Canada's universal healthcare system is one of its most celebrated features, but as a newcomer you are not automatically covered the moment you land. Each province manages its own health insurance plan with different names, waiting periods, and application processes. This guide tells you what to do in your province to get covered as fast as possible.
Ontario. OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan)
No OHIP Waiting Period for Eligible Applicants
Ontario removed the OHIP waiting period. If your immigration status and residency meet OHIP requirements, coverage can begin immediately after approval. A study permit alone generally does not establish eligibility, so confirm your category with ServiceOntario.
How to Apply for OHIP
Apply in person at a ServiceOntario location. Bring your proof of identity (passport), proof of Ontario residency (lease or utility bill), and your immigration document (PR card, work permit, or study permit). You will receive a temporary paper card immediately and a physical green card by mail within 4 to 6 weeks.
If you are not OHIP-eligible, arrange school or private health coverage before you need care. Compare the policy’s exclusions, start date, emergency coverage, prescriptions and deductibles rather than relying on a quoted price that may be outdated.
British Columbia. BC Services Card
Waiting Period: 3 Months
BC has a 3-month waiting period for Medical Services Plan (MSP) coverage. Register for MSP online at hibc.gov.bc.ca as soon as you arrive. Your BC Services Card serves as both your health card and provincial photo ID.
How to Apply in BC
Apply online at the Health Insurance BC website or visit an ICBC driver licensing office. You will need your passport, BC address proof, and immigration documents. Enrolment is free. There are no monthly premiums for MSP as of 2020.
Alberta. AHCIP (Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan)
Waiting Period: None
Alberta has no waiting period for health coverage. You are eligible for Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) coverage on your first day of establishing Alberta residency. Apply online at alberta.ca or by phone at 780-427-1432.
How to Apply in Alberta
Apply online through the MyAlberta account portal or call Alberta Health. You will need your passport, Alberta address, and immigration documents. Coverage begins immediately upon approval and your Alberta Health card arrives by mail within 2 to 3 weeks.
Quebec. RAMQ (Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec)
Waiting Period: 3 Months
Quebec has a 3-month waiting period for RAMQ coverage. Additionally, Quebec has its own mandatory prescription drug insurance plan. You must enroll in either the RAMQ drug plan or a private group plan.
How to Apply in Quebec
Apply online at ramq.gouv.qc.ca or visit a RAMQ office in person. You will need your passport, proof of Quebec address, and immigration documents. Note that Quebec has its own immigration system and some status categories are treated differently than in other provinces.
Other Provinces and Territories
Manitoba
Manitoba Health Insurance. No waiting period for permanent residents. Apply at manitoba.ca/health. Temporary workers may face a 3-month wait depending on permit type.
Saskatchewan
Saskatchewan Health Authority. No waiting period for most newcomers. Apply online at ehealthsask.ca immediately upon arrival.
Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, PEI, Newfoundland
All Atlantic provinces have waiting periods ranging from 3 months (Nova Scotia, New Brunswick) to immediate coverage (PEI for permanent residents). Check your specific province's health authority website for current rules.
What Health Insurance Covers in Canada
Canadian provincial health insurance covers medically necessary doctor visits, hospital stays, emergency care, and most specialist appointments. It does NOT cover dental care, prescription medications, vision care, ambulance services, or physiotherapy. Many employers offer supplemental benefits plans that cover these extras. Ask your employer about benefits on your first day.
Written and reviewed by the GuideCAN Editorial Team
Editorially reviewed against government health information. This article does not provide medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.
Official sources
Official rules, fees, deadlines and program availability can change. Confirm the current details before acting.