Edmonton is a city known for its tight-knit communities and the importance of family. For many residents, bringing parents or grandparents from abroad via the Super Visa program is the best way to bridge the distance. However, with the Parents and Grandparents Program (PGP) intake remaining closed for 2026, the Super Visa has become the primary pathway for extended family stays.
One of the most critical — and often most expensive — requirements for this visa is mandatory medical insurance. For seniors, finding a plan that is both affordable and comprehensive in the Edmonton market can be a challenge.
In this guide, we break down the 5 most affordable Super Visa insurance plans tailored for seniors, specifically looking at providers that offer great value for those residing in Alberta.
Understanding the Super Visa Insurance Requirements
Before diving into the providers, it is important to remember that the Canadian government (IRCC) has strict, non-negotiable standards for your insurance policy. To be valid, the plan must:
- Be issued by a Canadian insurance company (or an OSFI-approved provider).
- Provide a minimum of $100,000 in emergency medical coverage.
- Be valid for at least one full year (365 days) from the date of entry.
- Cover health care, hospitalization, and repatriation.
- Be fully paid upfront (or through an approved installment plan with a deposit).
The 5 Most Affordable Plans for Seniors in Edmonton
1. Group Medical Services (GMS): Best for Competitive Pricing
GMS is frequently cited as a top choice for families in Edmonton looking for the lowest entry-level premiums. Their “Essential” plans are designed specifically for those who need to meet the $100,000 requirement without overpaying for unnecessary “bells and whistles.”
- Why it’s affordable: They offer a streamlined application process and competitive rates for healthy seniors.
- Key Benefit: They cover stable pre-existing conditions after a 180-day stability period, which is standard but reliable.
- Best for: Healthy seniors who want the most budget-friendly compliant policy.
2. Secure Travel (RIMI): Best for Older Seniors (Ages 75+)
As seniors get older, insurance premiums typically skyrocket. Secure Travel (underwritten by RIMI) has carved out a niche by offering “Standard” and “Enhanced” plans that remain relatively affordable even for those in the 75–85 age bracket.
- Why it’s affordable: Their “Standard” plan limits certain secondary benefits to keep the primary emergency medical premium low.
- Key Benefit: They offer monthly payment plans, which can help Edmonton families manage the large upfront cost of a one-year policy.
- Best for: Seniors over age 75 or families who prefer to pay in installments.
3. Allianz Global Assistance: Best for Value-Added Services
While Allianz might not always be the absolute “cheapest” in terms of raw premium, they offer incredible value for money. For seniors living in Edmonton, having access to Allianz’s massive global network and 24/7 multilingual support is a major perk.
- Why it’s affordable: Their plans are highly scalable. You can adjust your deductible to significantly lower your premium.
- Key Benefit: High financial stability (A+ rating) ensures that claims are handled efficiently, preventing out-of-pocket stress.
- Best for: Families who want a reputable brand name with flexible deductible options.
4. TuGo: Best for Customizable Coverage
TuGo is a favorite among Edmonton insurance brokers because of its flexibility. If your parents have a specific medical history, TuGo allows you to add “riders” or specific coverage for unstable pre-existing conditions that other insurers might flatly refuse.
- Why it’s affordable: You only pay for what you need. If your parent is very healthy, the basic plan is extremely competitive.
- Key Benefit: One of the most flexible refund policies in the industry if your loved ones decide to return home earlier than a year.
- Best for: Seniors with managed health conditions who need custom stability periods.
5. 21st Century Travel Insurance: Best for Healthy Seniors
21st Century is often the “go-to” for healthy seniors who want a no-nonsense, high-limit policy. They are known for having a very straightforward medical questionnaire which can lead to lower rates for those who qualify.
- Why it’s affordable: They offer deep discounts for “vanishing deductibles” and have very competitive rates for the 60–70 age group.
- Key Benefit: Excellent coverage for “follow-up visits” after an emergency, which many budget plans exclude.
- Best for: Younger seniors (under 70) with a clean bill of health.
How to Lower Your Premiums in Edmonton
If you find that the quotes are still a bit high, consider these three “pro-tips” that local Edmonton brokers often recommend:
- Increase Your Deductible: This is the fastest way to drop your price. By choosing a $1,000 or $2,500 deductible, you can often save 15% to 25% on the total premium. Just ensure you have that “deductible” amount saved in an emergency fund.
- Look for Couple Discounts: Many providers (like GMS and Allianz) offer a 5% or 10% discount if you purchase a policy for both parents at the same time.
- The “No-Claims” Refund: Choose a policy that offers a pro-rated refund. If your parents stay for only 8 months and never make a claim, you can get the remaining 4 months of premium back.
Why Edmonton Seniors Need Local Advice
Healthcare costs in Alberta can be steep for non-residents. A single day in an Edmonton hospital (like the Royal Alexandra or University of Alberta Hospital) can cost a visitor upwards of $3,000 to $5,000. Without a $100,000 policy, a minor accident could become a major financial disaster for the sponsoring family.
Conclusion
Finding the “most affordable Super Visa Insurance Edmonton” plan isn’t just about the lowest number on the screen; it’s about finding the plan that will actually pay out when you need it. For most Edmontonians in 2026, GMS and Secure Travel offer the best raw pricing, while TuGo and Allianz offer the best balance of flexibility and protection.
Would you like me to help you calculate a sample quote for a specific age and health condition to see which of these providers comes out on top for you?