes, IRCC uses the gross income of the sponsor (and co-signer if applicable), and this figure is reassessed annually. The 2025 LICO figures have been increased by 3.9% from the 2024 levels, reflecting rising living costs in Canada.
Who Counts Toward Family Size?
Family size isn’t just about who lives in your household today — it includes everyone you’re financially responsible for. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), you must include the following:
- Yourself (the sponsor)
- Your spouse or common-law partner
- Any dependent children you or your partner have
- The parent(s) or grandparent(s) applying for the Super Visa
- Any other individuals currently being sponsored whose undertaking is still in effect
- Any other individuals applying under Super Visa at the same time
This comprehensive approach ensures IRCC has an accurate picture of your financial responsibilities.
What Documents Prove Income?
To confirm that you meet the income requirement, you must submit official financial documents. IRCC accepts several forms of proof, including:
- Notice of Assessment (NOA) from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA)
- T1 or T4 tax forms from the most recent tax year
- Pay stubs for the last 12 months
- Employment Insurance (EI) statements, if applicable
- A signed letter from your employer outlining your job, salary, and employment details
- Bank statements showing income deposits
- If self-employed, a letter from an accountant verifying your annual income
Providing strong, clear documentation will help speed up your application and reduce the chance of delays or refusals.
Super Visa vs. Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP)
As Canada updates its Super Visa income requirements, let’s understand the difference between Super Visa and the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP).
While both the Super Visa and the PGP allow family reunification, they offer very different outcomes.
| Feature | Super Visa | PGP (Permanent Residence) |
| Status | Visitor | Permanent Resident |
| Duration | Up to 10 years (5 years per stay) | Indefinite |
| Work/Study | Not allowed | Allowed |
| Health Insurance | Private (required) | Provincial/Territorial eligibility |
| Availability | Year-round | Lottery system, limited annual intake |
The PGP leads to permanent residence, meaning long-term stability, access to healthcare, and eligibility to work or study. However, it is only available through an annual lottery, and invitations are still going out from the 2020 pool.
In contrast, the Super Visa is more accessible. It’s available year-round, and any eligible host can apply directly without relying on a draw.
Why Is This Change Important?
The updated income thresholds reflect the reality of rising living costs in Canada. As inflation impacts households across the country, the government aims to ensure that sponsors can financially support their visiting family members without relying on public services.
This increase may make it harder for some families to qualify, but for many, it simply means adjusting documentation or considering joint applications with spouses to meet the updated income bar.
Final Thoughts
If you’re planning to invite your parents or grandparents to Canada in 2025 under the Super Visa program, it’s essential to:
- Review the new LICO-based income thresholds
- Carefully calculate your family size
- Gather the right financial documentation
- Consider co-signing with a partner if needed
These steps will help ensure your application meets IRCC’s updated requirements and increases your chances of bringing your loved ones to Canada for extended visits.
MakeHomeCanada, a Canadian immigration leader, promises excellence and tailored pathways for your Canadian journey. Get in touch with us at [email protected].
