Health Care in Canada for Newcomers: Health Cards, Waiting Periods and Private Insurance
In this guide
How does health care work for newcomers to Canada? You apply for a provincial or territorial health card, and IRCC says government coverage can take up to three months to start after you apply. It suggests buying private insurance while you wait. Provincial plans usually do not cover eye care, glasses, dental care, prescription medicines or ambulance services.
Quick answer
- Apply for a health card as soon as you can. Settlement organizations can help.
- Government coverage can take up to three months to start, depending on where you live.
- IRCC says it is a good idea to buy private insurance while you wait. Low-cost private insurers are available.
- Always carry your health card. You need it to see a doctor or receive hospital care.
- In an emergency, call 911.
How do you get a health card?
IRCC says settlement organizations can help you apply, and that applying for a health card is one of the first things they help you do. The process is run by each province or territory. For two worked examples see OHIP in Ontario, RAMQ in Quebec and MSP in British Columbia.
Is there a waiting period?
It depends on the province. IRCC’s general guidance is that coverage can take up to three months. Ontario states that it no longer has a waiting period for OHIP, so always check your own province’s rule.
What does a provincial plan usually not cover?
| Often not covered by provincial plans |
|---|
| Eye care and glasses |
| Dental care |
| Prescription medicines |
| Ambulance services |
This is why private insurance is worth comparing even after your health card arrives.
What if you cannot find a family doctor?
Your settlement service provider may direct you to a local walk-in clinic. IRCC also says that if you face family or gender-based violence, you can seek help at a walk-in clinic or from a doctor, where you can speak privately.
What counts as an emergency?
Always call 911 if someone is in immediate danger. Hospitals treat emergency patients first, such as people with heart attacks, strokes, heavy bleeding or broken bones, so a minor problem may mean a long wait.
Common mistakes
- Going without cover during the wait. A private plan can bridge the gap.
- Assuming everything is covered. Dental, eye care and medicines usually are not.
- Leaving the card at home. You need it for doctors and hospitals.
- Using the emergency room for minor issues. Try a walk-in clinic.
FAQ
Who can help me apply?
Settlement organizations. IRCC describes their services as free.
Is private insurance compulsory?
IRCC calls it a good idea while you wait, not a legal requirement.
What is covered if I am injured abroad before my card arrives?
That depends on your plan. Read the policy wording before you buy.
Key takeaways
- Apply for your provincial health card quickly.
- Bridge any waiting period with private insurance.
- Know what your province does not cover.
Related guides
- Moving abroad checklist
- Your first 90 days in a new country
- OHIP for newcomers
- Canada immigration medical exam
- Cost of living in Canada
Last updated: October 2026. This guide is general information, not medical or insurance advice. Rules vary by province, so check your provincial health ministry.
Sources
- Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada: Health care
- Government of Ontario: Apply for OHIP and get a health card