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- Tourists in Canada should buy health insurance as they are not covered by the country's free public healthcare system
- Coverage for tourists include visitors to Canada insurance and Super Visa insurance
- Without travel medical insurance in Canada, you can face significant financial burden from medical costs
- Having visitors health insurance ensures easy access to necessary medical care, allowing tourists to enjoy their visit without worrying about unexpected medical expenses
- The average cost of tourist health insurance typically ranges from $50 to $400 per month, depending on factors such as age, duration of stay, and the level of coverage chosen
- Types of emergency medical insurance for tourists
- How much does a hospital visit cost for visitors in Canada?
- Why is health insurance essential for visitors in Canada?
- How much does visitor health insurance cost in Canada?
- What factors impact the cost of health insurance for visitors in Canada?
- What is covered and not covered by medical insurance in Canada?
- How to file a claim for tourist health insurance in Canada?
- What are the best tourist health insurance in Canada?
- How to choose the best tourist health insurance policy in Canada?
- Frequently asked questions
Tourists planning to visit Canada can easily purchase visitors health insurance that covers emergency medical services such as hospital visits, ambulance transportation, diagnostic scans, and more. According to reports from THIA, over 70% of visitors to Canada purchase some form of emergency medical insurance before traveling.
Since Canada’s provincial healthcare does not cover tourists from their first day of arrival, it is recommended to buy a visitor insurance policy.
In this blog, we will explore visitor coverage options available to tourists and how to choose the right coverage to ensure you’re protected during your visit. Whether staying for a few days or several months, understanding tourist health insurance options can help you enjoy your trip with peace of mind.
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What are the types of tourist health insurance plans available in Canada?
In Canada, there are two main types of tourist health insurance: Visitors to Canada insurance, which is available for all non-residents, and Super Visa insurance, specifically designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
Both options provide coverage for medical emergencies, but Super Visa Insurance meets the requirements of the Super Visa program, offering extended coverage for longer stays. Here’s a breakdown of the different types:
1. Visitors to Canada insurance
Visitors to Canada insurance is a travel medical insurance designed specifically for non-residents visiting Canada, to provide coverage in case of any medical emergencies.
It is an essential type of coverage for visitors on a visit visa, international students, work permit holders, new immigrants on PR, and returning Canadians who are not yet eligible for Canada’s provincial healthcare.
2. Super Visa insurance
This travel insurance for Canada visitors is designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents who are applying for a Super Visa. Super Visa insurance must be purchased for at least one year with a minimum coverage amount of $100,000.
Is health insurance mandatory for tourists?
Health insurance is not legally mandatory for tourists in Canada, but it is strongly recommended. Having visitor health insurance for your Canada trip can keep you protected against financial constraints, guaranteeing access to quality medical care as non-residents cannot avail public healthcare. Check out the reasons in detail:
- Visa requirements: Super visa insurance is a requirement by the Canadian government as a part of their visa application process
- No public healthcare coverage: Tourists are not covered by Canada’s publicly funded healthcare system, making private insurance necessary
- Financial protection: Accidents or sudden illnesses can happen at any time, and insurance provides financial protection
- Access to quality medical care: With insurance, tourists can access a wider range of medical services and facilities, ensuring they receive proper care if needed
What happens if a tourist gets sick in Canada?
If a tourist gets sick in Canada, the Canadian government will not cover any expenses for hospitalization, medication, or other medical services. Tourists in Canada who do not have visitor coverage will be liable to pay any medical expenses out of their own pockets. To avoid this situation, tourists can get Visitors to Canada insurance before their arrival.
Can I see a doctor in Canada as a tourist?
Yes, you can see a doctor in Canada as a tourist, but you will pay out-of-pocket for all services unless you have visitor health insurance. Given the costs involved, visitor health insurance is highly recommended for financial protection.
What is covered and not covered by tourist medical insurance in Canada?
Tourist medical insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies such as physician consultations, prescription drug coverage, diagnostic tests, paramedical services, and more.
However, this insurance policy does not cover any unstable pre-existing condition, non-emergency procedures, pregnancy and maternity care, mental health services, etc. Here is a detailed outline of the coverage options:
Tourist medical insurance inclusions and exclusions
| Tourist medical insurance coverage inclusions | Tourist medical insurance coverage exclusions |
| Physician consultations | Any unstable pre-existing condition |
| Prescription drug coverage | Non-emergency procedures such as elective procedures and planned surgeries |
| Pathological tests and diagnostic procedures | Pregnancy and maternity care-related emergencies |
| Emergency paramedical services | Mental health services such as counselling, therapy, and psychiatric care |
| Emergency dental care | Any injury or accident caused under the influence of drugs or alcohol |
| Accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) | Self-inflicted injuries resulting from attempted suicide or self-harm |
| Trip breaks and side trips | Any injury resulting from a state of war or terrorism |
| Childcare coverage for a dependent child | Injuries sustained while piloting an aircraft or other aviation-related accidents |
How much does a hospital visit cost for tourists in Canada?
For tourists visiting Canada, the cost of a hospital visit can be quite high. A doctor’s visit or walk-in clinic appointment can cost between $100 and $600, while a trip to the emergency room or hospitalization could reach up to $6,000 per day!
The following table is a comparison between what non-residents will pay while availing treatment in Canada:
Hospital charges for tourists in Canada
| Hospital Service | Cost for Non-Residents in Canada |
| Doctor’s appointments | $930 |
| Emergency visit | $930 |
| X-ray (including hospital visit fee) | $49 and up |
| MRI (plus hospital visit fee) | $2,030 |
| CT scan (plus hospital visit fee) | $2,130 |
| High-risk ultrasound (plus hospital visit fee) | $359 |
| Lab tests, each (plus hospital visit fee) | $360 |
| Ambulance charges | $240 |
| Rehabilitation & mobility appliances | $2-$240 |
| Ward room – Regular | $964 |
| Ward – Intensive care | $4,049 |
| Semi-private room | $1,184 |
| Private room | $1,224 |
*Charges as per a popular hospital in Ontario, Canada
How much does it cost a tourist to visit the ER in Canada?
The cost for a tourist to visit the ER in Canada typically ranges from $300 to $1,000, depending on the severity of the condition and the treatments required. Additional tests, specialist consultations, or hospital stays, can significantly increase the total cost. Without health insurance for visitors, tourists will have to pay these expenses out-of-pocket.
Is healthcare free for tourists in Canada?
No, healthcare is not free for tourists in Canada. Canada’s public healthcare system is reserved for citizens and permanent residents, so tourists must pay for any medical services they receive.
To avoid high out-of-pocket expenses, it’s strongly recommended that you purchase tourist medical coverage before arriving in Canada. This travel insurance in Canada helps cover expenses like doctor visits, hospital stays, and emergency medical treatments during their stay.
Cost of tourist health insurance in Canada
The average cost of visitor health insurance for travellers to Canada typically ranges from $50 to $400 per month, depending on factors such as age, duration of stay, and the level of coverage chosen.
For instance, younger travellers (under 40 years) may pay between $50 and $100 monthly, while those aged 70 years and older may see costs rise between $200 and $400 per month.
Cost of tourist health insurance in Canada
| Visitor’s age | Premiums without pre-existing condition coverage | Premiums with pre-existing condition coverage |
| 25 years | $72.30/mo. | $92.70/mo. |
| 35 years | $90.90/mo. | $100.20/mo. |
| 45 years | $101.70/mo. | $115.50/mo. |
| 55 years | $110.70/mo. | $129.60/mo. |
| 65 years | $133.20/mo. | $168.60/mo. |
| 75 years | $240.0/mo. | $328.80/mo. |
| 85 years | $405/mo. | $453.92/mo. |
*Cost of $100k in coverage for a visitor travelling to Canada for a 30-day period
What factors impact the cost of health insurance for tourists in Canada?
The cost of visitor health insurance in Canada depends on factors like age, duration or stay, pre-existing conditions, coverage type, deductibles, and some other factors explained below:
What happens if you don’t have a health card in Canada?
If you don’t have a health card in Canada, you won’t have access to the publicly funded healthcare system. This means you will need to bear the expense for any medical services, including doctor visits, hospital stays, and other types of emergency treatments. Without a health card, you may face significant costs for healthcare, as you won’t be eligible for free healthcare facilities.
What are the best tourist health insurance providers in Canada?
When visiting Canada, having reliable health insurance is essential. Companies such as Manulife, Secure Travel, 21st Century, and GMS have different offerings that can be beneficial to a wide range of visitors. Here is a detailed breakdown:
- Allianz Global Assistance: Ideal for international students needing comprehensive coverage
- MSH International: Great for travelers planning longer side trips outside of Canada
- Secure Travel: Known for its affordability and budget-friendly plans
- 21st Century: Offers companion discounts for additional savings
- Travelance: Provides monthly payment plans, making it easier for long-term visitors
- Destination Canada: Flexible monthly plans for added convenience
- GMS: Offers great pricing with various deductible options
- Manulife: Offers comprehensive coverage for medical emergencies
- Tugo: Provides coverage for unstable pre-existing conditions
- Blue Cross: Includes a “trip break” option, allowing travelers to return to their home country temporarily without losing coverage
What are the steps to purchase tourist health insurance in Canada?
To purchase tourist health insurance in Canada, it’s best to buy coverage before arriving, ideally to start on your date of entry. Most travellers choose online providers for speed and convenience, though in-person options exist through licensed brokers. You’ll also need basic documents like your passport, travel dates, and health details.
- When to buy insurance: Buy your tourist health insurance before arriving in Canada. Most providers require coverage to begin on your arrival date, and purchasing early ensures eligibility and peace of mind
- Online vs. in-person purchases: Most visitors buy insurance online for convenience and faster approval. In-person purchases are possible through licensed brokers but may take longer and offer fewer options
- Documentation required: You’ll typically need your passport, travel dates, Canadian address (if available), and basic health information. For plans covering pre-existing conditions, a medical questionnaire may also be required
How to file a claim for tourist health insurance in Canada?
To file a claim for tourist health insurance in Canada,you can follow the below-mentioned steps:
- Start by reviewing your policy to understand the coverage and required documentation
- Contact your insurance provider as soon as possible after receiving medical treatment, and inform them of your situation
- Gather necessary documents, including the original invoices from the healthcare provider, receipts for any related expenses, and a completed claim form provided by your insurer
- Submit your travel medical insurance claim online, via email, or by mail, following the insurer’s guidelines
How to choose the best tourist health insurance policy in Canada?
When choosing the best visitor insurance for your stay in Canada, you can start by assessing your needs, comparing costs, and consulting an insurance broker.
- Assess your needs: Start by assessing your needs based on your length of stay, health status, and planned activities to determine the appropriate level of coverage
- Compare options: Next, compare cost and coverage options by reviewing what different policies offer, such as emergency medical services and hospitalization, and weigh deductibles and co-payments to ensure they align with your budget.
- Work with a broker: Doing all your insurance work by yourself can be tricky, leaving you prone to errors and rejections. This is where insurance brokers and experts like PolicyAdvisor come in! With the assistance of PolicyAdvisor, get the most affordable visitor medical insurance quotes in Canada when you’re visiting your children or flying to catch a glimpse of your loved ones.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get health insurance in Canada as a visitor?
Yes, you can get health insurance through private visitor insurance plans. These plans provide coverage for emergency medical expenses, hospital stays, and other unexpected healthcare needs. It’s essential to purchase a plan that fits your specific needs and review the coverage details, including exclusions and limits, to ensure adequate protection during your stay in Canada.
Can I enter Canada without health insurance?
Yes, you can enter Canada without health insurance since it is not mandatory. However, it is highly recommended to have visitors medical insurance before your visit. Without health insurance, you would be responsible for paying out-of-pocket for any medical services, which can quickly add up to thousands of dollars.
Can non-residents get health insurance in Canada?
Yes, non-residents can get tourist health insurance in Canada from insurance providers such as Manulife, Secure Travel, 21st Century, etc. These providers offer tailored plans that include coverage for medical emergencies, hospital stays, doctor visits, and additional healthcare services. Visitor medical insurance plans ensure that non-residents are financially protected in case of illness or injury while in Canada.
How much medical cover do I need for visiting Canada?
When visiting Canada, it’s recommended to have visitors’ health insurance with a minimum coverage of $100,000 to cover emergency medical expenses, such as hospital stays and emergency room visits.
Can a tourist get medical treatment in Canada?
Yes, tourists can receive medical treatment in Canada, but it is not free. Foreigners must pay for all medical services, including doctor consultations, emergency room visits, and hospital stays. These expenses can add up to thousands of dollars, which can be a significant financial burden, especially in a foreign country.
Can I get visitor insurance for pre-existing conditions in Canada?
Yes, insurance providers like Tugo and Manulife offer coverage for stable pre-existing conditions, such as controlled diabetes, if stable for 90–180 days. You will be required to complete a medical questionnaire to confirm your eligibility.
Tourists visiting Canada are not covered by provincial healthcare. Visitors including short-term tourists or long-term visitors such as parents and grandparents on super visas should get visitor’s insurance for any medical emergencies while they are in Canada. Health insurance for visitors to Canada provides financial protection and peace of mind, ensuring tourists can access necessary medical care without exorbitant expenses.
Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada. Travel Health Insurance Association. Accessed June 5, 2025.
