Two weeks after launching the Canadian Parent and Grandparent Super Visa, the first visa has been issued at the Canadian mission in Manila on December 14, 2011, Minister of Citizenship, Immigration and Multiculturalism Jason Kenney announced on December 19, 2011.

In his announcement, Minister Kenny repeated the Canadian government's commitment of processing the Parent and Grandparent Super Visa in "less than eight weeks" and reuniting families through the visa type.

"We've issued the first of the Super Visas in just two weeks and we remain committed to reuniting families through the Super Visa in a timely manner" he said.

As an option for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and permanent residents looking to visit their families for an extended period of time, the Canadian Super Visa allows parents and grandparents to stay in Canada for up to 24 months at a time without having to renew their status.

"With the Super Visa, we have taken a common sense approach that allows parents and grandparents to spend extended periods of time with their loved ones in Canada, while at the same time, acting responsibly in protecting Canadian taxpayers," Minister Kenney added. "I’m pleased that the response to this program has been so positive."

Thanks to the Super Visa, visitors to Canada will also pay fewer fees and have greater certainty that they will be able to enjoy the company of their families in Canada for a longer period of time.