Canada is known for its universal healthcare system, which is funded through taxes. This means that Canadian citizens, permanent residents, and some temporary residents can access public healthcare services.
But what does this mean for immigrants in 2025? If you’re planning to move to Canada or have recently arrived, it’s important to understand what healthcare coverage you can expect. Let’s break it down.
Public Healthcare for Immigrants
As a new immigrant in Canada, you may be eligible for public healthcare, but the process and coverage vary depending on your province or territory. Each region in Canada manages its own healthcare plan, and services can differ slightly across the country. Typically, you will need to apply for a health card in the province or territory where you settle.
Once you’re registered in your province’s healthcare system, you will receive a health card. This card gives you access to most healthcare services without having to pay out of pocket.
What’s Covered Under Public Healthcare?
In general, public healthcare in Canada covers most essential medical services. This includes:
- Doctor visits: When you need basic medical care, you can visit a family doctor or a walk-in clinic.
- Emergency care: If you’re in an emergency situation, you can visit a hospital, and you won’t be charged for the services you receive, even if you don’t have a health card (though some restrictions may apply depending on your status).
- Hospital stays and surgeries: If you’re admitted to a hospital, the costs are typically covered under public health insurance.
However, there are certain things that public health insurance doesn’t cover, which we’ll discuss in the next section.
Waiting Period for Coverage
When you arrive in Canada, there may be a waiting period before your public health insurance kicks in. This waiting period can range from a few weeks to a few months, depending on your province or territory. In some areas, this period can last up to 3 months.
During this waiting period, you will need private health insurance to cover your healthcare needs. Some provinces provide temporary coverage to immigrants, but it’s always a good idea to arrange private insurance as a backup.
What’s Not Covered?
While Canadian public health insurance covers a lot of basic healthcare needs, there are services that it doesn’t pay for:
- Prescription medications: Public healthcare doesn’t usually cover the cost of medications, unless you’re in a hospital. However, you may be eligible for provincial medication programs, or your employer may offer private insurance that covers some medication costs.
- Dental care: Routine dental visits and procedures like fillings, cleanings, and root canals aren’t covered under public health insurance. You may need to get private insurance or pay out of pocket for dental services.
- Vision care: Eye exams and prescription glasses aren’t covered by public healthcare for most people. Again, private insurance can help with these costs.
- Chiropractic, physiotherapy, and other specialized services: Services like chiropractic care or physiotherapy aren’t covered by public health insurance unless they’re provided in certain hospital settings.
Family Doctors and Clinics
Most Canadians have a family doctor who provides primary care. If you’re new to Canada, it might take time to find a family doctor. It’s important to register with a doctor who can guide you on general health and refer you to specialists if necessary.
In addition to family doctors, you can also visit walk-in clinics when you need care that isn’t an emergency but requires quick attention. These clinics generally don’t require appointments and can treat a range of non-emergency issues.
Private Health Insurance
Given that public healthcare doesn’t cover everything, many Canadians opt for private health insurance to fill in the gaps. If your employer offers private insurance, it can cover prescription medications, dental care, vision care, and other services not covered by the public system. Some provinces also offer supplementary health plans for those with low income.
If you don’t have private insurance and are concerned about the costs of these services, consider purchasing a personal health plan.
Special Considerations for Immigrants
As an immigrant, you may be eligible for public healthcare once you meet residency requirements. However, it’s important to check with your provincial health ministry to find out exactly when you’ll be covered and what steps you need to take.
Some provinces have special programs to help immigrants navigate their healthcare needs, especially if you’re a refugee or temporary resident. For example, you might be able to access emergency medical care even if you’re in the middle of the waiting period for full healthcare coverage.
Final Words
Canada’s healthcare system provides excellent coverage for immigrants, ensuring you have access to essential services like doctor visits, emergency care, and hospital stays. While there are some gaps, such as prescription medications and dental care, private insurance can help cover these costs. It’s crucial to familiarize yourself with your province’s healthcare system, the coverage available to you, and what additional insurance you might need.
With the right planning, you can take full advantage of Canada’s healthcare offerings and ensure that you and your family stay healthy during your transition to life in Canada.