Sorting out healthcare can be the trickiest part of your study-abroad checklist. Rules change by province, some students qualify for public (provincial) plans, others must buy university or private cover, and there are waiting periods and opt‑out deadlines to watch. This guide makes it simple. We map the best health insurance for international students in Canada by province and scenario, compare popular student plans, and give you a step‑by‑step method to pick the right cover—without paying twice or leaving gaps.
What you’ll get:
- Provincial eligibility (MSP, OHIP/UHIP, RAMQ, AHCIP, etc.) and what to buy if you’re not eligible
- A comparison of trusted student insurers and university plans (guard.me, iMED, UHIP, Studentcare, Desjardins)
- Costs, coverage features to prioritise, and a 10‑step checklist to choose confidently
Note: Provincial rules and university policies change. Always confirm on your province’s health ministry website and your school’s health insurance page.
How student health coverage works in Canada (the quick overview)
Think of Canadian student healthcare as a stack:
- Provincial health insurance (public): Covers medically necessary care (hospital, physician). Eligibility varies by province and study‑permit length.
- University/college plan: Mandatory at most schools; acts as primary cover if you’re not eligible for the province, or as supplemental (extended health & dental) if you are.
- Private student insurance (if needed): Guard.me/Allianz/Desjardins/Morcare/Studentcare plans provide emergency medical, doctor visits, and travel features where the province doesn’t.
- Extended health & dental: Covers prescriptions, dental, vision, mental health therapy, paramedical, travel—usually through your student union (Green Shield/Sun Life/Desjardins).
If you’re researching the best health insurance for international students in Canada, your first step is to check whether your province offers public coverage to international students—and when it starts.
 |
| Best Health Insurance for International Students in Canada |
Do you need private insurance? Province‑by‑province snapshot (2025)
Eligibility and fees change. Use this table as a starting point and verify with official sources.
| Province/Territory | Provincial plan for international students? | Typical path for new students | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| British Columbia (BC) | Yes (MSP) after waiting period | Buy bridging cover (e.g., iMED/guard.me) for first ~3 months; then enrol in MSP | International student fee applies; confirm current monthly amount and waiting period |
| Ontario | No OHIP | UHIP is mandatory at most universities/colleges; add extended health & dental via student union | UHIP = primary medical cover for internationals in ON |
| Québec | Conditional (RAMQ) | If from a country with a social security agreement, you may get RAMQ; otherwise your university’s plan is mandatory | Agreements include e.g., France, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Sweden, Luxembourg (verify latest) |
| Alberta | Yes (AHCIP), typically for 12‑month+ study permits | Enrol in AHCIP if eligible; use school/private plan if shorter stay | Check residency and permit length rules before arrival |
| Saskatchewan | Often Yes (Saskatchewan Health Card) if staying ≥6 months | Apply for provincial card; school plan may still provide extended health & dental | Verify current eligibility thresholds |
| Manitoba | Frequently Yes (Manitoba Health) | Many international students are eligible again; confirm and apply | Rules were updated in recent years—check latest |
| Nova Scotia | Conditional (MSI) | Some students qualify based on permit length/residency; many schools still require private cover initially | Ask your university (e.g., Dalhousie, SMU) about MSI + bridging |
| New Brunswick | Often No | University plan (e.g., guard.me/Allianz) typically mandatory | Confirm with your registrar |
| Newfoundland & Labrador | Conditional (MCP) | May qualify based on permit/residency; otherwise school plan applies | Check wait periods and documentation |
| Prince Edward Island | Conditional | Eligibility depends on residency and permit; many schools mandate private plans | Verify with province/school |
| Territories (YT/NT/NU) | Varies | Most students rely on private plans | Confirm locally |
Key takeaway: In BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and some Atlantic cases, you may join the provincial plan (after a wait). In Ontario, you won’t—UHIP is your primary medical insurance. In Québec, RAMQ depends on reciprocal agreements; otherwise your university’s plan is mandatory.
Editor’s picks by scenario (what usually works best)
Studying in Ontario (Toronto, Ottawa, Waterloo, London)
- Best fit: UHIP (primary medical) + your student union’s extended health & dental plan
- Add: Dental/vision top‑ups if needed; travel cover for trips outside Canada
Studying in BC (Vancouver, Victoria, Surrey)
- Best fit: iMED (first ~3 months) + MSP afterwards; keep student extended health & dental
- Tip: Apply for MSP as soon as you have your study permit; don’t let your bridging plan lapse early
Studying in Québec (Montréal, Québec City)
- If eligible for RAMQ via a reciprocal agreement: RAMQ (primary) + university extended plan
- If not eligible: University’s international health plan (often Desjardins/Blue Cross) + extended benefits
Studying in Alberta/Saskatchewan/Manitoba
- Best fit: Apply for AHCIP/SK/MB Health if your permit qualifies; use school plan as extended cover
- If short program (<6–12 months): University/private plan is primary
Exchange/short‑term (<6 months)
- Best fit: Comprehensive private student plan (guard.me/Allianz/StudyInsured) with high emergency limits and repatriation
Bringing family (spouse/children)
- Best fit: Add dependents to provincial plan where eligible; otherwise buy a family student policy (check maternity waiting periods and paediatric coverage)
What the best student plans typically include (coverage checklist)
When comparing the best health insurance for international students in Canada, look for:
- Emergency medical: At least CAD $1–5 million per year
- Doctor/clinic visits: In‑province care for illness and injury; telemedicine options
- Hospital inpatient care: Room/board, surgeries, ICU
- Diagnostics: X‑rays, labs; advanced imaging (MRI/CT) when medically necessary
- Prescription drugs: Reasonable annual limit and retail pharmacy coverage
- Mental health: Counselling/psychology sessions or reimbursement
- Paramedical: Physiotherapy, chiropractic, osteopathy, massage (with caps)
- Maternity: Waiting periods common; coverage varies—read carefully
- Pre‑existing conditions: “Stable” clause definitions matter (e.g., stable for 90/180 days)
- Repatriation/evacuation: Medical evacuation, return of remains
- Travel outside province/Canada: Short trip coverage (e.g., co‑op terms, reading week)
- Direct billing network: Fewer out‑of‑pocket payments; easier claims
- 24/7 claims & assistance line: For ER admission and urgent questions
Popular student plans & administrators (what you’ll see on campus)
| Plan/Administrator | Where you’ll see it | Highlights | Good to know |
|---|---|---|---|
| UHIP (Ontario) | Most ON universities/colleges | Primary medical for internationals; large provider network | Doesn’t include dental/vision by default—student union covers extended |
| iMED (UBC) | UBC incoming students (first 3 months) | Bridges to MSP; emergency and basic care for waiting period | Starts on arrival; adjust if you arrive early |
| guard.me | Many colleges/unis across Canada | Strong emergency medical, travel, mental health options | Schools may auto‑enrol; opt‑out rules apply |
| Studentcare (Green Shield/Sun Life) | Student unions nationwide | Extended health & dental (Rx, dental, vision, paramedical) | Pairs with provincial/UHIP; opt‑out deadlines each term |
| Desjardins/Blue Cross | Québec & national partners | University international plans; RAMQ integration | Country reciprocal docs may allow RAMQ instead |
| Morcare/StudyInsured/Allianz | Select schools/programs | Comprehensive student medical; travel and family add‑ons | Read pre‑existing & maternity clauses |
Tip: Your “university plan” may be a bundle of two parts—(1) primary medical (UHIP/private) and (2) extended health & dental via the student union. Know which is which.
Costs in 2025: what to expect
- Provincial plans: Public plans charge little or no premium for residents; some provinces levy a specific monthly fee for international students (e.g., BC MSP international student fee). Amounts change—check the province.
- University/private plans: Commonly CAD $600–$1,200 per year for comprehensive medical; extended health & dental can add CAD $300–$600 per year (varies widely).
- Short‑term bridging (e.g., iMED 3 months): A few hundred dollars (school‑specific).
Money‑saving tips:
- Don’t double pay: If you become eligible for the provincial plan, ask your university how to reduce or opt‑out of the primary international plan while keeping extended benefits.
- Use campus clinics: Many waive fees or direct bill your plan.
- Annual vs per‑term billing: Know your opt‑out windows each term.
Step‑by‑step: choose the right plan (10‑minute method)
Confirm your province and school requirements
- Is provincial coverage available (and when)?
- Is a university plan mandatory by default?
Map your dates
- Program start, arrival, and expected MSP/AHCIP/RAMQ effective date
- Buy bridging coverage for any gap
List your needs
- Medications, mental health support, dental/vision, sports/club activities, travel
Compare primary medical options
- UHIP/guard.me/iMED/university plan vs provincial plan eligibility
- Emergency limit, pre‑existing stability clause, direct billing
Add extended health & dental
- Prescriptions, dental check‑ups, vision allowance, paramedical sessions
Check dependents
- Spouse/children—add to provincial plan if eligible; otherwise family student plan
Verify travel coverage
- Outside province/Canada (co‑op terms, reading week, conferences)
Note opt‑out deadlines
- Student union and university plan windows each term
Save proof of coverage
- Letter/card for visa border checks, school registration, and clinics
Keep receipts & know claims steps
- Use mobile apps; direct‑bill clinics when possible
CTA:
- Check provincial eligibility and get a student plan quote now
Special situations (read this before you buy)
Pre‑existing conditions
- Many private student plans cover “stable” pre‑existing conditions (no change in meds or symptoms for a period). Read the clause; ask for written confirmation if unsure.
Maternity
- Some plans exclude routine pregnancy or impose waiting periods. If pregnancy is possible, prioritise plans with clear maternity benefits or secure provincial eligibility early.
Mental health
- Extended plans often include a set number of counselling sessions (in‑person or virtual). Confirm the session cap, per‑visit maximum, and whether a diagnosis/referral is needed.
Co‑op/internships and travel
- If you’ll work off‑campus or travel out-of-province (or abroad), check that your plan covers emergency medical and workplace injuries (WSIB/WorkSafe is separate).
Graduating/PGWP holders
- After you graduate, you may be eligible for provincial plans under worker/resident rules. Confirm timelines and don’t let coverage lapse between student and work permit stages.
Using your insurance in Canada (how it works day‑to‑day)
- For emergencies, call 911 or go to the ER—show your provincial card or student insurance card
- For non‑urgent care, use a campus clinic or local walk‑in clinic
- For referrals, many specialists require a physician’s referral—your plan may also require pre‑authorisation for imaging or elective procedures
- Pharmacies: Bring your card; the pharmacist will bill your drug plan if included; otherwise pay and claim
- Keep copies of lab requisitions, invoices, and receipts; submit claims via the insurer’s app/portal
Common mistakes (and easy fixes)
- Missing the MSP/UHIP/RAMQ enrolment window: Apply as soon as you have your study permit and address
- Skipping bridging cover: In BC (and other provinces with waiting periods), buy short‑term cover for your first months
- Opting out incorrectly: Only opt out of the university plan if you have equivalent proof; keep extended benefits if you still need dental/vision/drugs
- Assuming travel is automatic: Many plans limit or exclude international travel—add it if you’re leaving Canada
- Not adding dependents: Spouses/children must be added separately—deadlines apply
- Ignoring pre‑existing/maternity clauses: Read stability periods and waiting periods carefully
Mini‑comparison: what to look for in student medical plans
| Feature | Why it matters | What “good” looks like |
|---|---|---|
| Emergency medical limit | Protects against large hospital bills | CAD $1–5M per policy year |
| Pre‑existing condition clause | Determines if your existing condition is covered | Clear “stable” definition (e.g., 90/180 days) |
| Direct billing | Avoids paying upfront | Wide clinic/hospital network |
| Mental health | Access to counselling | 4–10+ sessions/year; virtual options |
| Rx & paramedical | Everyday care costs | Useful annual allowances (Rx + physio/chiro) |
| Repatriation/evacuation | Big‑ticket emergencies | Included, reasonable limits |
| Travel outside province/Canada | Co‑op, field trips, holidays | Automatic short‑trip coverage (e.g., 15–60 days), or low‑cost add‑on |
| Family add‑on | If you bring dependents | Transparent premiums and benefits for spouse/children |
Budget planner (illustrative)
| Item | Typical range |
|---|---|
| Provincial plan fees (if any) | Province‑set (verify current amount) |
| University/private medical plan | CAD $600–$1,200 per year |
| Extended health & dental | CAD $300–$600 per year |
| Bridging (first ~3 months in BC) | A few hundred dollars |
| Out‑of‑pocket (copays, non‑covered) | Varies—keep a small emergency fund |
Money‑savvy moves:
- Use campus discounts (dental clinics, student glasses packages)
- Fill 90‑day prescriptions if your plan allows it (saves per‑script fees)
- Choose direct‑billing providers from your insurer’s list
FAQs: Best Health Insurance for International Students in Canada (Schema‑friendly)
Q1: Do international students get free health insurance in Canada?
A1: Not automatically. Some provinces cover international students under their public plan (e.g., BC, Alberta, Saskatchewan, Manitoba—rules vary). In Ontario, OHIP doesn’t cover international students; UHIP is the primary medical plan. In Québec, RAMQ may cover students from countries with reciprocal agreements. Always verify your province’s current policy.Q2: What is UHIP?
A2: The University Health Insurance Plan is mandatory primary medical coverage for most international students in Ontario. It covers medically necessary services similar to provincial plans. You’ll still need extended health & dental from your student union for prescriptions, dental, and vision.Q3: I’m studying in BC. Why do I need two plans?
A3: New arrivals face a waiting period before MSP starts. Schools like UBC give you iMED (a short‑term plan) for the first ~3 months. Once MSP kicks in, iMED ends and MSP becomes your primary cover; your student plan continues for extended benefits.Q4: How much does student health insurance cost in Canada?
A4: Expect roughly CAD $600–$1,200 per year for a comprehensive student medical plan, plus CAD $300–$600 for extended health & dental. Provincial plan fees (if any) are set by the province. Bridging coverage adds a few hundred dollars for the first months where required.Q5: Can I opt out of my university’s plan?
A5: Usually only if you show proof of equivalent coverage (e.g., RAMQ in Québec, MSP + substantial private plan). Extended health & dental opt‑outs have strict deadlines; miss them and you’ll be charged for the term.Q6: Are pre‑existing conditions covered?
A6: Many private student plans cover pre‑existing conditions if they’ve been “stable” for a set period (e.g., 90/180 days). Definitions differ—check the stable clause and ask your insurer in writing.Q7: Does my plan cover travel outside Canada?
A7: Not always. Provincial plans have limited out‑of‑country coverage; many student plans include short‑trip travel medical. Verify your trip length limit and add extra coverage if you’ll travel longer.Q8: How do I add my spouse/children?
A8: Provincial eligibility for dependents varies. If they’re not eligible for the province, you can often add them to your university/private student plan for an extra premium. Do this as soon as they arrive—deadlines apply.Pick the right coverage, avoid costly gaps
The best health insurance for international students in Canada depends on your province and program length. First, check if you qualify for a provincial plan and when it starts. Then choose the right university/private plan for any waiting period and keep extended health & dental for prescriptions, dental, vision, and mental health. Add dependents promptly, know your opt‑out windows, and save every receipt. With a clear plan and the steps in this guide, you’ll be covered from day one—without overpaying.