Super Visa Income Requirements: Do You Meet The LICO Threshold?

The Super Visa is a special visa that allows parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents to visit Canada for up to five years per entry. With a validity of up to ten years, it offers a long-term solution for family reunification. However, to qualify, sponsors must meet the Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) threshold, which ensures they have the financial stability to support their visiting relatives.

In this blog, we’ll explain what the LICO threshold is, how it is calculated, and what documents you need to prove your income.

What Is The LICO Threshold?

The Low Income Cut-Off (LICO) is the minimum income a household needs to cover basic living expenses. The Government of Canada uses the LICO to assess whether a Super Visa sponsor can financially support their parents or grandparents during their visit.

The LICO amount is based on:

• Family size (including the sponsor, their dependents, and the visiting parent or grandparent).
  
• Annual income before taxes.
  
• The most recent LICO rates, which are updated each year by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
  

✅ Why Does LICO Matter?

• It ensures the sponsor can financially support their family members.
  
• It prevents visitors from becoming a burden on public services.
  
• It demonstrates that the visitor will have financial security during their stay.
  

LICO Threshold For 2025

To sponsor a parent or grandparent under the Super Visa, you must meet the LICO threshold based on your family size. Here’s the projected LICO table for 2025:

Family Size	Minimum Income Required (LICO)
1 person (sponsor only)	$29,380
2 people	$36,576
3 people	$44,966
4 people	$54,594
5 people	$61,920
6 people	$69,834
7 people	$77,750
Each additional person	+$7,916

✅ Example:
If you’re sponsoring your mother and you live with your spouse and two children, your family size is 5 people. Therefore, you need to show an income of at least $61,920 to meet the LICO threshold.

How To Calculate Your Family Size

When calculating family size for the LICO requirement, include:

• Yourself (the sponsor).
  
• Your spouse or common-law partner (if applicable).
  
• Any dependent children.
  
• The parent(s) or grandparent(s) applying for the Super Visa.
  

✅ Example:
If you are married with two children and plan to invite both parents, your family size is:

• You (1) + spouse (1) + two children (2) + two parents (2) = 6 people.
  
• According to the 2025 LICO table, you need to demonstrate a minimum income of $69,834.
  

Documents Required To Prove Your Income

To meet the LICO requirement, you need to provide clear proof of your income. The following documents are commonly required:

1. Notice of Assessment (NOA):
   
   • Your latest NOA from the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA).
     
   • It shows your total income from the previous tax year.
     
2. T4 or T1 Slips:
   
   • Proof of employment income.
     
   • T4 shows income from your employer, while T1 shows self-employment income.
     
3. Employment Letter:
   
   • Confirmation of your job position, salary, and employment status.
     
   • It should include the company’s name, contact information, and date of employment.
     
4. Recent Pay Stubs:
   
   • To verify your current income level.
     
   • Provide pay stubs from the last three to six months.
     
5. Bank Statements:
   
   • To demonstrate your financial stability.
     
   • Show consistent deposits from your salary or business income.
     

✅ Tip:
Submit multiple financial documents to make your application stronger and reduce the risk of refusal.

What If You Don’t Meet The LICO Threshold?

If you fail to meet the LICO requirement, your Super Visa application could be refused. Here’s what you can do:

1. Include a Co-Sponsor:
   
   • You can combine income with your spouse or common-law partner.
     
   • Both of your incomes will be considered together.
     
2. Increase Your Income:
   
   • Consider waiting until you have a higher income before applying.
     
   • Submit the application after your annual tax filing if you expect a higher income.
     
3. Add Additional Financial Proof:
   
   • If your income is slightly below the threshold, include proof of savings or assets.
     
   • This demonstrates extra financial security.
     

✅ Tip:
If you’re unsure about meeting the LICO threshold, consider consulting with an immigration expert for guidance.

Super Visa Insurance: Additional Financial Requirement

In addition to the LICO threshold, applicants must also show proof of private medical insurance. The insurance must:

• Be valid for at least one year.
  
• Cover a minimum of $100,000 in healthcare expenses.
  
• Include coverage for hospitalization, medical care, and repatriation.
  

✅ Why Is This Important?

• It ensures visitors have adequate healthcare coverage during their stay.
  
• It reduces the risk of the visitor becoming financially dependent on Canadian healthcare services.
  

Tips For A Strong Super Visa Application

To improve your chances of approval:

• Accurate Financial Proof:
  - Ensure your income documents clearly demonstrate you meet the LICO threshold.
  
• Comprehensive Invitation Letter:
  - Write a detailed letter explaining the purpose of the visit, including financial support details.
  
• Valid Medical Insurance:
  - Include proof of health insurance coverage that meets the requirements.
  
• Clear Travel Plans:
  - Outline a visit itinerary, including accommodation details.
  
• Show Ties to Home Country:
  - Your parent or grandparent should include proof of strong ties to their home country, such as property ownership or employment.
  

Why Does LICO Matter For The Super Visa?

Meeting the LICO threshold is critical because:

• It shows the sponsor’s financial stability.
  
• It reassures the government that the visitor will not rely on public funds.
  
• It proves the visitor will be financially secure during their stay.
  

Conclusion

The LICO threshold is a key component of the Super Visa application. Sponsors must demonstrate that they have the financial capacity to support their parents or grandparents during their extended visit.

To maximize your chances of approval:

• Calculate your family size accurately.
  
• Submit comprehensive financial proof, including NOA, pay stubs, and employment letters.
  
• Consider combining income with a co-sponsor if necessary.
  

By carefully preparing your financial documents and meeting the LICO threshold, you can ensure a strong and successful Super Visa application.