A Newcomer’s Guide to Canadian Healthcare: What You Need to Know
Canada’s publicly funded healthcare system is one of the most recognized in the world — but for newcomers, navigating how it works can feel overwhelming. Whether you’re arriving as a permanent resident, temporary foreign worker, student, or sponsored family member, it’s important to understand how to access medical care, what’s covered, and how to stay protected during your transition.
This guide outlines everything you need to know about healthcare in Canada as a newcomer — so you can feel informed, safe, and supported from day one.
How Does Canadian Healthcare Work?
Canada’s healthcare system is publicly funded and provincially managed, which means each province or territory runs its own health insurance plan. Most essential medical services — like doctor visits, hospital stays, and medical testing — are covered by the government at no cost to residents.
However, the rules for coverage — including who qualifies and when — can vary widely depending on where you live.
Are Newcomers Covered Automatically?
Not always. Your eligibility depends on your immigration status and province of residence:
Permanent Residents are eligible for public health insurance, though many provinces have a 3-month waiting period after arrival.
Temporary foreign workers may qualify, depending on the type and length of their work permit.
International students are typically required to purchase private health insurance or are enrolled in a school-provided plan.
Sponsored spouses and family members may also face a waiting period before public coverage begins.
Tip: During the waiting period (if applicable), you should secure private health insurance to avoid paying out-of-pocket for medical expenses.
What’s Covered by Public Healthcare?
Most provincial plans cover:
Visits to general practitioners (family doctors)
Hospital care and emergency services
Diagnostic testing (e.g., blood tests, X-rays)
Specialist referrals (with a doctor’s recommendation)
Limited mental health and addiction services
Not typically covered:
Prescription medication (unless you qualify for a provincial drug plan)
Dental care and eye exams
Ambulance services (may include partial coverage)
Physiotherapy and other paramedical services
Travel insurance or out-of-country care
How to Apply for a Health Card
To access healthcare, you’ll need to register for your province’s health plan and obtain a health card. This card must be shown when visiting a clinic, hospital, or specialist.
Required documents often include:
Confirmation of Permanent Residence or work/study permit
Passport or valid ID
Proof of residence (e.g., lease, utility bill)
By Province:
Ontario (OHIP): 3-month wait period (exceptions apply)
British Columbia (MSP): 3-month wait period
Alberta: No waiting period — coverage begins upon arrival
Nova Scotia: No wait for permanent residents; temporary residents must check eligibility
Quebec: Varies based on status and permits
Private Health Insurance: Do You Need It?
Private health insurance is essential if:
You’re in the waiting period for public coverage
You’re a student, visitor, or temporary resident not yet eligible for a provincial plan
You want coverage for prescriptions, dental, vision, or specialist services
Many newcomers purchase temporary insurance upon arrival, then switch to public coverage once eligible.
HR Immigration Tip: We recommend arranging health insurance before arriving in Canada, especially if you’re traveling with children or dependents.
How to Find a Family Doctor
Finding a family doctor (or general practitioner) should be one of your first steps. This doctor will manage your ongoing care and refer you to specialists if needed.
To find one:
Register with your province’s healthcare waitlist (available in many provinces)
Ask your local community health centre or walk-in clinic
Check online databases (e.g., Medimap, College of Physicians and Surgeons in your province)
Until you find one, you can visit walk-in clinics, though wait times may vary.
What If You Need Emergency Care?
In case of emergency, dial 911 or go directly to the nearest hospital emergency room. Emergency care is available to everyone in Canada — even those without health insurance — but you may receive a bill if you’re not yet covered.
Mental Health Resources for Newcomers
Canada offers growing support for mental health, including services tailored to immigrants:
Free or low-cost counseling through community health centres
Multilingual helplines and crisis centres
Student wellness programs for international students
Employer assistance programs (EAP) for workers