Canada offers public healthcare to residents, including new immigrants. To access free medical services, you must apply for a health card in the province where you live. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you get started.
1. Determine Your Eligibility
Each province and territory has its own rules, but in general:
- Permanent residents (PRs), work permit holders, and refugees are eligible.
- International students and visitors may need private health insurance.
- Some provinces have a waiting period (e.g., Ontario does not, but British Columbia and Quebec have a 3-month waiting period).
2. Find Your Province’s Health Insurance Program
- Ontario – OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan)
- British Columbia – MSP (Medical Services Plan)
- Alberta – AHCIP (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan)
- Quebec – RAMQ (Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec)
- Each province has its own health program, so check the official website for specific requirements.
3. Gather Required Documents
Most provinces require:
✔ Proof of Identity (passport, PR card, or work permit)
✔ Proof of Residency (rental agreement, utility bill, or bank statement)
✔ Proof of Immigration Status (confirmation of PR, study/work permit)
4. Apply for Your Health Card
- Visit a Service Center in your province (e.g., ServiceOntario, Service BC).
- Fill out an application form (available online or in-person).
- Submit documents and have your photo taken (in some provinces).
5. Wait for Approval
- Processing can take 2–8 weeks, depending on the province.
- You may receive a temporary document while waiting for your physical card.
6. Get Private Insurance If Needed
- If your province has a waiting period, consider private health insurance to cover medical costs.
- New immigrants can use providers like Blue Cross or Sun Life for temporary coverage.
7. Use Your Health Card
- Present your health card when visiting doctors, hospitals, or clinics.
- It covers basic medical services, but dental and vision care may require private insurance.