Canada's provincial health plans only cover residents. Visitors, including parents and grandparents visiting family, new immigrants waiting for coverage, and Canadians returning after a long absence, pay the full cost of any medical care they need.
Medical care in Canada is expensive for visitors
An emergency room visit, a few days in hospital or an ambulance ride can cost thousands of dollars. Without insurance, those bills go to the visitor, or to the family who invited them.
What visitor medical insurance covers
- Emergency hospital stays, doctor and specialist fees
- Diagnostic tests such as X-rays, ultrasound and blood work
- Prescription drugs prescribed during an emergency
- Ambulance and repatriation
- Many plans also cover stable pre-existing conditions
When to buy
Buy before the visitor arrives. Policies bought after arrival usually have a waiting period of 48 hours to 8 days before illness is covered.
Compare visitor insurance quotes instantly, or call 416-272-3140 and Paramjit will help you choose.
This article is general information only and not insurance, legal or immigration advice.
Get a free Super Visa & Visitor Insurance quote
Talk to Paramjit Multani — we compare Canada's leading insurers and explain every plan in plain language.