Apply for Canada insurance for immigrants 2024 – live in Canada

Moving to Canada comes with many adjustments, and one of the most important is securing health insurance. Canada provides public health coverage through provincial and territorial programs, ensuring residents have access to medical care. If you are a new immigrant, here’s everything you need to know about applying for health insurance in 2024.

Who is Eligible?

To qualify for public health insurance in Canada, you must be a citizen, permanent resident, or an eligible temporary resident. Each province and territory has its own residency requirements, but in general, you must live in the province for at least six months each year to maintain coverage.

When to Apply?

You should apply for health insurance as soon as you arrive in Canada. Some provinces, such as British Columbia and Ontario, have a waiting period of up to three months before coverage begins. During this time, consider purchasing private health insurance to cover medical expenses.

Applying for insurance depends on your location in Canada and below is a province-by-province guide to insurance options and eligibility.

Public Health Insurance (Provincial and Territorial Health Plans)

British Columbia (BC) – Medical Services Plan (MSP)

Covers: Doctor visits, hospital stays, diagnostic tests, medically necessary procedures.
Eligibility: Permanent residents, work permit holders (with valid work permit for at least six months), refugees, and some international students.
Waiting Period: Up to three months. Private insurance is recommended during this time.

Alberta – Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)

Covers: Doctor visits, hospital services, and medically necessary procedures.
Eligibility: Citizens, permanent residents, and eligible work permit holders (with a permit valid for 12 months or more).
Waiting Period: No waiting period; coverage starts immediately upon approval.

Saskatchewan – Saskatchewan Health Card

Covers: Hospital care, doctor visits, and some prescription drugs for seniors.
Eligibility: Citizens, permanent residents, some work permit holders (valid for at least six months).
Waiting Period: Up to three months.

Manitoba – Manitoba Health and Seniors Care

Covers: Doctor visits, hospital services, and some specialists.
Eligibility: Citizens, permanent residents, and eligible work permit holders (one-year permit minimum).
Waiting Period: No waiting period for permanent residents; temporary residents may need private insurance.

Ontario – Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)

Covers: Doctor visits, hospital stays, emergency services.
Eligibility: Citizens, permanent residents, work permit holders (full-time employment for at least six months).
Waiting Period: Up to three months.

Quebec – Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)

Covers: Hospital and doctor services, some prescription drugs.
Eligibility: Citizens, permanent residents, work permit holders (valid for at least six months).
Waiting Period: Up to three months (some exceptions for refugees and temporary workers).

Atlantic Provinces (New Brunswick, Nova Scotia, PEI, Newfoundland & Labrador)

Coverage varies slightly, but all cover doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency services.

Citizens, permanent residents, and eligible temporary residents qualify.

Some provinces have waiting periods of up to three months.

Territories (Yukon, Northwest Territories, Nunavut)

Health coverage is available for residents, including hospital and doctor visits.

Eligibility is based on residency status and employment

Private Health Insurance

Since public health insurance does not cover dental, vision, and prescription drugs in most provinces, many Canadians get private insurance.
Eligibility: Anyone can purchase private health insurance, including visitors and temporary residents.
Providers: Sun Life, Manulife, Blue Cross, and others.

Life Insurance

Covers: Provides financial support to beneficiaries after the policyholder’s death.
Eligibility: Available to all residents; some plans require a medical exam.
Types: Term life, whole life, and universal life insurance.

Disability Insurance

Covers: Income replacement if you cannot work due to illness or injury.
Eligibility: Offered through employers or private providers; self-employed individuals can purchase plans.

Auto Insurance (Mandatory in All Provinces and Territories)

Covers: Liability, collision, and comprehensive vehicle protection.
Eligibility: All drivers must have insurance before driving.
Providers: Private insurers in most provinces; public insurers in BC (ICBC), Manitoba (MPI), and Saskatchewan (SGI).

Home and Tenant Insurance

Covers: Homeowners – property damage, theft, liability; Tenants – personal belongings and liability.
Eligibility: Available to all homeowners and renters.

Step-by-Step Application Process

1. Gather Required Documents – You need proof of immigration status (such as a permanent resident card or work permit), proof of residence (such as a rental agreement or utility bill), and identification (such as a passport or driver’s license).
2. Complete the Application Form – Each province has its own application form for health coverage. You can download it from the official provincial website or obtain it from a local health office.
3. Submit Your Application – Depending on the province, you may need to apply online, by mail, or in person at a government health office.
4. Receive Your Health Card – If your application is approved, you will receive a health card that you must present when accessing medical services.

Key Considerations

Each province and territory has different rules, so check with the local health authority for specific details.

Temporary residents, such as international students and workers, may need to meet additional requirements.

If you move to a different province, you may need to reapply for health insurance in your new location.

Applying for health insurance as a new immigrant in Canada is essential to ensuring access to medical care. By following these steps and meeting the eligibility requirements, you can secure your coverage and have peace of mind in your new home.