Before moving to Canada
- Learn about Medicare eligibility and enrolment rules in the Province/Territory you will move to. If you are moving to a Province or Territory with a Medicare waiting period, or if due to your immigration status or short duration of stay you won’t be eligible for Medicare, then…
- After researching your options, buy interim medical insurance and let family or close friends know of your insurance details.
- Bring a copy of your medical records with you to Canada.
After arrival in Canada
- Apply for Medicare in your new home Province/Territory as soon as possible.
- Until you receive your government health coverage, carry your interim insurance ID card, and a photocopy of your Canadian immigration document to prove your resident status.
- Learn about extended health and dental plans available to cover the types of healthcare expenses that your provincial plan does not cover.
- Do not leave Canada without buying travel medical insurance because Medicare offers negligible coverage outside Canada!
- If you will have extended absences outside your home Province/Territory, confirm if you meet minimum eligibility requirements for Medicare. If extended absences make you ineligible for Medicare you will want to consider buying an international (private) health plan.
- Ensure that your visiting family and friends have emergency medical coverage for Canada!