1. Understanding Canada’s Public Healthcare System
Canada provides publicly funded healthcare, meaning that most medical services, including doctor visits and hospital stays, are free for those covered. However, each province and territory manages its own health insurance program, leading to differences in eligibility and coverage.
Who is Eligible for Public Healthcare?
Most permanent residents, work permit holders, and refugees qualify for provincial health insurance. However, in some provinces, new immigrants must complete a waiting period before receiving coverage.
What is Covered by Public Healthcare?
- Doctor visits
- Hospital stays and emergency care
- Surgeries and diagnostic tests (X-rays, MRIs, blood work)
- Maternity care and childbirth
- Specialist referrals
What is NOT Covered?
- Prescription drugs (except for specific groups like seniors and low-income individuals)
- Dental care
- Vision care (eye exams, glasses, contact lenses)
- Physiotherapy, chiropractic, and mental health counseling (limited coverage in some provinces)
2. Provincial Healthcare Plans and Waiting Periods
Each province and territory has its own health insurance plan, with different waiting periods for new immigrants.
| Province/Territory | Waiting Period for New Residents | Healthcare Plan Name |
| Ontario (ON) | No waiting period | OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) |
| British Columbia (BC) | Up to 3 months | MSP (Medical Services Plan) |
| Alberta (AB) | No waiting period | AHCIP (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan) |
| Quebec (QC) | Up to 3 months | RAMQ (Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec) |
| Manitoba (MB) | Up to 3 months | Manitoba Health |
| Saskatchewan (SK) | No waiting period | Saskatchewan Health |
| Nova Scotia (NS) | No waiting period | MSI (Medical Services Insurance) |
| New Brunswick (NB) | Up to 3 months | NB Medicare |
| Newfoundland & Labrador (NL) | No waiting period | MCP (Medical Care Plan) |
| Prince Edward Island (PEI) | Up to 3 months | PEI Health Card |
| Northwest Territories (NT) | No waiting period | NWT Health Care Plan |
| Yukon (YT) | No waiting period | Yukon Health Care Plan |
| Nunavut (NU) | No waiting period | Nunavut Health Care Plan |
Note: If a province has a waiting period, new immigrants should get private health insurance to cover medical expenses until their public healthcare begins.
3. Private Health Insurance for New Immigrants
During the waiting period (or if a person is not eligible for public healthcare), private insurance helps cover medical costs. It can also provide coverage for services not included in public healthcare, such as dental, vision, and prescription drugs.
Who Should Get Private Insurance?
- New immigrants in provinces with a waiting period (BC, QC, MB, NB, PEI)
- International students and temporary workers who are not eligible for public healthcare
- Visitors and newcomers on a Super Visa (who must show proof of private health insurance)
Top Private Insurance Providers in Canada
- Blue Cross – Comprehensive plans for new immigrants
- Sun Life – Health and dental coverage
- Manulife – Insurance for visitors and new residents
- Cigna Global – International health insurance
- Allianz – Short-term health insurance options
4. How to Apply for Public Healthcare
Once eligible, new immigrants should apply for their provincial health card as soon as possible. The process generally involves:
- Filling out an application form (online or at a service center).
- Providing identification and proof of status, such as a passport, PR card, or work permit.
- Waiting for approval and receiving a health card in the mail.
