Frequently Asked Questions

Common coverage includes hospitalization, doctor and surgeon fees, prescription medications, X-rays, ultrasound and blood tests, ambulance, repatriation, funeral costs, emergency eye exams and dental emergencies, and side trips to the USA, Mexico and Cuba on many plans. Every plan has limitations — please review the policy wording or contact us.

Besides the immigration requirements, you need at least $100,000 of emergency medical insurance from an insurer accepted by IRCC.

At least $100,000, valid for one year from the date you arrive in Canada.

Most insurers cover applicants up to age 89. Special quotes may be available for older applicants — call us.

One year from your arrival in Canada. Keep proof of coverage with you, as immigration officers may ask for it.

With proof of the visa refusal you generally receive a full refund. Without proof, a cancellation fee (often up to $250) may apply.

Contact us before the original start date and we can change the coverage dates for you.

No — a one-year policy is required. If you return home early with no claims, a partial refund may be possible, usually minus a small administration fee.

If you choose a deductible, you pay that amount yourself before the insurance company starts paying a claim.

IRCC requires at least $100,000 for Super Visa. Hospital stays in Canada can cost thousands of dollars per day, so more coverage gives extra peace of mind.

Before arriving. Policies bought after arrival usually have a waiting period of 48 hours to 8 days before illness is covered.

It's the amount you pay before the insurer starts reimbursing you. Deductibles can apply per claim or per policy period; a higher deductible usually means a lower premium.

A condition you had symptoms of, were treated or hospitalized for, or took medication for during a look-back period before coverage starts. The look-back period varies by insurer, so check the policy exclusions.

Yes. If the condition meets the insurer's stability requirements, the policy covers new, unrelated illnesses and injuries — and some plans also cover the stable condition itself.

Some insurers cover conditions that have been stable for 90 to 180 days before arrival. Routine maintenance isn't covered, but emergencies, hospitalization or related complications may be.

No medical test is required. Coverage can start as early as the day after you buy online.

Often yes, if you apply before the policy expires, the insured is in good health and there are no pending claims. Recent medical visits may be treated as pre-existing conditions on the extension.

Visitors on vacation or business, Super Visa holders, returning Canadians without provincial coverage, and new immigrants waiting for a provincial health plan to start.

Policies can usually be cancelled for a full refund before the effective date, less any administration fee. After the start date, refunds for early departure apply only to claim-free policies.

Generally yes, as long as charges are reasonable and customary. Some plans pay less if you use a provider that isn't approved — check your policy.

Sudden, unexpected and unforeseeable medical expenses. See the benefits section of your plan for details and maximums.

Common exclusions include unstable pre-existing conditions, substance abuse, high-risk sports, routine or cosmetic care, and treatment that required pre-approval but didn't get it.

A few insurers offer limited coverage at that age. Contact us and we'll find the options.

The insurer's claims adjuster decides, based on the physician's statement, the medical history and the policy's pre-existing condition terms.

Medical care in Canada is very expensive for visitors. Without coverage, one emergency could cost tens of thousands of dollars.

A broker compares many insurers, works for you rather than the insurance company, and helps with questions and claims — at no extra cost.

No. Published premiums are the rates, and brokers aren't permitted to offer discounts — so you pay the same price whether you buy direct or through us.

Often not. Credit card coverage is usually limited in amount, trip length or age eligibility. Read the fine print carefully.

Canadian plans typically offer faster claims, direct billing with hospitals and regulation by Canadian authorities.

Yes. Health can change suddenly, and Canadian medical care is costly.

We don't recommend it. Both parents should have adequate coverage.

Injuries are covered from the time of purchase, but illness after arrival usually has a 48-hour to 8-day waiting period — so buy before you need it.

Canadian hosts who sponsored a visiting relative or friend may be held responsible for unpaid medical bills.

Fill in the free quote form, compare the insurers, then buy online or ask us to complete the application. You'll receive confirmation by email.

The emailed confirmation of coverage serves as your proof; a printed copy is a good idea when travelling.

Ask about the deductible, pre-existing condition coverage, look-back periods and whether you must use approved providers. Compare policies — don't choose on price alone.

Yes. It contains the full terms, limits and emergency contact numbers. Keep a copy with you during the trip.