Insurance for Newcomers to Canada & Those Awaiting Provincial Health Coverage

Table of Contents:

About This Insurance

This insurance is specifically designed for individuals who are currently not eligible for provincial health coverage and need protection during the waiting period. This plan is ideal for two main groups:

  • New Immigrants to Canada

Individuals who have recently arrived in Canada for permanent residence and are currently waiting to receive their provincial health card. The waiting period typically lasts up to 3 months (depending on the province).

  • Returning Canadians or Residents with Expired Provincial Coverage

Canadian citizens or permanent residents whose provincial health coverage has lapsed due to an extended stay outside their home province (typically 150 to 212 days, depending on the province). These individuals are required to obtain private health insurance to cover medical expenses until they receive their new health card.

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Simple Assessment form

To choose the best and most suitable insurance and to receive an accurate quote, please complete the form below.
***Why is it important to provide accurate personal information in the insurance form? ***

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Benefits

  • Provides immediate access to medical services while awaiting provincial health coverage.
  • Covers emergency medical treatment, hospital stays, doctor visits, and diagnostic tests.
  • Peace of mind during the transition period into the Canadian healthcare system.

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Conditions

  • Must apply before the provincial health coverage becomes active.
  • Coverage is temporary and ends once provincial coverage is approved.
  • Must be under a certain age limit depending on the insurance provider (e.g., under 70 or 80 years old).

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Coverage

The coverage of this insurance is up to one million dollars and includes:

  • Emergency hospital and medical care
  • Outpatient treatment costs
  • Prescription medications (emergency only)
  • Visits to general practitioners and specialists
  • Diagnostic services such as X-rays and lab tests
  • Ground and air ambulance
  • Medication and treatment coverage
  • COVID-19 coverage
  • Emergency dental treatment costs
  • Transportation or repatriation of the insured person
  • Compensation for delay and loss of passenger baggage
  • Repatriation of the deceased’s body
  • 24/7 service availability

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Premium Rate

The daily premium for this insurance starts at CAD 2.21 and depends on factors such as age, coverage amount, deductibles, health conditions, and the insurance company.

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Policy Changes After Issuance

In some cases, changes can be made before the policy start date or before traveling.

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Real-Case Example


My name is Michael N., a 45-year-old from South Africa. Two months ago, I moved to Alberta with my family. We were still in the waiting period for provincial health insurance, but for peace of mind, I had purchased newcomer health coverage with a $200,000 limit. At the time, I thought of it only as a “just in case” plan. I never imagined it would so quickly become my lifeline.

One cold winter evening, while returning home from shopping with my wife, the harsh Canadian weather proved too much for my body. Suddenly, I couldn’t breathe properly. My steps grew unsteady, and it felt as if there was no room left in my lungs for air. Alarmed, my wife called 911, and within minutes the sound of the ambulance siren filled the street. Inside the ambulance, struggling for every breath, one question haunted me: What if I didn’t have insurance? The thought of the costs alone doubled my anxiety.

At the hospital, I was immediately given emergency treatment and oxygen therapy. I spent one night admitted and received the necessary medication. The next day, when I returned home and could breathe normally again, I realized the true weight of what had happened: every cost had been covered by my insurance.

  • Ambulance service: $850
  • Emergency treatment & oxygen therapy: $1,900
  • One-day hospital stay: $2,400
  • Medications: $120

Total paid by insurer: $5,270

Looking back on that stressful night, one truth stands out clearly in my mind:
Having insurance is not a luxury—it’s a decision that can protect your life and your family’s future.

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FAQ

Does it matter when I buy insurance?
Yes. Just like other important life decisions where you seek advice from a licensed expert with sufficient expertise, the same approach is recommended for insurance. After you fill out and submit the insurance form on this page, we will select the most suitable insurance plan for you based on your needs.

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mohammad rahimian
Moe Rahimian - Insurance Broker, Toronto
My reputation is more important than my paycheck.
Direct phone number:
📞 905-370-0011
Rahimian Insurance Company has been operating in Canada since 2002. We are an official member of the Insurance and Financial Advisors of Canada. We offer individual, group, and investment insurance services. I, Mohammad Rahimian, along with my experienced colleagues, am at your service—offering free consultations with our expertise in the field of insurance.