When people think about moving to Canada, one of the first questions they often have is, “How does the healthcare system work?” In many countries, healthcare may not be provided by the government, or it might be entirely government-funded. Understanding how healthcare functions in Canada is crucial for those planning to move here.
One of the most common concerns is how to find a doctor in Canada. If you have a health issue, you will naturally wonder how to see a physician. The answer to this question largely depends on your status in Canada—whether you’re a temporary resident, a permanent resident, or a citizen. For this guide, we will dwell on the health insurance for temporary tesidents in Canada.
Health Insurance for Temporary Residents in Canada
For those coming to Canada as Temporary Residents, such as visitors, it’s important to know that you do not qualify for provincial healthcare. Healthcare in Canada is managed by each province. For instance, in Ontario, it’s called the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). However, visitors to Ontario need to purchase medical insurance to cover any medical emergencies since the government does not fund healthcare for visitors. This means that any medical issues that arise during your stay will be out-of-pocket expenses unless you’re covered by private insurance.
If you are a temporary resident, such as a student or worker, the situation varies. Students in Ontario typically pay for private insurance through their school, which is often included in tuition fees. This private insurance allows students to access medical services while studying in Canada.
For workers, it’s a bit different. You may qualify for an OHIP card, which provides medical coverage, but certain conditions must be met. You need to be working full-time, in a permanent position (at least six months long). To apply, you would take your job contract or a letter from your employer to a Service Ontario office to register for an OHIP card. The letter should confirm that you’re working at least 30 hours a week in a permanent position lasting at least six months.
What is the Waiting Period for OHIP Coverage?
Temporary visitors should note that there is a waiting period before their OHIP coverage becomes active. Even if you arrive with a full-time job, it will take about three months for your OHIP insurance to start. Therefore, try and purchase temporary medical insurance to cover you during this waiting period.
For people on an international experience class permit, like a working holiday visa, there is often confusion about medical coverage. These individuals may think they can’t get medical coverage because they need to show proof of medical insurance before arriving in Canada. However, if they secure a full-time, permanent job, they can apply for an OHIP card by presenting a letter from their employer at Service Ontario. This card will provide coverage while they are in Canada.
It’s quite different for permanent residents…
When it comes to Permanent Residents, the process is similar to that for Canadian citizens, but with a few differences. Permanent Residents do not need to show proof of employment to qualify for OHIP. They can simply go to a Service Ontario office, declare that they are residing in Ontario, and register for OHIP. Like with temporary residents, there is a three-month waiting period before OHIP coverage begins.
During this time, the resident has to purchase temporary medical insurance to cover any potential medical needs, especially for those coming to Canada with children, as the three-month waiting period also applies to them, even if they have Canadian citizenship through their parents.
Accessing Healthcare Once Covered by OHIP
Once you’re covered by OHIP, you can access most medical services, including visits to family doctors and specialists, without charge. These services are covered under OHIP, making healthcare accessible for those in the province. However, there may be a shortage of doctors in some areas of Ontario, which can make it challenging to find a family physician.
To address this issue, the province has a program called Healthcare Connect. This program helps residents find a family doctor by placing them on a waiting list.
Permanent Residents should register for this service as soon as they know they are moving to Canada. This way, they can secure a family doctor for themselves and their family.
Employer-Provided Medical Insurance
Some employers in Canada provide additional medical insurance as part of their benefits package. This insurance often covers services that OHIP does not, such as dental care, prescription medications, and vision care. However, it’s important to remember that you can only access these additional benefits if you have an OHIP card.
Therefore, even if you are covered by employer-provided insurance, you still need to wait for your OHIP eligibility before accessing these services. Always remember to purchase temporary medical insurance when you first arrive, as there will be a waiting period before government-funded insurance, such as OHIP, becomes active. Once you’re covered, you’ll have access to medical services to ensure your health and well-being while living in Canada.
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