Provincial health insurance
Each province and territory administers its own public health insurance plan. As a permanent resident, you are eligible for coverage, but registration requirements and waiting periods vary.
British Columbia (MSP)
- No waiting period for new PRs
- Premium-free since 2020
- Apply online or by mail
- Covers medically necessary services
Ontario (OHIP)
- 3-month waiting period from arrival
- Free for eligible residents
- Get private insurance during wait
- Covers doctor visits and hospital care
Register immediately upon arrival, even if there is a waiting period. If your province has a waiting period, obtain private health insurance to cover the interim period.
Finding healthcare providers
Having a family doctor is important for ongoing healthcare. Canada faces doctor shortages in many areas. Ask settlement workers for referrals, check provincial health authority websites, contact community health centers, and use doctor finder services. Use walk-in clinics for non-emergency care while you wait. Specialists require a referral. Dental and eye care require private insurance.
Emergency and urgent care
Call 911 for
- Severe injury
- Chest pain
- Difficulty breathing
- Severe bleeding
- Unconsciousness
Emergency Room for
- Broken bones, deep cuts
- High fever, severe pain
- Available 24/7
Most provinces offer 24/7 health advice lines staffed by registered nurses. Call 8-1-1 in BC and Alberta. Call 1-866-797-0000 in Ontario (Telehealth).
Mental health and wellness
Immigration and settlement can be stressful. Mental health services are available and there is no stigma in seeking support.
- Counseling: Through community health centers and settlement agencies
- Crisis lines: 24/7 support available across Canada
- Support groups: Newcomer-specific and community groups
- Employee Assistance Programs (EAP): Through many employers
Crisis resources
Crisis Services Canada: 1-833-456-4566 | Kids Help Phone: 1-800-668-6868 | Hope for Wellness: 1-855-242-3310 | Talk Suicide Canada: 1-833-456-4566
Prescription medications
Most prescription medications are not fully covered by provincial health insurance. Coverage typically comes through employer benefits or private insurance. Bring a detailed medication list from your home country and see a Canadian doctor to get new prescriptions. Ask about generic alternatives to reduce costs.