Moving to Canada? Everything you need to know about Canada’s health care system

Cigna Healthcare
Published: May 26, 2023

Canada is an exciting country known for its multicultural society, breath-taking landscapes, and publicly-funded health care.

That said, moving to Canada can come with its fair share of challenges, such as navigating the country’s health care system, which can be daunting for many newcomers. To help you get to grips with how the system works, including how to apply for a health card and access urgent care, here’s the essential information you need:

Unpacking Canada’s free health care system

As a permanent resident or landed immigrant, you can apply to access publicly-funded Medicare health services. Through Medicare, basic medical services like doctor visits, hospital stays, and diagnostic tests are provided for free or at a fraction of the cost. However, because these services are primarily funded and delivered by each provincial government, the specifics of coverage and delivery may vary slightly from province to province. Therefore, you should check with the province of your intended residence, work, or study to determine available services.

Get a Free Quote!

In general, Medicare doesn’t cover services and items like dental care, vision care, and prescription drugs, and without suitable private health insurance, you may have to pay for them out of your pocket. So, stay informed about what’s covered and what isn’t, and consider your options carefully.

Transitioning to Canada: Applying for a health card

To access Medicare services in Canada, you’ll first need to apply for a Canadian health card. Applying for a health card, or provincial health card as it’s also known, is usually free. The application process differs depending on the province, but all require supporting documents, including proof of residency and immigration status and a government-issued ID. It’s worth keeping in mind that some provinces may have a waiting period of up to three months before you can receive care.

Once your application is verified, you can use your card to access medical care covered by the government. You’ll need to present your card whenever you visit a doctor or hospital to confirm your eligibility.

Finding a family doctor for you and your loved ones

Family doctors, or General Practitioners (GPs), provide essential primary health care services and serve as valuable guides through the Canadian health care system. They can help you understand your options for care, make informed decisions, and provide referrals to specialists when necessary. You can find a family doctor by registering with the provincial health care system, asking for recommendations from friends or colleagues, or using online resources such as the Canadian Association’s Doctor Finder tool.

Get a Free Quote!

Urgent care in Canada: How to get help when you need it

Canada offers free emergency medical treatment regardless of immigration status, and you don’t need a health card. However, going to the nearest hospital in case of an emergency is recommended, as some walk-in clinics may charge fees if you’re not a resident of that province or territory. If you can’t get to a hospital, dialing 911 will connect you with police, ambulance, and fire services, no matter where you are in the country. The cost of ambulance services in Canada is usually partially covered by each province, with patients responsible for a lower co-pay amount.

What makes a private health insurance plan a smart move

Private health insurance, held by about two-thirds of Canadians, can offer a wider range of services and benefits, shorter wait times, and a broader network of health care providers. Furthermore, it’s important to note that some provinces in Canada may only provide health coverage to their residents. This means you may not be covered if you require medical attention or have an accident outside your home region.

Although private health plans are often acquired as an employment benefit, it’s wise to be aware of their potential limitations and explore alternative coverage options.

Get a Free Quote!

Why choose an international plan from Cigna Healthcare?

An international health plan from Cigna Healthcare provides fast access to quality care whenever and wherever you need it – from 24/7 phone and online GP appointments and mental well-being support to hospital treatment, including cancer care. And because Cigna Healthcare understands that everyone’s needs are different, they offer a range of add-ons covering outpatient treatment, dental and vision care, and prescriptions to tailor your health plan so it’s right for you.

Whether you’re moving to Canada to work or live, a Cigna Healthcare plan ensures you have everything you need to stay healthy and happy – without worrying about unpredictable medical expenses.

Start building your plan today, Get a Free Quote!


Share this article
Share your voice
Did you find this article helpful?
Thank you for your feedback.
Subscribe to our newsletter
Did you find this article helpful?
Please provide a response
Thank you for your helpful feedback
Please contact us if you would like to share additional feedback, have a question, or would like Canadian immigration assistance.
  • Do you need Canadian immigration assistance? Contact the Contact Cohen Immigration Law firm by completing our form
  • Send us your feedback or your non-legal assistance questions by emailing us at media@canadavisa.com
Related articles
Canada ranked 4th best country in the world in 2024
A Canadian flag waving with a tree, and both modern and classical buildings in the background.
How does Canada compare to other top immigrant destinations?
A Canadian flag waving in the wind on a bright day.
Rural and Northern Immigration Pilot Program now closed
A lovely picture of a wheat field and silo as the sun sets in the background.
Canada ranks in top 10 countries for work-life balance
young woman relaxing by a lake in Canada's Rocky Mountains.
Top Stories
British Columbia and Manitoba hold immigration draws; Alberta provides processing updates
IRCC to grant work permits to Yukon nominee candidates
IRCC releases program updates regarding Intra-Company Transferees
Join our free newsletter. Get Canada's top immigration stories delivered to your inbox.
Subscribe
More in Work
IRCC releases program updates regarding Intra-Company Transferees
View of Lake Louise in Banff National Park.
IRCC reducing Spousal Open Work Permits by more than 100,000 over the next three years
Young couple working
IRCC announces tighter cap for study permits and changes to PGWP eligibility
Parliament Hill in Ottawa
Destination Canada holds virtual job fair for bilingual candidates
A person siting in the living room, preparing for a virtual interview online.
Link copied to clipboard