Apply for a Health Card
Canada has a universal healthcare system, but the prerequisite is that you must hold a health card issued by the province where you reside. Only by obtaining a health card can you use public medical resources such as hospitals and family doctors for free.
What is a Health Card?
A Health Card is a medical identity credential provided by the Canadian government to residents.
Each province issues it under a slightly different name by its own provincial government, but the functions are the same.
With a health card, you don't need to pay for doctor visits (most routine medical services are free).
It is not issued automatically and needs to be applied for by yourself!
️ Examples of Health Card Names in Different Provinces
Province：Ontario (ON)
Health Card Name：OHIP
Administrative Agency：Service Ontario
Province：British Columbia (BC)
Health Card Name：MSP
Administrative Agency：Health Insurance BC
Province：Quebec (QC)
Health Card Name：RAMQ
Administrative Agency：Régie de l'assurance maladie
Province：Alberta (AB)
Health Card Name：AHCIP
Administrative Agency：Alberta Health
Province：Manitoba (MB)
Health Card Name：Manitoba Health Card
Administrative Agency：Manitoba Health
Note: The application processes, waiting times, and coverage areas vary from province to province.
Application Requirements (Taking Ontario as an Example)
Valid identification (choose one of the following):
Passport + Visa
Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) or Permanent Resident Card (Maple Leaf Card)
Proof of residence (choose one of the following):
Rental contract, utility bill, bank statement (showing your name and address)
Children's school enrollment certificate, landlord's statement letter, etc. can also be used as supporting materials
Identity category documents (showing your legal residence status):
Study or work permit
Maple Leaf Card or immigration papers
Service Canada/Service Ontario provides a complete list. It is recommended to verify in advance.
How to Apply for a Health Card
Method 1: Offline Application (Most Provinces)
Locate the local application office (such as Service Ontario).
Bring all the required materials and go to the office.
Take a photo and have your information entered on the spot.
Wait for the health card to be mailed to your address (usually 2 - 4 weeks).
Method 2: Online/By-Mail Application (Supported Only in Some Provinces)
For example, the MSP in BC province can be applied for online (documents need to be scanned and uploaded).
If a province supports application by mail, you can also send the form and copies by mail.
Waiting Period Explanation (Some Provinces Have It)
Province | Waiting Period (Is It Effective Immediately?) |
Ontario (ON) | ❌ No waiting period (for PRs/work permit holders) |
BC Province | ✅ Usually need to wait 3 months |
Quebec (QC) | ✅ Usually wait 3 months |
It is recommended to purchase private medical insurance (such as student insurance, temporary visitor medical insurance) during the waiting period to prevent unexpected situations.
Application Tips
It is recommended to apply as soon as you arrive in Canada to avoid having no medical coverage when getting sick.
Wear dark - colored clothes when taking the photo, as the photo background is usually white.
After the health card is mailed to your home, keep it properly and do not carry it with you (except when seeking medical treatment).
Update your address after moving to avoid missing renewal notices.
Some provinces allow the whole family to apply together. Bring the materials of your spouse and children.
What Can You Do After Getting a Health Card?
Make an appointment with a family doctor (it is recommended to register as early as possible).
Go to a walk - in clinic (a clinic that does not require an appointment) for minor illnesses.
Go to the hospital for emergency treatment (in case of an emergency).
Receive free basic public medical services such as vaccinations and physical examinations.
Some items such as dental care, eye care, and medications are not covered. You can consider purchasing private insurance (such as student insurance, company benefit plans, etc.).
Summary
A health card is the "ticket" for you to enjoy free medical care in Canada. The policies vary from province to province, but applying early and preparing all the materials are essential for all new immigrants. Even if you've just arrived, don't wait until you're sick to start preparing!