Which is the cheapest visitor insurance for Canada?

The cheapest visitor insurance options for non-residents in Canada vary based on the individual’s health and the coverage offered. Some of the most affordable visitor insurance providers in Canada are Travelance, Tugo, Destination, and 21st Century. 

In this guide, we will explore the most cost-effective visitor insurance options, helping you safeguard your health and finances without breaking the bank.

What is a visitor to Canada health insurance?

Visitor medical insurance for visitors to Canada is designed to cover emergency medical expenses such as hospital stays, doctor visits, prescription drugs, ambulance services, etc., for non-residents visiting Canada. 

The Canadian healthcare system does not cover non-residents, making medical insurance for visitors to Canada an essential type of coverage. 

What factors affect the cost of your visitors’ health insurance in Canada?

When determining the cost of your visitor insurance, factors such as age, health status, the length of stay, and the province you plan to visit might come into play. Understanding these can help you anticipate and manage your insurance expenses effectively:

• Age: Insurance premiums often increase with age. Older visitors generally face higher insurance costs due to the increased likelihood of health issues
• Health status and pre-existing conditions: Your current health status, including any pre-existing medical conditions, significantly impacts your insurance price. Plans that cover pre-existing conditions typically come with higher premiums
• The duration of your visit: The length of your stay in Canada directly influences your insurance costs. The longer you stay, the higher the overall premium, as the risk period for the insurer is extended
• Coverage limits and deductibles: Higher coverage limits generally result in higher premiums, while choosing a higher deductible can lower your insurance costs. However, this means you’ll pay more out-of-pocket in the event of a claim
• Province-based coverage: Healthcare costs can vary by province in Canada. Insurance premiums may be higher if you’re visiting provinces with more expensive healthcare systems, like Ontario or British Columbia
• High-risk activities: If you plan to engage in activities deemed risky—such as skiing, mountain climbing, or other extreme sports—your insurance premium may increase due to the higher likelihood of injury

Which companies offer the cheapest visitor health insurance in Canada?

Several companies, such as Travelance, Tugo, and 21st Century, offer affordable visitor health insurance for non-residents in Canada. 

Here is a list of the top visitor insurance providers that offer the cheapest plans for different health conditions, ages, and coverage options. 

1. Secure Travel – Cheapest overall
2. Travelance – Cheapest for older individuals
3. TuGo – Cheapest for pre-existing conditions
4. Destination – Cheapest for monthly plans
5. 21st Century – Cheapest for longer stays
6. GMS – Cheapest for deductibles

Cheapest visitor health insurance overall: Secure Travel

If you’re looking for the most affordable visitor health insurance in Canada, Secure Travel consistently ranks as the cheapest option for many travellers. It offers dependable emergency coverage at a fraction of the cost compared to other providers, which is ideal for short-term visitors in good health.

Average cost: A 30-day policy with $100,000 in emergency medical coverage typically costs between $95 and $328, depending on the visitor’s age, health, and deductible choice.

Key features of Secure Travel:

• Emergency medical coverage up to $300,000

• Coverage for hospitalization, physician fees, and diagnostic services

• Direct billing with participating healthcare providers

• Optional accidental death and dismemberment coverage

• Multiple deductible options to lower premium costs

• Coverage for stable pre-existing conditions (subject to eligibility)

Why PolicyAdvisor recommends:

• Among the lowest premiums available in the Canadian visitor insurance market

• Straightforward application process with fast policy issuance

• Flexible trip duration and coverage limits to match visitor needs

• Deductible choices that allow travellers to reduce premiums

Considerations:

• Maximum coverage limits are lower than some premium plans

• Limited non-medical benefits (e.g., no trip cancellation or baggage coverage)

• Pre-existing condition coverage is limited and subject to a stability requirement

Monthly premiums for visitor health insurance in Canada by Secure Travel

*Cost of $100k in coverage for a visitor traveling to Canada for a 30-day period

Cheapest visitor health insurance for older individuals: Travelance

Travelance is one of the most affordable options for older visitors to Canada, particularly those aged 70 and above. It offers competitively priced plans that cater specifically to the needs of senior travellers, making it a top choice for emergency medical coverage in this age group.

Average cost: A 30-day policy with $100,000 in emergency medical coverage typically ranges from $85 to $400, depending on the visitor’s age, medical history, and deductible selection.

Key features of Travelance:

• Emergency medical coverage up to $300,000

• Specialized plans for seniors aged 70 to 89

• Optional coverage for stable pre-existing conditions

• Access to 24/7 emergency assistance and direct billing

• Choice of deductibles to adjust the premium cost

• Covers hospitalization, physician visits, and prescription medications

Why PolicyAdvisor recommends it:

• Among the most affordable plans for travellers over age 70

• Coverage options designed specifically for older individuals

• Includes benefits like diagnostics, hospital stays, and emergency care

• Offers flexible deductible options to reduce premium costs

Considerations:

• Pre-existing condition coverage requires a stability period and varies by age

• Some plans may have reduced benefits for travellers over 85

• Non-medical benefits (e.g., trip interruption) are not included by default

Monthly premiums for visitor health insurance in Canada by Travelance

*Cost of $100k in coverage for a visitor traveling to Canada for a 30-day period

Cheapest visitor health insurance for pre-existing conditions: TuGo

TuGo is one of the best options for visitors to Canada with pre-existing medical conditions. It offers competitively priced plans that include coverage for stable pre-existing conditions, making it a preferred choice for travellers managing chronic health concerns.

Average cost: A 30-day policy with $100,000 in emergency medical coverage typically ranges from $100 to $500, depending on the traveller’s age, health status, and deductible selection.

Key features of TuGo:

• Emergency medical coverage up to $300,000

• Coverage for stable pre-existing conditions (typically 90 to 180 days of stability required)

• 24/7 emergency assistance and multilingual support

• Direct billing with many Canadian healthcare providers

Why PolicyAdvisor recommends it:

• Among the most affordable plans that cover stable pre-existing conditions

• Transparent eligibility rules with defined stability periods

• Comprehensive emergency coverage tailored to visitors with chronic health need

Considerations:

• Stability period requirements vary by age and condition

• Premiums can increase significantly for older applicants with multiple health issues

• Does not automatically include coverage for non-emergency or trip-related benefits

Monthly premiums for visitor health insurance in Canada by TuGo

*Cost of $100k in coverage for a visitor traveling to Canada for a 30-day period

Cheapest visitor health insurance for monthly plans: Destination Canada

Destination Canada is a top choice for visitors who prefer to pay for their insurance on a monthly basis rather than up front. It offers flexible monthly payment options and long-term plans, making it ideal for budget-conscious travellers staying in Canada for extended periods.

Average cost: A 30-day policy with $100,000 in emergency medical coverage typically ranges from $80 to $478, depending on the visitor’s age, health condition, and selected deductible.

Key features of Destination Canada:

• Emergency medical coverage available from $50,000 to $300,000

• Monthly payment option available for long-term policies

• Coverage for emergency care, hospitalization, diagnostics, and physician fees

• Optional benefits include accidental death and travel interruption

• Coverage is available for certain stable pre-existing conditions

Why PolicyAdvisor recommends it:

• Offers a rare monthly payment option to help manage upfront costs

• Competitive pricing for longer stays and extended visitor coverage

• Comprehensive emergency care benefits with flexible coverage limits

Considerations:

• Monthly payments may be subject to additional administration fees

• Not all coverage options are available on monthly terms

• Pre-existing condition coverage depends on age and stability period requirements

Monthly premiums for visitor health insurance in Canada by Destination Canada

*Cost of $100k in coverage for a visitor traveling to Canada for a 30-day period

Affordable visitor health insurance for deductibles: GMS

GMS (Group Medical Services) offers some of the lowest premiums for visitors who choose higher deductibles. This option is ideal for travellers willing to cover a larger portion of their initial medical expenses out of pocket in exchange for reduced insurance costs.

Average cost: A 30-day policy with $100,000 in emergency medical coverage typically ranges from $100 to $450, depending on the visitor’s age, health status, and selected deductible. The lowest premiums are available with a $500 deductible.

Key features of GMS:

• Emergency medical coverage up to $500,000

• Deductible options ranging from $0 to $10,000

• Optional benefits such as trip interruption and accidental death

• Coverage available for stable pre-existing conditions (with a defined stability period)

• Fast and easy online application process

Why PolicyAdvisor recommends it:

• Lowest premiums in the market for plans with a $500 deductible

• Wide range of deductible options to customize premium levels

• Reliable emergency medical coverage from a reputable Canadian provider

• Strong value for short-term visitors seeking cost savings

Considerations:

• Higher deductibles mean greater out-of-pocket expenses before coverage begins

• Limited non-medical benefits unless purchased as add-ons

• Stability period required for pre-existing condition coverage eligibility

Monthly premiums for visitor health insurance in Canada by GMS

*Cost of $100k in coverage for a visitor traveling to Canada for a 30-day period

Budget-friendly visitor health insurance for longer stays: 21st Century

21st Century offers some of the most affordable visitor health insurance plans for those planning extended stays in Canada. With coverage available for up to two years, it’s an ideal choice for long-term visitors, such as family members, retirees, or those here for work or study.

Average cost: A 30-day policy with $100,000 in emergency medical coverage typically ranges from $89 to $480, depending on the visitor’s age, medical history, and selected deductible. Premiums often decrease for longer durations.

Key features of 21st Century:

• Emergency medical coverage up to $300,000 or more

• Long-term policies available for up to 730 days (2 years)

• Optional benefits including repatriation, trip interruption, and accidental death

• Stable pre-existing condition coverage available with defined stability periods

• Monthly rates decrease for longer coverage durations

Why PolicyAdvisor recommends it:

• Excellent value for long-term visitors with decreasing premium rates

• One of the few providers offering true long-stay coverage up to two years

• Flexible options for deductibles and coverage limits

• Strong benefits package even for extended stays

Considerations:

• Coverage limits are lower than some premium-priced plans

• Pre-existing condition coverage is subject to age and medical stability requirements

Monthly premiums for visitor health insurance in Canada by 21st Century

*Cost of $100k in coverage for a visitor traveling to Canada for a 30-day period

How much does Canadian visitors’ insurance cost?

Visitors’ health insurance in Canada costs between $70 to $450, depending on your age, health status, coverage amounts, and the duration of the trip. Here is an example of a cost breakdown of different age groups with and without pre-existing health conditions:  

Cost of visitor health insurance in Canada

*Cost of $100,000 in coverage for a visitor traveling to Canada for a 30-day period

How can I reduce the cost of my visitors’ insurance?

You can reduce the cost of your visitors’ insurance by choosing a higher deductible, purchasing insurance early, applying for group discounts, and more. Here are some practical tips that may help:

• Choose a higher deductible: Opting for a higher deductible can significantly reduce your premium. For example, a 30-year-old visitor choosing a $500 deductible with Secure Travel could save $20/month compared to a $100 deductible, though you’ll pay more out-of-pocket if a claim arises.
• Limit your coverage: If you don’t need comprehensive coverage, consider selecting a basic plan with lower coverage limits. This reduces the premium but still provides essential protection
• Consider shorter coverage periods: If your visit to Canada is flexible, opting for a shorter coverage period can reduce your premium

Are there any discounts on visitor health insurance?

Many insurance providers in Canada offer discounts on visitor health insurance under certain conditions. These savings can depend on factors like your age, policy duration, deductible amount, health status, or whether you’re applying as part of a couple or family. For example, 21st Century offers a family discount for visitor medical insurance.

Some brokers may offer exclusive discounts when you compare multiple plans through their platforms. Paying upfront or opting for longer-term coverage can also lower your premium. To maximize savings, it’s best to work with licensed advisors who can help you choose the most cost-effective option.

Can I get a refund if I cancel my visitor health insurance?

Yes, you can cancel your visitor health insurance plan for Canada and receive a refund, though the terms differ between insurers.

Many providers offer full refunds if you cancel within the free-look period or before the policy takes effect. Once coverage has started, you may be eligible for a pro-rata refund for unused days, minus any applicable fees.

Can I pay monthly for my visitor insurance policy?

Yes, you can pay monthly for your visitor insurance policy through several trusted Canadian providers. Travelance, 21st Century, Secure Travel, and Destination Canada all offer convenient and affordable monthly payment options. These plans help visitors manage their finances better by spreading out premium payments instead of paying the full amount upfront.

Monthly payments are especially useful for families, seniors, or long-term visitors who want coverage without a heavy one-time cost. Always confirm the terms, as monthly plans may involve service fees or minimum coverage durations.

Choosing the right deductible: Balancing cost and coverage

When selecting visitor insurance for Canada, choosing the right deductible is key to managing both premium costs and out-of-pocket expenses. A higher deductible lowers your premium but increases the amount you must pay before coverage kicks in.

Alternatively, a lower deductible results in higher premiums but reduces your financial burden if you need medical care. For short-term visitors in good health who are unlikely to require medical attention, a higher deductible can be a cost-effective option.

However, for older travelers or those with pre-existing conditions, a lower deductible may provide better financial protection by minimizing upfront costs in case of an emergency.

If I choose a cheaper visitor insurance policy, will it affect my coverage?

Yes, choosing a cheaper visitor insurance policy can affect your coverage. Low-cost policies typically offer reduced benefits, such as lower coverage limits, higher deductibles, or fewer covered services as compared to high-cost policies that offer comprehensive features.

For example, a cheaper policy might not cover pre-existing conditions, emergency medical evacuation, or certain high-cost treatments or surgeries even if you need them on an emergency basis.

However, if you are a young and healthy individual with no history of pre-existing illnesses, cheaper policies can truly help you save quite a lot of money upfront.  For older individuals, it is better to opt for mid-range or high-cost plans with well-rounded coverage for their comprehensive needs.

How to get the best visitor health insurance quotes in Canada?

You can find the most affordable visitor health insurance quotes for your trip to Canada by comparing plans online, and with PolicyAdvisor, the process takes less than a minute. Our licensed experts help you access and compare quotes from over 30 best visitor health insurance companies in Canada, including trusted names like Manulife, Allianz, Travelance, and more. 

We don’t just stop at finding you the cheapest premium. Our advisors guide you through the entire application process. We also provide dedicated after-sales support for claims or policy changes in the future. With PolicyAdvisor, getting the right coverage is fast, easy, and reliable.

Frequently asked questions 

Are there any hidden fees in cheap visitor insurance plans?

While cheap visitor insurance plans generally disclose all fees upfront, some plans might include hidden costs like higher deductibles, co-pays, or limited coverage that could lead to unexpected out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, certain services or treatments may not be covered, resulting in additional costs. 

How can I ensure my insurance will cover emergency medical services in Canada?

To ensure your insurance covers emergency medical services in Canada, choose a more comprehensive plan with a higher coverage amount and added benefits such as emergency medical care, hospitalization, ambulance services, accidental dental coverage, paramedical service coverage, emergency evacuation facility, and more. 

Can I update my visitor insurance policy if my travel plans change?

Yes, you can usually update your visitor insurance policy if your travel plans change. Contact your insurance provider as soon as you know about the changes to adjust your coverage period or details. Be aware that changes may affect your premium or coverage terms, and there could be deadlines or additional fees. 

What is the average cost of visitor health insurance?

The average cost of visitor health insurance can vary widely based on factors such as age, duration of stay, coverage limits, and health status. On average for a coverage amount of $100,000, a 50-year-old individual may have to pay $50 for a short-term stay of 14 days, $100 for a medium-term stay of 30 days, and around $150 for a long-term stay of 6 months. 

Are there any discounts on visitor health insurance in Canada?

Yes, discounts on visitor health insurance in Canada are available, though they vary by insurer. Some companies offer discounts for purchasing extended coverage, paying premiums upfront, or insuring multiple family members under one policy. Additionally, certain providers may have special promotions or reduced rates for younger applicants or those in good health.

Can visitors to Canada buy health insurance?

Yes, visitors to Canada can and should buy health insurance to cover potential medical expenses during their stay. Canada’s healthcare is publicly funded for residents, but non-residents must pay for services, which can be costly.

What are the common limitations and exclusions in visitor insurance policies?

Visitor insurance policies in Canada typically exclude pre-existing medical conditions unless specifically covered, as well as routine check-ups, preventive care, maternity expenses, and mental health treatments. 

Other common exclusions include injuries from high-risk activities (such as extreme sports), alcohol- or drug-related incidents, and non-emergency treatments. Some policies also impose waiting periods for certain benefits, meaning coverage may not be immediate.  

How should I compare different visitor insurance policies?

When comparing visitor insurance policies, key factors to consider include coverage limits, deductibles, and the extent of emergency medical benefits. Look for policies that cover hospitalization, doctor visits, prescription drugs, and emergency medical evacuation. 

Premium costs should be weighed against deductible options, as a lower premium may come with higher out-of-pocket expenses. Additionally, you must consider the insurer’s reputation, customer reviews, and claims process efficiency to ensure reliable support in case of an emergency.