Waiting periods and temporary insurance

When you first arrive in Canada, you may not be covered by public health insurance right away. Without insurance, medical costs during this time can be very high.

What the waiting period is

• According to IRCC, in some provinces you may wait up to 3 months before public health insurance starts.
• For example, British Columbia says MSP coverage may start 3 months after you arrive in the province and advises buying private insurance while you wait.
• Ontario, by contrast, says OHIP no longer has a waiting period: eligible people are covered immediately.
• Alberta says there may be a waiting period when you move from another province or country.

Temporary insurance

• IRCC advises buying private health insurance for the waiting period.
• You can buy it before leaving Vietnam or as soon as you arrive. Choose a plan that starts on your arrival date.
• Read the coverage carefully: emergencies, hospital stays, pre-existing conditions and limits.

Emergencies before you have a card

• In an emergency, go to the nearest hospital or call 911.
• IRCC notes emergency services are generally free for people with public coverage even without their card, but there may be restrictions depending on immigration status. People without coverage may have to pay.

What to do

• Apply for provincial health insurance in your first week.
• Ask your employer about group health benefits and when they start.
• Keep medical receipts to claim from private insurance.

Note Bring your family's vaccination records. According to IRCC, children need immunization records to enrol in school.