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- Tourists are not covered under Canada’s public healthcare system, making visitor health insurance essential for medical emergencies
- Visitor insurance mainly covers unexpected medical costs like hospitalization, doctor visits, ambulance services, and emergency treatment during your stay in Canada
- Without travel medical insurance in Canada, you can face significant financial burden from medical costs
- The average cost of tourist health insurance typically ranges from $60 to $150 per month, depending on factors such as age, duration of stay, and the level of coverage chosen
Planning a trip to Canada in 2026? A common question many travellers ask is: “Is healthcare free for visitors?” While Canada is world-renowned for its universal public health system, this coverage is strictly reserved for citizens and residents.
Yes, tourists can buy medical insurance in Canada. Since public healthcare does not cover non-residents, buying visitor insurance is essential to avoid out-of-pocket costs. Tourists should buy emergency medical coverage before arrival to skip the 48–72 hour waiting periods.
This is especially mandatory for Super Visa applicants, as proof of a valid one-year policy meeting IRCC requirements is a strictly enforced condition for visa approval.
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Types of health insurance for visitors to Canada
In Canada, there are two main types of health insurance for tourists: Visitors to Canada insurance, which is available for all non-residents, and Super Visa insurance, designed for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents.
1. Visitors to Canada insurance
Visitors to Canada insurance is a standard travel medical insurance designed for non-residents visiting Canada, to provide coverage in case of 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
Super Visa insurance is a medical policy required for parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents visiting under the Super Visa program.
Unlike standard visitor insurance, this coverage is a mandatory legal requirement for visa application and must meet strict criteria set by IRCC. 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 in 2026, but it is strongly recommended. If a tourist gets sick in Canada, the Canadian government will not cover expenses related to hospitalisation, medication, or other medical services.
For instance, a single day in a Canadian hospital can cost thousands of dollars for uninsured visitors. Having visitor health insurance for your Canada trip can help protect you from these unexpected medical expenses. Note that for a Super visa, health insurance is a strict legal requirement for entry.
- Super Visa requirements: You must provide proof of a one-year medical insurance policy with at least $100,000 in coverage to be approved. As of 2026, IRCC now permits monthly payment plans for these policies, provided they meet all compliance standards.
- No provincial coverage: “Daily costs for an Intensive Care Unit (ICU) stay in provinces like Ontario and British Columbia can easily exceed $10,000. Because tourists are not covered by Canada’s publicly funded healthcare system, private insurance is a financial necessity.
- Avoid upfront costs: Many insurance plans feature “Direct Billing,” a system where the insurer pays the hospital or clinic directly. This prevents you from having to pay thousands of dollars out-of-pocket and eliminates the long wait for reimbursement.
How much does Visitor Insurance cost?
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What does visitor insurance in Canada actually cover?
Health insurance for visitors in Canada is designed to cover unforeseen medical emergencies rather than routine or elective care. Coverage typically includes emergency hospitalization, physician consultations, diagnostics (like X-rays and MRIs), and ambulance services.
Even if you have a pre-existing medical condition, you may still be covered, provided the condition is considered stable before your trip. In many cases, insurers define stability as having no major changes in medication, treatment, or symptoms within a specific period before travel. Some plans, such as those from TuGo, may even offer shorter stability periods, including options with just a 7-day stability requirement, making coverage more accessible for travellers managing existing health conditions.
However, it is equally important to identify the common exclusions, which generally include routine wellness checkups, and non-emergency procedures.
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?
The following are average estimated rates for non-residents in major Canadian provinces in 2026.
Hospital charges for tourists in Canada:
| Hospital Service | Estimated Cost for Tourists (in 2026) |
| Doctor’s appointments (Walk-in to Specialist) | $150 – $1,200+ |
| Emergency ER visit (Facility fee only) | $1,000 – $1,500 |
| X-ray (plus hospital visit fee) | $200 – $600 |
| MRI (plus hospital visit fee) | $1,500 – $3,000 |
| CT scan (plus hospital visit fee) | $1,500 – $2,500 |
| High-risk ultrasound (plus hospital visit fee) | $400 – $800 |
| Lab tests, each (plus hospital visit fee) | $100 – $500 per test |
| Ambulance charges (Ground) | $240 – $1,000+ |
| Rehabilitation & mobility appliances | $50 – $500+ |
| Ward room – Regular | $3,000 – $5,500 per day |
| Ward room – Semi-private | $3,500 – $6,000 per day |
| Ward room – Private | $4,000 – $7,000 per day |
| Ward – Intensive care (ICU) | $10,000 – $20,000+ per day |
*Charges as per a popular hospital in Ontario, Canada
Cost of tourist health insurance in Canada
The average cost of visitor health insurance for travellers to Canada typically starts from about $60 per month. Younger travellers (under 40 years) may pay between $60 and $85 monthly, while those aged 60 and above may see costs rise to approx $100 per month.
Cost of tourist health insurance in Canada:
| Age | Without pre-existing condition coverage | With pre-existing condition coverage |
| 25 | $62.22 | $78.79 |
| 35 | $74.46 | $85.17 |
| 45 | $86.45 | $97.80 |
| 55 | $91.29 | $106.80 |
| 65 | $98.69 | $143.31 |
*Illustrative rates for a traveller seeking $100,000 in coverage for a 30-day trip. The actual cost may vary depending on the insurer and destination.
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 are the best tourist health insurance providers in Canada?
In 2026, the best tourist health insurance providers in Canada are Allianz Global Assistance, Manulife, TuGo, and Destination Canada. For those seeking affordability and flexible payment options, Travelance and 21st Century are leaders in providing monthly installment plans, while TuGo remains the gold standard for travelers with stable pre-existing medical conditions.
- Allianz Global Assistance: Ideal for international students
- MSH International: Great for travelers planning side trips
- 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
How to choose the best tourist health insurance policy in Canada?
To choose the best travel policy, don’t just look at the premium price; also look for the below factors:
- Ensure the policy has a stability period (usually 90 to 180 days) that matches the traveler’s recent medical history.
- Look for plans that offer Direct Billing, which prevents you from having to pay thousands of dollars upfront at a Canadian hospital.
- For seniors or those with chronic conditions, a “stable pre-existing condition” rider is the most important feature.
- Choose a $0 deductible if you want the insurer to pay from the first dollar, or a higher deductible to lower your monthly premium.
- Prioritize companies with 24/7 Canadian-based support and digital claim portals.
What are the steps to purchase tourist health insurance in Canada?
Purchasing visitor insurance in 2026 is a 100% digital process that can be completed in a few minutes. Always purchase your policy before landing in Canada to avoid the mandatory 48–72 hour waiting period for illness coverage.
- Gather Information: Have the traveler’s date of birth, travel dates, and medical history (medication names/dates) ready.
- Get Quotes Online: Use PolicyAdvisor tool to compare quotes from top 2026 providers like Allianz, Manulife, and TuGo.
- Select Add-ons: Choose “Pre-existing Condition” coverage or “Trip Interruption” riders if necessary.
- Complete the Application: Answer the medical questionnaire (usually required for ages 55+) honestly to ensure claims aren’t denied later.
- Payment & Confirmation: Select between monthly installments (available for Super Visas) or a one-time payment. Your policy documents and Confirmation of Insurance (COI) will be emailed to you.
How to file a claim for tourist health insurance in Canada?
Filing a claim is predominantly done through mobile apps and web portals. The “Golden Rule” is to contact your insurer before receiving treatment (unless it is a life-threatening emergency). This allows the insurer to approve the treatment and set up direct billing with the hospital.
- Notify the Insurer: Call the 24/7 emergency number on your policy card immediately. They will provide a list of “Network Hospitals” near you.
- Gather Documentation: Keep original itemized bills, physician reports (with a clear diagnosis), and pharmacy receipts. Credit card slips are not sufficient for claims.
- Submit Electronically: Use the provider’s app (like Manulife’s GEM portal or TuGo’s MyGo) to upload photos of your receipts and your entry stamp/boarding pass (to prove you were within your coverage dates).
- Wait for Assessment: In 2026, standard claims are processed within 10–15 business days. High-cost hospital bills are usually settled directly between the insurer and the facility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I get health insurance in Canada as a visitor?
Yes, you can get health insurance through visitor medical insurance Canada 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?
It’s recommended to have travel health insurance Canada 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.
