Healthcare For Newcomers is here to guide you through your journey and ensure you receive the care and protection you deserve.
Moving to a new country comes with a long list of things to figure out, and healthcare is usually near the top.
Canada’s healthcare system is known for being high‑quality and publicly funded, but newcomers often have questions about eligibility, wait times, and how actually to access services.
This guide breaks everything down in a simple, newcomer‑friendly way so you can feel confident navigating healthcare in Canada.
How the Canadian Healthcare System Works
Canada’s healthcare system is publicly funded, meaning the government covers most essential medical services. However, coverage varies across the country; each province and territory operates its own health insurance plan.
What’s generally covered
- Doctor visits
- Hospital care
- Diagnostic tests (X‑rays, ultrasounds, etc.)
- Emergency services
What’s usually not covered
- Dental care
- Prescription medications (outside hospitals)
- Vision care
- Physiotherapy
- Ambulance services (varies by province)
Because of these gaps, many newcomers choose to get private insurance for extra protection.
Provincial Health Coverage Eligibility (By Province)
Eligibility depends on where you live. Some provinces cover newcomers immediately, while others require a waiting period.
No Waiting Period
- Alberta
- Saskatchewan
- Nova Scotia
- Newfoundland and Labrador
- Prince Edward Island
Waiting Period (Usually 2–3 Months)
- Ontario (OHIP)
- British Columbia (MSP)
- Quebec (RAMQ)
- Manitoba
- New Brunswick
Territories
- Yukon, Nunavut, and the Northwest Territories each have their own rules, often tied to residency and work permits.
Tip: Apply for your provincial health card upon arrival, even if there’s a waiting period.
What to Do While Waiting for Coverage
If your province has a waiting period, you’ll need temporary private health insurance. This protects you from unexpected medical costs that can be costly without coverage.
Common options include:
- Visitor‑to‑Canada insurance
- Newcomer/immigrant health plans
- Employer‑provided benefits (if you start working quickly)
While planning your finances as a newcomer, you may find this helpful:
How to Find a Family Doctor in Canada
Finding a family doctor can take time, especially in larger cities. Here’s how to start:
- Register with your province’s doctor waitlist (e.g., Quebec’s GAMF, Ontario’s Health Care Connect)
- Ask local clinics if they’re accepting new patients
- Use community health centres
- Consider virtual care platforms for non‑urgent issues
A family doctor becomes your main point of contact for ongoing care, referrals, and medical history.
Walk‑In Clinics, Telehealth, and Emergency Care
Even without a family doctor, you can still access care.
Walk‑In Clinics: For minor illnesses, infections, or non‑emergency issues.
Most accept provincial health cards; some accept private insurance.
Telehealth: Every province offers free phone‑based medical advice.
Examples:
- Ontario: Telehealth Ontario
- Quebec: Info‑Santé 811
Emergency Rooms
For severe or life‑threatening issues such as:
- Chest pain
- Severe injuries
- Difficulty breathing
- Uncontrolled bleeding
Emergency care is always available, even if you don’t have a health card yet — but you may be billed if you’re not covered.
Private Insurance Options for Newcomers
Private insurance fills the gaps in provincial coverage. It’s beneficial for:
- Dental care
- Prescription drugs
- Vision care
- Physiotherapy
- Mental health services
You can get private insurance through:
- Employers
- Banks and insurance companies
- Newcomer‑specific plans
When budgeting for insurance, this guide can help you stay organized
Documents You’ll Need to Apply for Healthcare
When applying for your provincial health card, you’ll typically need:
- Passport
- Work permit, study permit, or PR confirmation
- Proof of address (lease, utility bill, etc.)
- Immigration documents
If you’re still getting your financial life set up in Canada, this resource is a great companion:
Tips for Newcomers Navigating the System
- Apply for your health card immediately
- Keep digital and physical copies of your documents
- Learn the difference between walk‑in, ER, and telehealth
- Ask for interpretation services if needed
- Keep a list of your medications and allergies
- Use government websites for accurate information
- Build a simple financial plan to prepare for unexpected medical costs
Frequently Asked Questions
Do newcomers get free healthcare in Canada?
Yes, once you’re eligible for provincial coverage. Some provinces cover you immediately; others have a waiting period.
Do international students get healthcare?
It depends on the province. Some offer coverage; others require private insurance.
How long does it take to get a health card?
Processing times vary, but most provinces issue cards within a few weeks.
Can I go to the ER without a health card?
Yes, but you may be billed if you’re not yet covered.
Canada’s healthcare system can feel overwhelming at first, but once you understand how provincial coverage works and what to do while waiting, it becomes much easier to manage.
With the correct information and a bit of preparation, newcomers can access high‑quality care and avoid unexpected medical costs.
If you’re building your life in Canada, strengthening your financial foundation is as crucial as understanding the healthcare system.
