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Written By
Corinna Frattini
Jul 25, 2025
•Insurance
Yes, you do. If you’re moving to Canada and not immediately eligible for public healthcare, travel medical insurance is vital. Without it, a medical emergency could cost you thousands of dollars out of pocket. Here’s what you need to know before you arrive.
More than half of newcomers (54%) say financial stress is their top well-being challenge after arriving in Canada, according to a 2025 Securian Canada study. Travel medical insurance can help ease that stress by protecting you from emergency costs right from day one.
Canada has a universal healthcare system, but you must qualify for it. Most newcomers face a waiting period before they’re eligible for provincial or territorial coverage. During that time, you are responsible for 100% of your medical bills unless you have private insurance. Read more about how to get free healthcare in Canada.
The Government of Canada recommends that newcomers have at least $100,000 in travel insurance coverage for unforeseen accidents or emergencies. Yet despite this recommendation, 1 in 5 newcomers (20%) have no insurance at all, and 60% are underinsured, making them more financially vulnerable in an emergency.
Canadian Financial Tips Before You Move to Canada
In Canada, travel medical health insurance is often called ‘Visitors to Canada insurance’ (VTC). It refers to the same type of coverage.
You should buy Visitors to Canada (VTC) insurance if you’re:
VTC insurance typically covers you for up to 365 days and may be renewed depending on the provider.
Health care in Canada is expensive if you’re not covered. Here’s what you might pay:
Arriving with an action plan for your first weeks in Canada can save you time and money. The quicker you settle into your new environment the faster you’ll feel at home! In this webinar, Your First Weeks in Canada, we discuss the important things to do to manage your first weeks efficiently.
REGISTER FOR THE WEBINARCoverage varies, but most plans include:
Not all plans are equal. Here’s what to check before you buy:
It depends on the province. Some have mandatory waiting periods:
| PROVINCE | WAITING PERIOD FOR COVERAGE |
|---|---|
| Ontario | 3 months after arrival |
| British Columbia | Up to 3 months |
| Alberta | Coverage begins immediately (if eligible) |
| Manitoba | Up to 3 months |
Buy travel insurance that covers the full gap until your provincial plan starts.
No. Travel insurance typically covers:
Travel medical insurance, on the other hand, focuses on medical expenses. Some packages offer both, but check carefully.
It’s more affordable than you might expect. On average:
Prices vary based on age, health, and coverage amount.
Navigating insurance isn’t easy. One-third (33%) of newcomers say it’s difficult or expensive to get professional advice, and 42% worry about being misled. That’s why understanding your options before you arrive is so important.
Ideally, before you leave your home country. Many providers require you to purchase the plan before your arrival date for full coverage.
Yes, but many policies have a 48-hour waiting period if purchased after arrival, so it’s better to buy before you land.
Yes, many policies are flexible. You can:
Extend coverage if your provincial health care is delayed
Cancel early and receive a partial refund if your public insurance starts sooner (proof required).
You should get coverage for at least 3 months, or until you’re eligible for your provincial or territorial health plan. Some provinces (like BC or Ontario) have a mandatory 3-month waiting period.
You’ll be responsible for 100% of the medical costs. A hospital visit or ambulance ride can cost thousands of dollars, so insurance is strongly recommended.
Yes. All accompanying family members should be covered during the waiting period.
You can, but many international policies don’t meet Canadian standards. They may:
Exclude certain types of care;
Have low coverage caps;
Lack emergency repatriation;
Offer no local support in Canada.
When possible, choose a Canadian-based provider with plans designed for newcomers.
Whether you’re immigrating, working, studying, or visiting family, travel medical insurance protects your health and finances from day one.
✅ Don’t risk costly medical bills.
✅ Get covered before your flight.
✅ Compare plans and get a free quote now.
With 58% of underinsured newcomers reporting high financial stress, getting the right insurance before you arrive in Canada can give you peace of mind and protect your future.
👉Start your coverage today → get a travel medical insurance quote!
WRITTEN BY
Corinna Frattini
Senior Editor and Content Director, Prepare for Canada
Corinna researches and writes content to help newcomers make informed decisions about housing, employment, banking, and aspects of settling in Canada. With a background in human resources and leadership development, her articles focus on how newcomers can continue their careers in Canada. Her writing combines research, practical guidance, and clear language to support newcomers on their journey.
© Prepare for Canada 2025
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