Which visa do parents need?
Most parents apply for a Canada Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa). The border officer usually allows a stay of up to 6 months per visit, and the visa can be valid for multiple entries.
Parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents can also consider the Super Visa, which allows much longer stays but has extra requirements such as private medical insurance and a minimum income for the child in Canada. We help you decide which option fits your family.
Documents from the parents (in India)
- Passports — current and old, showing any previous travel
- Recent photographs to IRCC specifications
- Bank statements for the last 6 months
- Income Tax Returns, pension proof or other income proof
- Property documents, fixed deposits or other assets in India
- Proof of family ties in India — other children, grandchildren, responsibilities
- Retirement or employment proof and an approved leave letter if still working
Documents from the child in Canada
- Invitation letter explaining the visit, dates and who pays for what
- Proof of status in Canada — citizenship, PR card, work permit or study permit
- Employment letter and recent pay slips
- Recent tax documents (for example, Notice of Assessment)
- Proof of address in Canada (lease or ownership)
Common reasons parents are refused
- The officer is not satisfied the parents will return to India after the visit
- Weak financial documents, or sudden large deposits without explanation
- Purpose of the visit not clearly explained
- Very long planned stay without a clear reason
- Mismatched details between the invitation letter and the application
Tips for a stronger application
- Plan a reasonable visit length with a clear purpose — a birth, a graduation, a family occasion.
- Show strong ties to India: property, other family members, ongoing responsibilities.
- Keep bank balances steady for several months before applying.
- Make sure every date and detail matches across all documents.
- Apply early — processing times change and can be long in busy seasons.
Frequently asked questions
How long can parents stay in Canada on a visitor visa?
Usually up to 6 months per entry. The border services officer decides the exact length when they arrive.
Can parents apply again if they were refused before?
Yes. There is usually no waiting period, but the new application must address the reasons for the earlier refusal. Applying again with the same documents rarely helps.
Do both parents need to apply separately?
Each person needs their own application, but parents travelling together usually apply at the same time with linked documents.