Yes, but only from the right kind of company. Since January 28, 2025, IRCC accepts Super Visa insurance from a foreign insurer if it is authorized by OSFI (the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions) to provide accident and sickness insurance, appears on OSFI's list of regulated institutions, and issues the policy through its insurance business in Canada. A regular travel or health policy bought in another country usually does not qualify.
The rule in plain words
Before 2025, Super Visa insurance had to come from a Canadian insurance company. IRCC widened this so that some foreign insurers can also be used — but only those already regulated in Canada by OSFI for accident and sickness insurance. Insurance brokers and claims administrators do not appear on the OSFI list because they are not insurers.
How to check a company in 3 steps
- Open the OSFI "Who we regulate" list.
- Search for the exact legal name of the insurer (not the website or agent name).
- Confirm it is authorized for accident and sickness insurance and that your policy is issued under its Canadian business. If unsure, OSFI can confirm by email.
Official guidance: IRCC — Super visa for parents and grandparents.
Canadian vs. foreign insurer
| Canadian insurer | OSFI-authorized foreign insurer | |
|---|---|---|
| Accepted by IRCC | Yes | Yes, if all OSFI conditions are met |
| Claims in Canada | Built for Canadian hospitals and direct billing | Check how claims are handled in Canada |
| Advice and service | Local licensed advisors | Varies |
| Risk of refusal at application | Low when requirements are met | Higher if the company or policy doesn't clearly qualify |
What to weigh before buying abroad
- Refused application: if the officer isn't satisfied the insurer qualifies, the application can be refused — costing months.
- Claims: Canadian hospitals bill at full cost; make sure the insurer has a 24/7 Canadian assistance service and can pay providers directly.
- Pre-existing conditions: compare stability rules carefully — a cheaper policy that excludes the conditions your parents have isn't cheaper in the end.
- Refunds and renewals: confirm how refunds work if the visa is refused, and how renewal works during a 5-year stay.
Written and reviewed by Pankaj Bhatia, PFA, CHSLicensed insurance advisor (ON, BC, AB, MB, SK, NB, NS) · 11 years in financial services · Published October 29, 2026 · Last updated October 29, 2026