Are you an international student planning to study in Canada? If so, understanding student health insurance in Canada is an important part of your journey. Unlike Canadian citizens and permanent residents, international students are responsible for arranging their own health insurance coverage for the duration of their studies in Canada.
Navigating the system can be tricky, with various health insurance options available across different provinces. This guide aims to simplify the process, helping you understand everything about student insurance in Canada. By following it, you’ll be well-prepared to address any medical needs during your studies.
Health Care Services for Students by Province
Below are the details of the available healthcare services for students in each Canadian province:
Alberta
Public Health Insurance Available: Yes
If you plan to study in Alberta for six months or longer, you can apply for health insurance through the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). However, be aware that AHCIP only covers basic and primary health expenditures, so you’ll need additional coverage for services like dental care or prescription drugs. Students under 18 must be added to a parent or guardian’s insurance. Ensure that your application is submitted within 90 days of arriving in Alberta to secure coverage. If you’re not eligible for AHCIP, you should purchase private Canada international student insurance to cover any gaps.
British Columbia
Public Health Insurance Available: Yes
The Medical Services Plan (MSP) is available for students who will be living in British Columbia for more than six months. You can apply for MSP immediately upon arrival, but coverage will not begin until after you have been in BC for three months. To cover this waiting period, you can purchase temporary student travel insurance for Canada through iMED.
Additionally, MSP does not include many services, so you may want to explore extended health coverage options. Most schools offer plans that include supplementary benefits such as physical therapy and chiropractic services, which are helpful for maintaining overall health during your studies. For comprehensive coverage, consider additional student insurance Canada.
Manitoba
Public Health Insurance Available: No
Manitoba requires all its students to mandatorily subscribe to a health package known as the Manitoba International Student Health Plan. This plan covers emergency medical care, hospitalisation, doctor attendance, and X-rays. It also includes coverage for diagnostic services, laboratory tests, and some prescription medications, ensuring comprehensive protection for students.
New Brunswick
Public Health Insurance Available: Yes
Medicare may be available to international students in New Brunswick if they meet the eligibility criteria. Students must enrol full-time for at least one academic year. Since Medicare is only basic medical coverage, you will also want to explore extended health insurance, which is sometimes available from your institution or another provider. Extended plans can offer additional services like vision care and mental health services, which are crucial for overall student wellness.
Newfoundland and Labrador
Public Health Insurance Available: Yes
All international students (if enrolled full-time for at least 12 months) are automatically registered for the Foreign Health Insurance plan and receive free basic health coverage through the Medical Care Plan. For additional benefits, consider extended health insurance. Extended coverage can include dental care, prescription medications, and physiotherapy, offering a more comprehensive safety net for students.
Northwest Territories
Public Health Insurance Available: Yes
International students attending school in the Northwest Territories for more than 12 months are eligible for basic health care insurance through Northwest Territories Health Care (NWTHC). This basic coverage includes essential services such as doctor visits, hospital care, and some emergency services. However, it does not cover all medical expenses. For more comprehensive coverage, students should consider exploring private insurance options.
Nova Scotia
Public Health Insurance Available: No
International students in Nova Scotia must purchase health insurance, as the provincial program does not cover them. Typically, this insurance is provided by educational institutions. After residing in the province for 12 months, you can obtain a Nova Scotia Health Card, which grants access to Medical Services Insurance (MSI). MSI offers basic coverage, including doctor visits and hospital care. However, additional private insurance is recommended for services such as dental and vision care.
Nunavut
Public Health Insurance Available: Not Applicable
As there are no designated learning institutions for international students to study in Nunavut, health insurance is not issued.
Ontario
Public Health Insurance Available: No
Ontario does not provide provincial health insurance coverage to international students. However, higher education institutions offer health insurance packages for their students. Most universities use the University Health Insurance Plan, while colleges may use other providers. This insurance is included in your university fees and covers essential medical services such as doctor visits, hospital stays, and some diagnostic services.
Prince Edward Island
Public Health Insurance Available: Yes
International students studying in Prince Edward Island (PEI) for at least six months can apply for a PEI Health Card after three months of residency. Until then, you will need to have private insurance. If you are covered under your institution's health plan, check if you can opt out of it once you qualify for the PEI Health Card. The PEI Health Card offers basic coverage for doctor visits, emergency services, and hospital care, but additional private insurance is recommended for more comprehensive coverage.
Quebec
Public Health Insurance Available: Sometimes
Quebec has agreements with ten countries allowing residents from these countries to obtain health insurance through the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). If you are not from one of these partner countries, you will need to purchase a health plan through your institution or a private insurance provider. The RAMQ plan offers comprehensive coverage, including prescription medications and hospital services, to eligible international students from partner countries.
Saskatchewan
Public Health Insurance Available: Yes
International students studying in Saskatchewan for more than six months are covered under the Saskatchewan Health Plan at no additional cost. To receive this coverage, you need to obtain a Saskatchewan Health Card. If your institution automatically enrols you in a private plan, you may be able to opt-out if you have other coverage. The Saskatchewan Health Plan offers essential health services, including doctor visits, hospital care, and diagnostic services.
Yukon
Public Health Insurance Available: No
Yukon College is the only designated learning institution (DLI) in Yukon and mandates that international students be covered by a mandatory group health insurance plan while attending school. This plan provides basic health services, including doctor visits and hospital care. However, students may need additional private insurance for more comprehensive coverage.
Out-of-Province Medical Insurance
Provincial health care coverage may only apply to expenses incurred within that province. Check whether your additional health insurance covers travel outside of your province or Canada. If not, you will need to purchase separate travel insurance to cover medical expenses during your travels.
Conclusion
Medical insurance is crucial for international students in Canada. Make sure you understand the requirements and options available in your province to ensure you are well-covered throughout your studies. With the right plan in place, you can focus on your education without worrying about unexpected medical expenses.