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- 21st Century offers three visitor to Canada insurance plan options: Basic, Standard, and Enhanced, each with different coverage levels for medical expenses, pre-existing conditions, and additional benefits
- 21st Century Visitor to Canada Insurance offers coverage for up to 730 days, making it one of the longest available options
- The policy offers a monthly payment plan that requires only a two-month deposit and a $50 fee, ideal for managing the costs of long-term coverage
- 21st Century allows refunds for early returns
21st Century Visitor to Canada Insurance is a popular insurance plan for travellers that offers emergency medical coverage of up to $200,000 for up to 730 days, making it among the longest coverage durations available in Canada. Travellers can choose from three plans: Basic, Standard, and Enhanced, depending on their medical needs and budget.
The Standard and Enhanced plans of the 21st Century travel medical insurance Canada also offer coverage for dental emergencies and accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D), making them great for those seeking comprehensive coverage.
21st Century visitor to Canada insurance at a glance: Coverage, duration, eligibility
| Feature | Details |
| Ideal for | Long-stay visitors who need emergency medical coverage and prefer monthly payments. |
| Plan options | Basic, Standard, and Enhanced |
| Coverage amount | Up to $200,000 |
| Pre-existing conditions | Covered under Enhanced plan (subject to the policy’s stability period and age/medical questionnaire requirements) |
| Age Eligibility | Basic Plan: Ages 0 (30 days) and older (no maximum age limit)
Standard and Enhanced Plans: Ages 0 (30 days) to 85 years |
| Waiting period | Age 85 and under:
Over age 85:
|
| Monthly payment option | Available (For coverage plans $100,000 and up with at least 1 year of coverage) |
| Maximum policy duration | Up to 730 days |
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21st Century visitor to Canada insurance: Key features and plans
21st Century’s visitor insurance offers flexible and long-term emergency medical coverage for travellers visiting Canada. The plan provides up to $200,000 in coverage with monthly payment options for easier budgeting. Furthermore, 21st Century offers three plan options: Basic, Standard, and Enhanced, allowing travellers to select the level of coverage that best matches their health needs, budget, and travel requirements.
Additionally, it features flexible deductibles ranging from $0 to $10,000. With coverage for up to 730 days, it is among the longest coverage options available. The Enhanced plan also offers a 180-day stability period for pre-existing medical condition coverage, making it great for visitors.
Here’s a rundown of the Basic, Standard, and Enhanced plans under the 21st Century visitor to Canada insurance:
| Feature | Basic Plan | Standard Plan | Enhanced Plan |
| Eligible ages | No age limit | 0–85 years | 0–85 years |
| Pre-existing Condition coverage | Not covered | Not covered if the condition existed in the previous 180 days | Covered if stable for 180 days |
| Medical questionnaire | Not required | Not required | Required for ages 60–85 |
| Coverage Limits | Up to $200,000 | Up to $200,000 | Up to $200,000 |
| Deductibles | $0–$10,000 | $0–$10,000 plus disappearing deductible option | $0–$10,000 plus disappearing deductible option |
| Dental Coverage | Not included | Up to $4,000 for accidental dental, plus $500 for emergency dental pain | Up to $4,000 for accidental dental, plus $500 for emergency dental pain |
| Prescription Medication | Up to $500 (30-day supply) | Up to $1,500 (30-day supply) | Up to $1,500 (30-day supply) |
| Accidental Death and Dismemberment (AD&D) coverage | Not included | $50,000 included | $50,000 included |
| Extra Injury Coverage | Not included | Additional $50,000 with $100,000 coverage option | Additional $50,000 with $100,000 coverage option |
| Follow-up treatment | One follow-up visit per event | Unlimited until the emergency ends | Unlimited until the emergency ends |
Advisor insight: The Enhanced plan is usually the strongest option for seniors with stable medical conditions since it balances emergency coverage with pre-existing condition protection. For example, if a 72-year-old parent visiting Canada has controlled high blood pressure or diabetes that has remained stable for at least 180 days, the Enhanced plan can help cover emergency medical expenses related to those conditions during their stay.
How much does 21st Century visitor health insurance cost?
The cost of a visitor to Canada health insurance policy from 21st Century ranges from $73.20 to $726.60, depending on age, coverage amount, duration, and health status.
Here are the premium costs of 21st Century visitor health insurance based on an individual’s age and insurance plan:
Sample 21st Century visitor to Canada insurance cost
| Age | Basic Plan | Standard Plan | Enhanced Plan |
| 25 years | $73.20 | $107.10 | $113.10 |
| 35 years | $87.60 | $112.20 | $120.00 |
| 45 years | $106.50 | $139.50 | $146.70 |
| 55 years | $114.00 | $144.00 | $155.40 |
| 65 years | $148.50 | $217.20 | $254.40 |
| 75 years | $275.10 | $399.00 | $469.50 |
| 85 years | $421.20 | $579.60 | $726.60 |
*Premium cost for $100,000 in coverage under a visitor to Canada insurance plan for 30 days
How to reduce the cost of 21st Century visitor health insurance?
To reduce your 21st Century Visitor to Canada Insurance premium costs, you can use three primary methods:
- Apply as a family: qualify for a premium reduction when applying as a family or travel group.
- Travel Companion Savings: a premium reduction of 5% applies to each traveller purchasing the coverage and travelling together
- Select a higher deductible or a disappearing deductible: choose a higher deductible to lower your premium by up to 40%.
A deductible is the amount you pay out of pocket toward eligible medical expenses before your insurance starts covering costs. As a rule of thumb, a higher deductible results in lower premiums.
See how your 21st Century Visitor to Canada insurance premiums change with different deductible amounts:
| Deductible Amount | Premium Reduction |
| $100 | 5% |
| $250 | 10% |
| $500 | 15% |
| $1,000 | 20% |
| $5,000 | 35% |
| $10,000 | 40% |
Additionally, the Standard and Enhanced plans also support disappearing deductible options.
Disappearing deductible
The disappearing deductible is a special deductible option (available on the Standard and Enhanced plans) when purchasing $25,000, $50,000, or $100,000 in coverage. It applies separately to each sickness-related claim and can provide significant savings for larger medical emergencies.
Here’s how it works:
- A $2,500 deductible applies to sickness-related claims when eligible expenses are $2,500 or less
- If eligible sickness-related expenses exceed $2,500, the deductible is completely waived
- Coverage is then paid from the first dollar of eligible expenses
- For injury-related claims, the deductible is automatically waived
You also get a reduction on your premiums when you select a disappearing deductible.
See how your 21st Century Visitor to Canada insurance premiums change with different disappearing deductible amounts:
| Deductible Option | Premium Reduction | Age Eligibility | Availability |
| $2,500 Disappearing Deductible | 30% | Up to age 85 | Standard & Enhanced Plans with $25,000 coverage |
| $2,500 Disappearing Deductible | 25% | Up to age 85 | Standard & Enhanced Plans with $50,000 coverage |
| $2,500 Disappearing Deductible | 20% | Up to age 85 | Standard & Enhanced Plans with $100,000 coverage |
Advisor insight: The disappearing deductible can be a valuable feature for visitors who want lower premiums without sacrificing protection against major medical expenses. While you pay for smaller claims, larger amounts automatically receive full coverage from the first dollar once expenses exceed $2,500.
Who is eligible for 21st Century visitor health insurance?
Any non-resident in Canada meeting 21st Century’s medical eligibility criteria and not covered by a provincial health care plan is eligible for the visitor to Canada insurance plan. This includes tourists, parents visiting on a Super Visa, international students, work permit holders, new immigrants, and returning Canadians who are not yet eligible for Canada’s provincial health care.
However, you may not be eligible for the 21st Century health insurance for visitors to Canada under the following circumstances:
- Travelling to Canada against a physician’s advice
- Diagnosed with a terminal illness with a life expectancy of less than two years
- Diagnosed with or treated for pancreatic, lung, brain, or liver cancer within the last 2 years
- Diagnosed with congestive heart failure or metastatic cancer at any time
- Having had or awaiting an organ or bone marrow transplant (excluding corneal transplant)
- Used or been prescribed home oxygen within the last 12 months
- Reside in a nursing home or long-term care facility, or require kidney dialysis
Does the 21st Century visitor to Canada insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Yes, the 21st Century visitor to Canada insurance covers stable pre-existing conditions under the Enhanced plan, as part of the comprehensive emergency medical benefits.
Here’s what a stable pre-existing condition means:
- Any sickness, illness, disease, symptom, or injury that existed before your policy started
- Any condition for which medication was taken, prescribed, or received within the last 180 days. This includes “as needed” medications
- Any condition that required medical treatment, consultations, or monitoring before coverage began
- The condition is assessed based on the 180 days before your policy’s effective date
What are the pros and cons of 21st Century visitor health insurance policy?
21st Century’s visitor health insurance stands out for its flexible plans, up to $200,000 in emergency medical coverage, and monthly payment options. However, there are certain drawbacks, such as the higher premiums for seniors.
Here’s a quick overview of the pros and cons of the 21st Century visitor to Canada health policy:
Pros of 21st Century visitor to Canada insurance
- Long-term coverage with a two-year plan
- Offers monthly premium payment and family plan options
- Coverage available for up to 730 days, ideal for Super Visa applicants and long-term visitors
- Flexible deductible options ranging from $0 to $10,000
- Disappearing deductible on Standard and Enhanced is a unique feature
- Travel companion mobile app (TravelAid) that provides GPS-enabled medical and claims assistance
Cons of 21st Century visitor to Canada insurance
- Travellers aged 86 and older cannot purchase the Enhanced Plan, limiting access to pre-existing condition coverage.
- The two-month deposit becomes non-refundable after arrival in Canada, even if coverage is cancelled early.
- Maximum coverage is capped at $200,000, which is lower than that of many competing visitor insurance providers.
Can I pay monthly for my 21st Century medical insurance for visitors?
Yes, you can opt for a monthly payment plan when purchasing 21st Century medical insurance for visitors to Canada. To qualify, the policy must provide at least $100,000 in coverage and have a minimum term of one year, although applicants can choose a two-year policy option if desired.
At the time of application, only a two-month premium deposit is required, with the third premium payment due when coverage is activated. In addition, a $50 policy fee applies as well. The deposit is usually non-refundable, with certain exceptions (such as visa application denial or withdrawal before activation).
For example, a couple applying for a Canadian Super Visa may choose 21st Century’s monthly payment plan with $100,000 in coverage for 365 days instead of paying the full premium upfront. They would only need to pay a two-month deposit and a $50 policy fee when submitting their visa application.
Are there any exclusions or limitations to the 21st Century visitor health insurance in Canada?
Yes, while 21st Century visitor insurance to Canada offers comprehensive coverage, there are limitations related to high-risk sports, waiting periods, and self-inflicted injuries.
Here’s a list of the major 21st Century visitor insurance exclusions and limitations:
- Illness during the waiting period
- Known medical treatment before travel
- Unapproved cardiac procedures
- Self-inflicted injuries
- Alcohol or drug-related conditions
- High-risk sports and activities
- Pregnancy-related expenses
- Ongoing treatment from before coverage
- Medical exams for immigration or visa purposes
- Ongoing treatment after the emergency ends
Does 21st Century allow extensions to its visitor health insurance policy?
Yes, you can obtain additional coverage if your stay in Canada is longer than originally planned, but this is typically done by purchasing a new 21st Century Visitors Insurance policy. If you are thinking about extending your coverage, you must purchase a new policy before your current coverage expires.
To avoid a gap in coverage, the new policy must be arranged before your current policy expires. Each new policy is treated as a separate contract with its own effective date and terms.
Additionally, here is when your 21st Century visitor to Canada insurance will be automatically extended:
- Coverage is automatically extended for up to 72 hours if your return flight or common carrier is delayed
- If you are hospitalized on the policy expiry date, coverage may continue for up to 365 days during hospitalization
- Coverage may continue for up to 5 days after hospital discharge or until medically stable for travel
- If a medical emergency occurs within 5 days before policy expiry and prevents travel, coverage may be extended for up to 5 days
How to file a claim with 21st Century Visitor to Canada Insurance?
21st Century follows a documentation-based claims process that requires policyholders to complete the claim forms and provide supporting medical/travel documents within the specified timelines. Claims should be submitted within 30 days of the medical expense, while proof of claim must be provided within 90 days of treatment or claim notification.
Here’s how you can file a 21st Century claim for visitors insurance:
Call the assistance centre immediately
Contact the assistance centre in Canada and the United States at 1-877-882-2957, and internationally at +1 (519) 251-7856. The service is available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Failure to do so may result in a 20% co-insurance penalty.
Gather required documents
Provide medical records and a physician’s diagnosis, proof of treatment expenses (including itemized bills and payment receipts), and travel documents such as your passport, visa, or airline ticket. Depending on your situation, additional supporting documents may also be required.
Meet claim deadlines
You will need to report the claim within 30 days of the incident and submit proof of claim within 90 days of treatment or occurrence.
Submit claims
You can submit claims online through the Travel Claims portal or use the TravelAid app to file claims or contact administrators.
21st Century visitor health insurance vs. other visitor insurance providers
Here’s a quick overview of the 21st Century visitor health insurance policy compared to similar policies offered by Manulife, TuGo, Allianz, and others:
| Provider | Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage | Monthly Payments | Maximum Coverage |
| 21st Century | Yes, if stable for 180 days (Enhanced Plan) | Yes | Up to $200,000 |
| TuGo | Yes, if stable (7–365 days depending on age and trip length) | No | Up to $500,000 |
| Allianz | Yes, if stable (90 days ≤59 years; 180 days ages 60–89) | No | Up to $500,000 |
| GMS | Yes, if stable for 180 days | No | Up to $150,000 |
| MSH International Discover Canada | Yes, if stable (90 days ≤70 years; 180 days ages 71–80) | Yes | Up to $1,000,000 |
| Destination Canada | Yes, if stable (90 days ≤59 years; 180 days ages 60–79) | Yes | Up to $300,000 |
| Travelance | Yes, if stable for 180 days (Premier Plan; Essential Plan excludes pre-existing conditions) | Yes | Up to $150,000 |
| Secure Travel | Yes, if stable (90 days ≤69 years; 180 days ages 70–84) | Yes | Up to $1,000,000 |
For a comprehensive review and comparison, head over to our list of the best medical Insurance for Visitors to Canada (2026)
How to purchase the 21st Century visitor health insurance?
PolicyAdvisor’s licensed advisors help travellers find the right 21st Century Visitor to Canada Insurance plan by comparing coverage options and recommending options based on medical needs, travel duration, and budget.
Our advisors can guide you through the different plans and explain important details such as deductibles, exclusions, and policy limits. Whether you’re looking for affordable visitor insurance or coverage that meets Super Visa requirements, our team can help you select the coverage that best fits your situation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my 21st Century visitor insurance policy if I decide to stay in Canada longer?
Yes, you can apply for a new plan that extends your 21st Century Visitor to Canada Insurance policy if your stay in Canada is longer than originally planned.
Who is eligible for 21st Century visitor insurance?
21st Century visitor insurance is available to visitors, tourists, Super Visa applicants, immigrants, and returning Canadians travelling to or staying in Canada. For this, the plans need to be a minimum of $100,000 and for one year.
What is the difference between the Enhanced, Standard, and Basic plans?
The Enhanced plan offers the highest level of coverage, including support for stable pre-existing conditions. Meanwhile, the Standard plan offers balanced coverage at a moderate price. The Basic is the most affordable plan with limited benefits and fewer add-ons.
Can I get a refund if I return home early?
Yes, 21st Century visitor to Canada insurance may provide partial refunds for unused coverage if you return home earlier than planned, subject to policy terms.
Do I need to contact 21st Century before medical treatment?
Yes. Policyholders are usually required to contact the emergency assistance provider before receiving treatment, except in life-threatening emergencies. In circumstances where you are unable to contact the assistance centre, you must have someone call on your behalf within 24 hours.
Which 21st Century plan is best for seniors visiting Canada?
The Enhanced plan is generally the best option for seniors since it offers broader emergency medical coverage and supports stable pre-existing conditions.
Is the 21st Century visitor medical insurance Basic plan sufficient for visitors to Canada?
The Basic plan is usually suitable for healthy travellers looking for affordable emergency medical coverage. However, it has limited benefits compared to the Standard and Enhanced plans.
Is 21st Century good for parents visiting Canada?
Yes. 21st Century visitor to Canada insurance is a popular visitors insurance for seniors in Canada, for parents and grandparents visiting Canada. It offers Super Visa-compatible plans, monthly payment options, and long-term coverage for visitors.
What are the benefits of purchasing a visitor health insurance policy before arriving in Canada?
Purchasing a visitor health insurance policy before arriving in Canada offers several benefits, including immediate coverage upon entry, protection against unexpected medical emergencies, and peace of mind during travel.
How can I lower premiums for 21st Century visitor to Canada insurance?
The best way to lower premiums for 21st Century visitor to Canada insurance is to choose a higher deductible. A higher deductible lowers your costs, making it more affordable. Additionally, you can get a family or group rate when applying for two or more people.
What is the waiting period for the 21st Century visitor insurance?
A waiting period applies if you purchase the policy after arriving in Canada or fail to notify 21st Century of your actual arrival date. The visitors to Canada insurance waiting period is 72 hours if coverage is purchased within 30 days of arrival and 7 days if purchased after 30 days. A 7-day waiting period may also apply when upgrading coverage, lowering deductibles, or switching to a plan that includes stable pre-existing condition coverage without a gap between policies.
Is 21st Century suitable for the Super Visa?
Yes, all three plans are eligible for the Super Visa when the coverage amount is $100,000 and above with a minimum duration of one year. The ability to extend to two years alongside the monthly payment plans makes it ideal for parents and grandparents.
21st Century Visitor to Canada Insurance is a flexible travel medical insurance option designed for visitors. With up to $200,000 in coverage for up to 730 days, it is a comprehensive plan for the long term. This review goes through different aspects of the policy in detail.
