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The Best IEC Travel Insurance for 2023 (now called IEC health insurance)

By Jordana Weiss

Posted on April 13, 2023

Updated on July 3, 2024

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Share article, have you ever wanted to explore canada for a few years without the stress or hassle of applying for long-term residency international experience canada (iec) is a program offered to young people and working professionals around the world that gives them the chance to work in canada for up to two years..

During the 2023 season, Canada expects to admit up to 90,000 newcomers under this work permit category.

Want to apply during the 2023 season? All you need to do is receive an invitation, fill in the online application , organize your supporting documents, and purchase IEC health insurance (previously called travel insurance).

There are three categories you can apply under:

• Working holiday: A successful application under this category results in an open work permit for up to two years (duration varies by country of citizenship). You don’t have to have a job offer to apply.
• Young professionals: If you already have a professional job offer, you may be eligible to apply for this category. You must be doing paid work, and you would have to stay with the same employer throughout your stay in Canada.
• International co-op: This category is open to students who already have a job offer for a work placement they need to complete as part of their education.

Regardless of which category you apply under, anyone coming to Canada on an IEC work permit in 2023 must be able to show proof of health insurance that covers the duration of their visit. Without it, you will either be turned away at the border or given a modified work permit that covers you only until your insurance expires.

Since providing proof of insurance is so essential to your IEC work permit, we’ll explain the details you need to know to ensure you get the right coverage.

Do you have IEC health insurance?

What iec insurance do i need for my working holiday.

First, let’s talk about what you should know when shopping for IEC travel insurance.

In the past, the Government of Canada referred to insurance for IEC work permit holders as ‘IEC travel insurance’. However, since the requirements for IEC insurance focus primarily on health insurance coverage, the language around this has changed. Now, the Government uses the term ‘IEC health insurance’ in its official messaging.

In recent years, the terms ‘IEC travel insurance’ and ‘IEC health insurance’ have been used interchangeably by applicants and insurance providers.

What Should IEC Travel Insurance Cover? (now called IEC health insurance)

Regardless of what you call it, the actual requirements for IEC insurance have not changed. Any entrant into Canada with an IEC work permit (regardless of category) needs to have insurance that covers :

• Medical care
• Hospitalization
• Repatriation

The repatriation coverage must include benefits that can:

• Return you to a facility in Canada or your home country to seek medical treatment
• Repatriate your remains if you were to pass away while in Canada

This coverage must be valid for the entire time you plan to be in Canada. If you plan to be in Canada for the full two years that your work permit is valid, you may need to buy two consecutive plans. However, both must be purchased before you enter Canada.

If you cannot show verifiable proof that you have purchased adequate IEC health insurance, you may be refused entry at the border.

If you arrive at the border with insurance that falls short of your required dates, the border official may simply issue you a work permit that expires on the same day as your insurance. To avoid having your co-op or working holiday cut short, ensure your insurance covers you for the same time as your work permit.

When to Buy IEC Insurance

To avoid not having enough insurance or paying for insurance you aren’t using, the Government of Canada recommends buying insurance for your IEC work permit after you get your port of entry (POE) letter of introduction but before you leave for Canada.

Where Should I Buy IEC Working Holiday Visa Insurance?

Now that you know what type of insurance you need for your IEC work permit, you can start comparing options from some of the most popular insurance providers. Here are a few tips you should keep in mind when comparing IEC insurance plans.

1. Look for plans that cover a wide variety of activities

Going to be taking advantage of Canada’s beautiful scenery and doing outdoor activities like skiing, snowboarding, kayaking, or rock climbing? Read the fine print of your plan, and ensure you’re protected even when enjoying more adventurous activities.

2. Examine the plan’s provisions for travel outside of Canada

Some insurance providers do not permit you to travel outside of Canada while on their IEC insurance plan, while others allow limited visits abroad. If you want to leave Canada at all while on your IEC work permit, make sure you’re aware of these details in your insurance plan.

3. Ensure pre-existing condition coverage if necessary

If you have a pre-existing condition, it’s essential to ensure it qualifies for coverage under your insurance. You never want to wait until you have to visit a doctor or the hospital to learn these critical details.

4. Learn how claims are paid out

Some plans only reimburse claims after the subscriber has paid them, while other providers deal with the claims directly. Depending on your willingness to navigate the Canadian healthcare system and the insurance claims process, you may want to opt for one over the other.

Find the Best IEC Travel Insurance at BestQuote

There are lots of insurance providers that can help you find IEC working holiday visa insurance that fits your needs and your budget.

We advise working with BestQuote Travel Insurance Agency for your IEC travel insurance in 2023. They’re a skilled insurance agency in their own right, but what’s better is that they also allow you to compare plans from different insurance providers. This helps you feel confident you’re getting the best policy available.

Want to see for yourself? Check out the options from BestQuote here .

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Best IEC Travel Insurance: Our Best Travel Insurance for Canada 2024

By: Author Sunset Travellers

Posted on Last updated: January 12, 2024

Categories Canada , Travel

In this post, we cover the Best IEC Travel Insurance: Our Best Travel Insurance for Canada – IEC Working Holiday Insurance.

If you’re moving to Canada under the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, you NEED to take out the right IEC health insurance policy.

After you receive your POE (point of entry) letter, it’s time to find the best travel insurance for Canada. Trust us, we spent a few weeks researching and trying to find the best one. So, having spent two years on our own IEC visa in Canada, we decided to share our travel insurance recommendations so you can pick the best option for you. 

So, what is the best IEC Travel Insurance you recommend? 

Loved these views in Vancouver!

You can read further down about why we chose these companies and what the guidelines are from the Canadian government. Based on all the important factors, we have found these companies to have the best travel insurance for Canada: 

• True Traveller (for Europe  and UK residents)
• Fast Cover insurance   (for Australian residents)
• BestQuote Travel Insurance   (for all nationalities, pre or post-departure)

There are a lot of companies out there which can make things quite hard when choosing the appropriate travel insurance for your Working Holiday Visa in Canada. Depending on the country you are from, your IEC visa might be approved for one or two years. For example, Steve has received a two-year work permit with an Irish passport. Sabina, with a Polish passport, was able to receive a work permit that was valid for one year only.

But thankfully, I have dual citizenship and got approved for a second IEC visa with my other passport. Otherwise, I was unable to stay for two years with Steve in Canada.

We have used these companies not only personally but also in our IEC Facebook group .

Navigating Insurance Requirements for the 2024 IEC Working Holiday:

Understanding the correct insurance for your 2024 IEC Working Holiday in Canada can be a bit perplexing. In the past, even the Canadian Government referred to the necessary coverage as ‘travel insurance’ in its communications with IEC applicants. This terminology led many insurance providers and information sources to promote travel insurance policies specifically for IEC participants.

However, the Government’s recent communications have shifted to a more precise term: IEC health insurance. This change aligns more closely with the actual requirements, as the essential coverage you need is health-related, not just general travel insurance. We’ll delve into the specifics of this coverage in the following section.

Despite this clarification, some insurance providers might still market their policies as IEC travel insurance. But, often, these policies are essentially health insurance. It’s crucial, therefore, to thoroughly examine any policy you’re considering to ensure it meets the specific health coverage requirements for your IEC Working Holiday.

This is why we worked hard to double-check with these companies that they are acceptable as the IEC travel insurance. 

So, if you are coming from: 

True Traveller Insurance

A favourite (and the one we used!) among Europeans for the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, including the Working Holiday initiative, True Traveller stands out for its comprehensive coverage. Our IEC-specific insurance not only meets but exceeds IRCC requirements, encompassing medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation. Trust True Traveller for your IEC journey – get your quote today!

BestQuote , a premier Canadian travel insurance broker, offers an extensive range of travel insurance options tailored for visitors to Canada. Our plans, which can be obtained either before or after departure, may cover health-related needs, extend up to 24 months, and even include pre-existing medical conditions. Secure your peace of mind with BestQuote’s comprehensive travel insurance plans – get your quote now!

Australia And New Zealand IEC insurance cover 🦘 :

Fast Cover(AUSTRALIA ONLY) is the go-to insurance provider for Australian participants in the International Experience Canada (IEC) program. Catering to your travel needs in Canada, we offer flexible policies for both 12 and 24 months. Our diverse range includes everything from basic medical to comprehensive coverage, as well as specialized options for snow sports and adventure activities. Travelling as a couple or with a friend? Our Duo policies offer a 5% discount for pairs. Start your Canadian adventure with confidence – get a quote from Fast Cover today.

BestQuote (NZ + AUSTRALIA) works for Australians as it is a premier Canadian travel insurance broker that offers an extensive range of travel insurance options tailored for visitors to Canada . Our plans, which can be obtained either before or after departure, may cover health-related needs, extend up to 24 months, and even include pre-existing medical conditions. Secure your peace of mind with BestQuote’s comprehensive travel insurance plans – get your quote now!

Rest of the world:

BestQuote is a premier Canadian travel insurance broker that offers an extensive range of travel insurance options tailored for visitors to Canada . Our plans, which can be obtained either before or after departure, may cover health-related needs, extend up to 24 months, and even include pre-existing medical conditions. Secure your peace of mind with BestQuote’s comprehensive travel insurance plans – get your quote now!

The International Experience Canada website states the following requirements:

For an iec working holiday visa in canada , you must have health insurance for the entire time you are in canada..

Therefore, we both needed 24-month insurance for Canada.  If we were to get travel insurance for Canada for any shorter period than our intended stay, we would have received a work permit only valid until our insurance is. 

This rule applies to everyone.

It is very important to get the appropriate travel insurance for Canada.

If you get asked at the border for proof of your travel insurance, make sure that it is valid for the entire duration of your intended stay.

Many people get only six months or one year of insurance and receive shortened work permits. When choosing the best travel insurance for your IEC visa in Canada, make sure that it also covers all the government requirements . 

As per the IEC rules , health insurance must cover you for the following:

• medical care
• hospitalisation and
• repatriation (returning you to your country in the event of severe illness, injury or death).

If you go to Canada without appropriate IEC travel insurance,   your work permit might be shortened and/or you might be refused one entirely. 

A note from the government website :

“ We recommend you buy this insurance only after you receive your port of entry (POE) letter of introduction. We can’t recommend specific insurance companies or plans, but you can search online for something that meets your needs. You may be refused entry if you don’t have insurance. If your insurance policy is valid for less time than your expected stay in Canada, your work permit may expire at the same time as your insurance .”

Provincial Canadian healthcare or medical cover from your employment typically does not cover repatriation costs.

After you land your dream job, it takes time to get enrolled in the healthcare system, and there’s usually a cool-off period. 

Therefore, you need to get separate 2-year travel insurance for Canada.

Don’t make the mistake of thinking you will be fine without one. We personally know a few people who decided to get the most basic insurance and ended up in a hospital with a broken bone and a huge medical bill to take care of. Many companies have policies built especially for the IEC visa, but it is essential to find the best travel insurance for Canada suitable for you.

We had to do our research based on several criteria and important inclusions.

What is the best IEC travel insurance?

That great feeling when you are fully insured!

Great question!

Depending on where you are travelling from and what you want to do in Canada, there will be certain criteria you might be looking for. 

Based on all the important factors, we have found these companies to have the best travel insurance for Canada: 

There are a lot of companies on the market, but based on our own experience and friends’ recommendations, these are the best companies to go with. 

When choosing your coverage, there are a few important questions you need to ask the insurance company before buying your 24-month travel insurance for Canada.

Let’s face it: 24 months is a LONG time, and you don’t want to pick the wrong company! 

Buying the best travel insurance for Canada

Along with the Canadian government rules, there are a few different things you might want to consider when choosing your insurance. 

To put it simply, these are the most common things you want to check before buying IEC travel insurance:

• What is the level of my coverage?

 If you are planning to hit the slopes or go hiking or kayaking, make sure that your insurance covers you. Most insurance companies will have an additional premium for covering you for extra activities. Who knew that cage shark diving isn’t included in the basic cover!? 

• Am I covered for trips outside of Canada? 

Travelling to the US, Central America, or any location outside of Canada might not be covered by some companies. If you are planning to explore the world, check if the places you are heading to while in Canada are covered. BestQuote has options to include trips outside of Canada to the USA, Mexico or elsewhere. 

• What is your policy if you wish to take a  trip back home for a holiday? 

Some insurers have a limit on trips to your home country, others only allow a couple, and some enable unlimited trips back and forth. Whether you plan to stay in Canada or visit home regularly, find out how your insurer covers you for home visits.

True Traveller , for example, allows you to go home as many times as you like! 

• Is there any excess?

You need to know how much you have to put out of your pocket to make a claim. The best coverages are no excess ones- but usually, you will have to pay a bit more for these.

• Are your items and luggage covered?  

It is critical for the company to cover you in case of luggage delay, bags lost by the carrier in transit (it happens!), stolen luggage, stolen passports etc.

• Are you covered for activities like winter sports? 

While we didn’t plan on snowboarding when we first landed in Vancouver, we were glad we opted for the additional cover when we decided to try snowboarding. We ended up doing a whole winter season in Whistler, and True Traveller completely covered us! You might also want to hike the Rocky Mountains , so make sure to get the right cover.

• Whether the policy can be started abroad if you are already travelling elsewhere.

Most insurers are limited to only covering those who haven’t left home yet.

• How do I contact the insurance company in case of an emergency in Canada and abroad?

Save the phone number on our phone as soon as you purchase your coverage.

So what are the best two-year IEC travel insurance options and why?

Relaxing again because kayaking is included in your policy.

Before you get overwhelmed with contacting every travel insurance company asking the above questions, we have done the hard work for you. 

If you prefer to do your own research, remember that buying the cheapest travel insurance for Canada usually isn’t a good idea.

Cheap insurance will have a lot of coverage limits, and keep in mind this is the next two years of your life! 

The best travel insurance options for Canada

Flying high over Toronto!

True Traveller – Available for EU citizens (including the UK)

These guys have been incredible, and we have continued to use them as we travel around the world. They offer you not only unlimited trips home but also fantastic coverage.

Travel insurance policies with True Traveller are available for up to 24 months, which covers you for the entire duration of your visa!

Winter sports coverage is available, and there are no minimum residency requirements.

You can claim while you’re still in Canada, as there is no need to wait to return home.

True Traveller covers you for over 92 activities on their standard cover.

These include bungee jumping, horse riding, safari touring, scuba diving to 18 meters and lots more activities you may end up doing on your trip.

For those extreme travellers out there, you can easily add more options at very reasonable prices.

We both used them for our 2-year IEC travel insurance and always recommended them to others.

We found True Traveller, the best and cheapest IEC insurance for Canada from Europe .

Get a quote here for your IEC travel insurance.

“Oh, so you went with Fast cover to!? Woo”

Fast Cover – Available for Australians

Our family, friends and many other people we met who have come from Australia went with Fast Cover.

They offer initial cover for 12 months but then it can be easily extended for another 12 months on the day of departure.

This totals the full 24 months needed for the IEC working holiday for Australians.

You simply purchase the first 12 months of travel insurance, and then you can log in and purchase the next 12 months.

Simply log in to the ‘Your Policy’ section of their website and extend it up to the full two years. 

They also allow unlimited trips home, and it is not necessary to have a return ticket home in order to submit your claim.

Winter sports cover is also available, and their basic cover includes a whole host of activities! 

Also worth noting is that their Ski & Snowboarding cover is one of the best we have ever seen!

They even include off-piste activities, which are often not included. 

  Fast Cover policies also include 24-hour overseas emergency assistance for IEC travellers.

Whale watching in Vancouver!

BestQuote Travel Insurance

With BestQuote , you can view and compare the best insurance options available for your IEC visa.

We really like them as their website is very clear and you can easily view and compare insurance prices, benefits, refund policies and much more. 

Simply start your quote by:

• choosing the dates of your intended stay in Canada,
• adding any additional countries, you wish to visit 
• indicating the number of travellers included in the cover
• adding dates of birth 
• filling your email address

And your quote will appear instantly!

BestQuote Travel Insurance also offers several IEC policies that allow for up to two years of coverage.  

Whether you are from Ireland, Australia, the UK, France, Portugal or New Zealand (max 23 months), you can get covered for the two years of your IEC visa. 

The BestQuote policy is issued through Lloyd’s Underwriters and has been specifically designed for IEC travellers (which means peace of mind for you).

With BestQuote, you get the required health and repatriation benefits.

They also include basic skiing/snowboarding cover and allow unlimited trips outside of Canada for up to 35 days. 

Final tips for Working Holiday Insurance for Canada ( th e small print)

Finding travel insurance for canada.

While we have used most of the companies above, it is always worth spending that little bit extra just to read the fine print.

It is important to pick the IEC travel insurance provider and policy that is right for you. 

As we mentioned above, you will be with them for the next 12 to 24 months, so it is worth spending that little bit of extra time to read through everything. 

Please always double-check cover details directly with your insurance policy provider, as any of the above information may change at any time. 

Thank you so much for reading, and if you have any questions at all, please reach out to us!

You will also find a great selection of useful links and discounts on other services below: 

Other useful links for your IEC visa:

Booking.com – This is the perfect  alternative to Airbnb when you need a short place to stay.

Hostelworld –  If you need a cheap place to stay where you can meet other travellers, Hostelworld is the best.

OFX – Another great money transfer company for larger transfers. We usually use them for larger sums. Follow the link for free transfers for life.

CurrencyFair – Our favourite money transfer company. They are 8x cheaper than banks. Follow the link for 10 free transfers with CurrencyFair.

Best Quote  and TrueTraveller – The best travel insurance companies on the market! We personally used them both and can highly recommend them.

Taxback.com –  Every time we have to do our taxes or claim Superannuation, we use these guys.

Sendmybag – The best  company to ship your excess luggage to and from Australia. Follow our link for a 5% discount on your shipment.

If you need more info on moving to Canada, make sure to check out our Canada posts here .

Like what you are reading? Pin the image below!

Thanks for stopping by

Steve and Sabina

Sunset Travellers

Sunday 13th of October 2019

Thanks a lot for letting us know!

Gerphil Galleto

Good day! I already found a travel insurance company they said that if something happens on me at work in canada they can't cover anything that happened to me because of my work. Is this reasonable from Insurance company?

Hi Gerphil,

Travel insurance is not a health insurance. It's designed for emergencies only. Once you are in Canada you most likely will be able to get health insurance via your employer. Best of luck!

The Best Travel Insurance for Canada: IEC Working Holiday

The International Experience Canada (IEC) Working Holiday program offers young people the chance to live and work in Canada for up to two years. It is an amazing opportunity but there is a couple of rules to abide by when taking part in the IEC.

One of these is the program requirement to have comprehensive health insurance while in Canada.

This article will help you find the best travel insurance for Canada. I moved to Canada on the IEC program and I’ve helped thousands of people do the same since then.

Last updated June 2024. This post includes some affiliate links – if you make a purchase via one of these, we may receive a small percentage of the sale.

The importance of travel insurance for Canada

As mentioned, it is a mandatory part of the IEC program to have health insurance for the length of your stay in Canada.

If you go to Canada without appropriate IEC travel insurance,  you may receive a shortened work permit and/or be refused one altogether.

Those who do receive a shortened work permit are unable to extend or adjust the work permit later. This happens to more people than you would think!

As per the IEC rules , your health insurance for Canada must cover:

• medical care,
• hospitalization, and
• repatriation (returning you to your country in the event of severe illness, injury or death).

Be sure to buy the best travel insurance for Canada.

Taking part in the IEC program is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for most people – don’t waste this opportunity.

Thinking beyond the IEC requirement for insurance, you should also be aware that medical care in Canada can be very expensive.

Emergency room visits for relatively simple injuries can easily run up a bill of thousands of dollars.

Saving money on buying travel insurance for Canada can turn out to be an expensive mistake.

Options for IEC travel insurance

Read on for my research into the best IEC travel insurance for Canada.

Please research each company to ensure that the coverage is right for you. The specifics of the coverage can change at any time. Read the policy wording to make sure that you are covered.

UK and EU citizens – True Traveller

I used True Traveller insurance for my working holiday in Canada.

Travel insurance policies with True Traveller are available up to 24 months in length. Policies can be started if you are already travelling.

True Traveller’s policies allow unlimited visits home, with the insurance cover being suspended when in your home country. Winter sports coverage is available and there are no minimum residency requirements.

92 activities are covered as standard with True Traveller, including horse riding and bungee jumping. If you need coverage for more activities (such as rock climbing), an additional activity pack can be selected.

As of June 2024, True Traveller offers partial refunds for IEC participants who did not make any claims and return home after spending less than 12 months in Canada.

An alternative to True Traveller for UK citizens is Go Walkabout . Working Holiday cover is available for 2 years with 3 years available soon. Unlimited visits home are allowed with ski coverage available for an additional premium (Activity Pack 4).

Australian citizens – Fast Cover and HeyMondo

With Fast Cover , an initial IEC 12-month policy can be purchased and then extended for another 12 months on the departure date.

Optional winter sports coverage is available for an additional fee. Fast Cover policies cannot be started when already abroad.

HeyMondo offers single trip policies up to 12 months in length. Coverage for Covid-19 is included as standard as well as up to $10 million for emergency medical and dental expenses.

To have coverage for a full 24 month IEC working holiday, simply purchase 2 x one-year policies before leaving for Canada. For the second policy, you’ll need to tick the ‘already travelling’ box for it to be valid.

There is a 5% discount available for HeyMondo if you use the below link when purchasing. Note that HeyMondo does not offer winter sports coverage.

Alternatively, look at BestQuote (note lower medical coverage), Cover More (phone call required to buy a 2 year policy) or World Nomads.

New Zealand citizens – HeyMondo

HeyMondo includes coverage for Covid and up to $10 million of medical expenses. There is, however, no ski cover available.

For 23 months of coverage with HeyMondo, you’ll need to purchase a 12 month policy and then another 11 month policy. Make sure to tick the ‘already travelling’ box when purchasing the second policy.

Alternatively, look at BestQuote or World Nomads.

For citizens of 100+ countries – BestQuote

BestQuote are travel insurance specialists, partnered with some of the largest and most reputable insurance providers in Canada. Through them, it is possible to review, compare and purchase IEC specific insurance policies with up to 2 years of coverage.

There are various medical coverage amounts available, and adjustable excess levels as well.

Buying the best IEC Travel Insurance

There is not one perfect working holiday travel insurance policy for Canada. Everyone has different requirements and circumstances.

The best working holiday travel insurance for Canada is the one that suits your own needs.

Before purchasing travel insurance for Canada, you may want to check factors such as:

• The type of activities that are covered.  Climbing, kayaking and even hiking may have an additional premium
• Whether it is possible to return home for a short time and still have valid insurance coverage on return . Some policies become invalidated as soon as you reach home
• Residency requirements to purchase.  Some IEC travel insurance policies require a minimum time spent resident in your home country before purchase
• Whether the policy can be started abroad if you are already travelling elsewhere. Most insurers are limited to only covering those who haven’t left home yet
• Winter sports coverage options. Even if you do not plan to work a ski season or live in a mountainous area, things can change
• The excess (deductible) on the policy. This is the amount you have to pay when making a claim

Finding Travel Insurance for Canada

Canada’s IEC program offers some of the longest working holiday options available in the world.

For this reason, one of the biggest problems with buying the best IEC travel insurance is finding a company that offers two-year travel insurance for Canada.

It can be such a rare occurrence that some working holiday companies advise their clients that there is no such thing. This is absolutely not true. 

Another thing to remember is that the cheapest travel insurance for Canada may not be the best travel insurance for you. Be sure to look at the coverage limits and whether the policy is suitable for your travel plans.

Working Holiday Travel Insurance for Canada: The Small Print

Always read the policy wording to decide which IEC travel insurance provider and policy is right for you. As noted above, the best travel insurance for Canada isn’t necessarily perfect for everyone.

All details of IEC travel insurance providers mentioned above are correct at the time of writing but are subject to change.

The above companies also offer standard travel insurance for short-term holidays as well as working holiday insurance for Canada.

Found this post helpful? Subscribe to our IEC newsletter ! Working holiday advice and updates delivered straight to your inbox, with a  FREE printable IEC packing list  

Check out these other posts about working holidays in Canada

IEC Working Holiday Canada Extension Guide

IEC Working Holiday Canada: Arrival Checklist

Working Holiday Visa 2024 Canada IEC: Ultimate Application Guide

One half of the Canadian/British couple behind Off Track Travel, Gemma is happiest when hiking on the trail or planning the next big travel adventure. JR and Gemma are currently based in the beautiful Okanagan Valley, British Columbia, Canada

Sunday 14th of May 2023

Hey Gemma, we are NZ residents coming to Canada on an IEC, coming through the US first. We have insurance confirmed for the first 12-months of our travel. Ideally we want to book the second year of our insurance, however, our current insurance company won't do that - they will only extend near the end of our current policy.. Do you know any options for us that would provide insurance for that second year (i.e., provide a policy so far in advance). Alternatively, do you know if it is doable/easy to get our visas extended/updated once we are able to confirm a further 12-months of travel insurance? Hope this makes sense!! Thank you :)

Sunday 21st of May 2023

Hi Annelise,

For your first question, I would look at World Nomads or BestQuote (the latter mentioned in this article). For your second question, you MUST have 23 months of insurance on entry into Canada to receive your full 23 month work permit. There is no way to extend your work permit if you did not have the appropriate insurance on arrival in Canada OR apply again. So make sure you have the full 23 months before you arrive in Canada!

Tuesday 5th of November 2019

Hi Gemma! Currently helping my British fiance figure out flights since he has been accepted for IEC. A little anxious that he will not receive his full 24 month permit if we buy return flights (since return flights only go aprox. 10 months ahead). Should we just splurge and buy the stupidley expensive one way ticket, or can we purchase a round trip ticket and just not use the return ticket? Do the border agents even ask for a return ticket or do they just expect that we won't have one since its an open 24 month work permit? Do you think he would just be able to tell the border agent, if asked, that he does have a return flight 3 days after his arrival flight but plans to cancel it because it's cheaper, then proceed to show the agent proof of funds for a return flight?

Monday 11th of November 2019

The good news is that you don't need a return ticket at all, just proof to be able to purchase one if needed. And for that, a credit card can be shown. Hope that helps!

Thursday 16th of May 2019

Hi Gemma, the question I have, do you have to pay the one year insurance all upfront or is it possible to pay monthly? My travel insurance offered it and I am wondering now if this would be accepted.

Saturday 18th of May 2019

Hi Jessica,

It needs to be upfront, not monthly. A monthly policy can be cancelled at any time so hence is not proof of insurance for the entire length of your trip.

Wednesday 14th of June 2017

Hi Gemma I am going to Canada from New Zealand and looking for travel insurance options...and a bit lost. The link for 'Down Under Insurance' under New Zealand doesn't seem to work, even when I searched it on Google. Would you please be able to recommend a travel insurance company / companies for someone going from New Zealand for the full 23 month period? Thank you :)

Thursday 15th of June 2017

The link to Down Under insurance goes directly to the booking page. As mentioned in the description on my page, you will need to call them to purchase the 23/24 month IEC policy. Alternatively, you could also book 2 x 1 year policies with World Nomads who are also linked on this page.

Saturday 14th of January 2017

Hi Gemma, I have been granted an IEC visa, I want it to be valid for the two years but I don't want to necessary stay there for two years. The idea is I go for 3/4 months say, before returning home. However, I would like to keep my options open and be able to return to Canada in the two year period. I also don't want to be paying for insurance for the full two years if I am not there. I assume It's possible to enter and leave Canada as many times as I like during the two year period?

I applied on my U.K. Passport but I have been living in Australia as a resident, and have become an Australian citizen since being granted my IEC Visa so will be travelling from oz(my Australian address and residency was on my IEC application). So another option I am looking at is if it's possible to reapply on an Australian passport now I can obtain one, even thought I have been granted the IEC on my uk passport. The reason being is I have to enter Canada by end of June 2017, however I am still in two minds financially as paying off debts and it would be more suitable for me to leave at a later date(I was granted my IEC a lot quicker then anticipated). I will be 31 in November 17 so would have to apply by then with Australian passport.

Otherwise 3rd option is to go on a holiday before end of June to validate and get the two years granted and then return later(rather then quitting my job and going for 3/4 months as per option one), but again that will go back to my intial question on insurance options to get a visa for two years to come and go as I please, and also if it's possible to enter and re-enter during the two years.

Thanks for any input or advice. Sorry it's long winded but wanted to include all the facts. You run a great site and I have been finding your ebook on whv in Canada most helpful. :-)

Tuesday 17th of January 2017

Wow, a lot of questions! OK, let's see if I don't miss anything. You can enter and re-enter Canada with the IEC subject to normal entry requirements (i.e. it is not technically a visa and as such does not guarantee entry). The usual problem with entering and leaving is with insurance. Most insurance policies do not allow you to return to your home country for 10 or more days. Some do not even allow you to return at all without invalidating the policy. To receive the full 2 year work permit on arrival it is necessary to have 2 years insurance - if you do not, then you risk being given a work permit to the length of your insurance (or no permit at all if you don't have any insurance).

Australian insurance by the way (as in, coverage for Australians) is VERY expensive, much more expensive than insurance for UK residents/citizens. Be aware though that you may not be eligible for many UK insurance policies as you have not been resident there for a while.

It seems like you have two options -

Go to Canada before your POE expires, activate your work permit with two years insurance. If you need to go home directly afterwards, that is OK, provided your insurance provider allows it (as mentioned, not many do and only for a short time). True Traveller allows you to return home for an indefinite time period without invalidating your policy is True Traveller. With your living situation, they are also one of the few UK insurers that you may be eligible to get a policy with.

Second option is to apply for the Australian quota. I would do this before September as the pools closed in early autumn last year. You must receive an invite before your 31st birthday to be eligible.

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• American Summers

Work in Canada

Work in canada offers you the opportunity to combine work and travel in a different north american setting..

Spend up to 12 months living, working and traveling in Canada. Gain the international experience of working abroad without actually having to go overseas!

Americans who want to work or undertake an internship in Canada must apply for a work permit through a Recognized Organization in Canada. This is because there is no formal agreement between the USA and Canada. Our partner, SWAP Working Holidays, is the Canadian government Recognized Organization. The program is administered in America by IENA.

There are two work permit options, the Working Holiday Permit and the Young Professionals Permit. The Working Holiday permit is an Open Work permit allowing you to take any job in any Province. The Young Professionals permit is a suitable option for applicants with pre-arranged jobs or internships related to their professional development and is an employer-specific work permit (you can only work for one employer).

You choose the date you wish to enter Canada within your eligibility period and book your own travel accordingly. If you wish to take advantage of the free arrival orientation, you should make your way to the SWAP offices in either Toronto or Vancouver. However, you can be as independent as you choose and still have the knowledge that SWAP will be there throughout your stay to help you if needed.

Work in Canada Program Offers

• Free choice of arrival date into Canada.
• Pre-departure support from IENA, with many years of experience in administering international student exchanges at your disposal.
• Step by step instructions on how to apply for work permit approval as part of the International Experience Canada (IEC) initiative.
• Discounted, comprehensive worldwide travel insurance with $500,000 in medical coverage and $50 deductible per injury and insurance.
• After Hours Emergency Assistance: SWAP is there to help even after the office has closed.
• Social activities including sports events, pub nights and excursions.
• SWAP Hosting Centers in Toronto and Vancouver, job and accommodation listings, plus general advice from friendly, knowledgeable staff.
• Arrival Orientation packed with important information to prepare you for your stay. Advice on bank accounts, tax, applying for a SIN (Social Insurance Number) as well as practical information on job and accommodation hunting!
• Access to SWAP’s online job database that has listings of jobs available in British Columbia and Ontario.
• Free internet, Wi-Fi, and computer facilities, plus use of telephones and mail service.

Work in Canada Eligibility

Working holiday.

• Age 18 – 35 (inclusive).
• Be a US citizen (with a valid US passport).
• Have a clear criminal record.
• Have proof of support funds equal to at least CA$2,500 on entry to Canada.
• Have proof of adequate medical insurance (including personal accident and repatriation of remains) on entry to Canada in excess of CA$25,000 as you will not be covered by the Canadian socialized medical system while working in Canada. You can provide your own coverage or you can purchase insurance through IENA (View policy details )
• Not bring dependents with you to Canada on this program.

Young Professionals

• Have a pre-arranged job or internship related to your studies or professional development.
• Have a job/internship that meets National Occupational Classification (NOC) Code Skill Type Level 0, A or B
• Be paid (you cannot be self-employed).
• Work full-time (at least 35 hours per week).

You can participate in the program twice if you meet eligibility requirements (limited number of work permits available for second-time applicants)

Job Opportunities

Working holidays.

The Open Work Permit allows you to be legally employed in Canada for up to 12 months, anywhere, for any employer. However, to work in agriculture, childcare, health services or teaching, you are required to undergo medical clearance BEFORE entering Canada (this can be an expensive and lengthy process).

The type of job you can secure will depend on your qualifications and previous work experience. Most participants find casual employment in shops, bars, restaurants, ski resorts and hotels, but it is possible to find career related or professional work. The majority of participants seek employment once they have arrived in Canada and it takes on average 7 days to secure a job. If you intend to find a career-type position, you should start your job hunt before you go and be prepared to spend more time researching possible vacancies.

Traditionally there are 3 main areas which provide work opportunities: Ontario (Toronto), Alberta (Canadian Rockies for resort work) and British Columbia (Vancouver). If you are unsure about which area will suit you best, you should do as much research as you can. Have a look at a map and get an idea of distances and check out guide books such as Lonely Planet.

Your job or internship must meet National Occupational Classification (NOC) Code Skill Type Level 0, A or B. You should discuss your job title and NOC job code with your employer.   Search for your job title and appropriate job code .

Accommodations

Hostels, dorms, and homes.

Some jobs provide accommodation, but if yours doesn’t you’ll need somewhere temporary to stay until you sort out something more permanent. Youth Hostels, student dorms or tourist homes are your best bet when you first arrive in a town to start your job or look for work. During the summer vacation, halls of residence are often available to rent on an individual basis and normally provide a good standard of budget accommodation. Many Canadian students also go away for the summer months and are looking to sublet their apartments. Alternatively, look in the classified section of the local newspaper for apartments to rent or share. Accommodation agencies can be useful, but some charge a fee for their services.

Travel Information

What to see in canada.

Whether you work as you travel or work and then travel, you will probably want to see as much of Canada as possible. The wide-ranging diversity in culture and geography makes it a great destination for doing just about anything.

Why not explore one of Canada’s nine mountain ranges? The Canadian Rockies in Banff or Pigeon Spire located in Bugaboo Provincial Park in the Columbia Mountains or check out the Appalachian Mountains which were formed roughly 480 million years ago.

Lakes & Parks

Canada has over two million lakes – more than a thousand miles of white-sand beaches beckon visitors to Lake Winnipeg in Manitoba, the 10th largest lake in the world. For boating and fishing visit the Lake Champlain region of the Adirondack Coast.

For an outdoor adventure, check out one of Canada’s many national parks.

Cosmopolitan cities like Toronto, Vancouver, Ottawa, and Montreal boast excellent galleries, museums, theaters, and vibrant nightlife!

Interesting Facts

Interesting facts about canada.

• Canada has 6 time zones.
• Canada is home to the longest street in the world. Yonge Street in Ontario starts at Lake Ontario and runs north through Ontario to the Minnesota border, almost 2,000 km.
• Canada has the world’s longest coastline at 202,080 km.
• A bear cub named Winnipeg was exported from Canada to the London Zoo in 1915. A little boy named Christopher Robin Milne loved to visit Winnipeg (Winnie for short). His love for the bear cub inspired the stories written by his father, A.A. Milne, about Winnie-the-Pooh.
• Canada has twice been invaded by the USA, first in 1775 and again in 1812.
• Canada holds the record for the most gold medals ever won at the Winter Olympics, taking 14 Golds at the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics.
• Sandy Gardiner, a journalist with the Ottawa Journal in the 60s, coined the term ‘Beatlemania’ while he was writing a story about the Beatles.
• Canada was named through a misunderstanding. When Jacques Cartier, a French explorer came to the new world he met with local natives who invited him to their ‘Kanata’ (the word for ‘village’). The party mistakenly thought the name of the country was “Kanata” or Canada.
• Canada is home to approximately 55,000 different species of insects.
• Montreal is home to many beautiful churches and is often called The City of Saints or City of a Hundred Bell Towers.
• Ontario is believed to be home to the world’s smallest jail, which measures only 24.3 sq. meters.
• Canada’s only desert in British Columbia is only 15 miles long and is the only desert in the world with a long boardwalk for visitors to walk on.
• Canada is the second largest country in the world right after Russia.
• Canada’s lowest recorded temperature was -81.4 degrees Fahrenheit (-63C) in 1947.
• Canada has more lakes than the rest of the world’s lakes combined.

Application and Fees

Stage 1 of the application.

Please set up an IENA account and complete the online IENA Outbound Program application being sure to also upload supporting documents to your IENA account.

Supporting Documents Checklist

• Program reference or job offer (download reference form via your IENA account)
• Copy of passport bio page (the page with your photo and passport number)
• Insurance Declaration (download the declaration form via your IENA account)
• Young Professionals applicants – SWAP Young Professionals application (download via your IENA account)

When all documents have been uploaded to your account and your application is complete we will assess your application and then invoice you for payment of our program fee. After payment is processed you will be instructed to move to stage two of the application process.

Stage 2 of the Application

Apply for a Canadian Work permit via Citizenship & Immigration Canada (CIC).

IENA will provide complete step-by-step instructions and guidance for all stages of the application process.

Please apply at least 8-10 weeks prior to your intended date of travel to Canada. You are strongly advised not to book flights or make any travel plans before your work permit application is approved by the Canadian government.

Places on the 2023 program will be allocated on a first come first served basis to applicants with completed IENA applications.

Program Fees

The Working Holiday program fee is $1,375 and covers administration in America and Canada, use of hosting centers in Toronto and Vancouver for job and accommodation listings and program support.

The Young Professionals program fee is $1,375 and covers administration in America and Canada, use of hosting centers in Toronto and Vancouver and program support.

Other Costs to Consider

• Travel Insurance – You must show proof of adequate medical and accident insurance on entry to Canada. IENA can provide a policy with $500,000 in medical coverage and $50 deductible. Premiums start at $225.
• Support Funds in the amount of CA$2,500.
• Canadian Government fees Working Holiday permit CA$253/Young Professionals permit CA$153 (Both are subject to change by the Canadian government).
• Young Professionals Employer Compliance fee CA$230 (paid by employer)

Application Deadline: Please apply at least 8-10 weeks prior to your planned date of travel to Canada. It is strongly advised not to purchase flights or make travel arrangements before receiving your entry document to Canada.

Cancellation Conditions

The IENA Work in Canada program fee are non-refundable.

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Canada Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for canada: a guide for us travelers .

From exploring Banff National Park's breathtaking landscapes to experiencing Toronto's vibrant culture or the historic sites of Quebec City, Canada offers a wide range of popular locations and activities. However, before you dive into your adventure, there's a crucial detail to address: securing your travel insurance. 

Discover all the ins and outs of travel insurance for Canada in this guide.   We've got you covered with details on costs, requirements, essential coverage, COVID-19 restrictions, and some handy tips for your trip. 

What should your Travel insurance cover for a trip to Canada? 

How does travel insurance work for canada, do i need travel insurance for canada , how much does travel insurance cost for canada .

• Travel Insurance Requirements for Canada 

Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for US Visitors? 

Are there any required travel vaccinations for canada , traveling with pre-existing medical conditions , our suggested axa travel protection plan .

At a minimum, your travel insurance to Canada should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. Regarding international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage.   AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind.    

• Medical Coverage – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.    
• Trip Cancellation & Interruptions – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.   
• Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.   
• Coverage for Personal Belongings – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.   
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons.  Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders. 

In just a few seconds, you can get a free quote and purchase the best travel insurance for Canada.

Let’s say you’re exploring Ottawa's stunning architecture or skiing down Banff's slopes with AXA Travel Protection. If you were to fall ill or face an unexpected travel hiccup, AXA Travel Protection steps in to help support you. Whether assisting in medical transportation or finding the best alternative for a trip delay, AXA Travel Protection ensures you’re supported in your time of need.  

How AXA Travel Protection Can Benefit Visitors to Canada 

Here’s the entire list of benefits travelers can have access to with an AXA Travel Protection Plan: 

Medical Benefits: 

• Emergency Medical Expenses: Should you fall ill or have an accident during your trip, your policy may offer coverage for medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor's fees. 
• Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: In case of a serious medical emergency, your policy may include provisions for evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriation. 
• Non-Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation : In non-medical crises (e.g., political unrest), your policy may cover evacuation or repatriation, subject to policy terms.   

Baggage Benefits: 

• Luggage Delay: If the airline delays your checked baggage, your policy might offer reimbursement for essential items like clothing and toiletries. 
• Lost or Stolen Luggage: In the unfortunate event of permanent loss or theft of your luggage, your policy may offer reimbursement for its value, assisting you in replacing your belongings.   

Pre-Departure Travel Benefits: 

• Trip Cancellation: You may be eligible for reimbursement if you cancel your trip due to a sudden illness or injury. 
• COVID-19 Travel Insurance: Coverage is available for trip cancellation and medical expenses related to COVID-19, subject to policy terms and conditions. 
• Trip Delay: If your flight faces delays due to unforeseen circumstances, you may have coverage for additional expenses such as meals and accommodations.   

Additional Optional Travel Benefits:

• Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver): Exclusive to Gold & Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit gives travelers extra coverage on their rental car against damage and theft. 
• Cancel for Any Reason: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders; this optional benefit gives travelers more flexibility to cancel their trip for any reason outside of their standard policy. 
• Loss Skier Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate some costs associated with pre-paid ski tickets that you or your traveling companion cannot use due to specified slope closures. 
• Loss Golf Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate the expenses linked to prepaid golf arrangements that you or your travel companion are unable to utilize due to specified golf closures.   

Americans aren't required to purchase domestic or international travel insurance to visit Canada. But it’s still highly recommended to have a travel insurance plan before embarking on your next trip.  

Why? There are several reasons: 

• Medical Emergencies: Your health is a top priority. If you face a sudden illness or injury in Canada, travel insurance offers the means to receive prompt and quality medical care.    
• Lost Baggage: Airlines sometimes mishandle baggage, and the last thing you want is to be without essentials in an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance offers to cover the cost of replacing necessary items, allowing you to continue on.   
• Flight Delays: Travel disruptions like flight delays can happen. If you miss a connecting flight or incur additional expenses due to delays, travel insurance can help cover the costs. 

In general, travel insurance to Canada costs about 3 – 10% of your total prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses. The cost of travel insurance depends on two factors for AXA Travel Protection plans: 

• Total Trip cost: The total non-prepaid and non-refundable costs you have already paid for your upcoming trip. This includes prepaid excursions, plane tickets, cruise costs, etc.   
• Age: Like any other insurance type, the correlation is rooted in increased health risks associated with older individuals. It's important to note that this doesn't make travel insurance unattainable for older individuals. 

With AXA Travel Protection, travelers to Canada will be offered three tiers of insurance: Silver, Gold , and Platinum . Each provides varying levels of coverage to cater to individual's preferences and travel needs. 

Travel Insurance requirements for Canada 

Travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers coming to Canada, but having coverage for medical emergencies is a smart move. It's also worth checking if your visa, entry requirements, or tour operator call for extra coverage.   

As of October 2023, Canada has eliminated all COVID-19 entry requirements. However, it's crucial to be mindful of your health. If you develop COVID-19 symptoms before your trip, consider postponing your travel plans to Canada. Having Cancel for Any Reason as part of your travel insurance plan becomes invaluable in such a scenario. This optional benefit provides the flexibility to cancel your trip, even for a reason beyond standard coverage.   

Canada does not have specific vaccine requirements for travelers. However, due to COVID-19, travel requirements may change from time to time. Stay up-to-date on vaccine requirements and recommendations by consulting official sources such as the Government of Canada's website.   

Traveling with pre-existing medical conditions can complicate your plans, but with AXA Travel Protection, we're here to support you during your trip.   Our Gold and Platinum  plans offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.  The Platinum plan, in particular, is our highest-offered choice for travelers who want our highest coverage limits and optional add-ons, 

What does this mean for you? If you've got a medical condition hanging around, you can qualify for coverage under our Gold and Platinum plans with a pre-existing medical condition , so long as it’s within 14 days of placing your initial trip deposit and in our 60-day look-back period. We're here to ensure you travel easily, no matter your health situation.   

AXA presents travelers with three travel plans – the Silver Plan , Gold Plan , and Platinum Plan , each offering different levels of coverage to suit individual needs. Given that Canadian hospitals often do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare, we genuinely recommend travelers consider purchasing any of these plans, particularly for the crucial coverage they offer for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses.  

The Platinum Plan is your go-to choice if you're looking for extra coverage aligned with the Canadian experience. " Cancel for Any Reason " offers greater flexibility for those unexpected twists in your travel plans and the " Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver) " offers assistance when you're out exploring Canada's stunning landscapes in a rental car. 

Additionally, part of the Platinum Plan is the " Lost Skier Days " benefit, offering potential reimbursement if ski resorts unexpectedly close due to ever-changing snow conditions. These perks make the Platinum Plan an excellent option for anyone seeking comprehensive protection during their exciting Canadian adventures. 

FAQs about Canada Travel Insurance   

1. can you buy travel insurance after booking a flight .

Absolutely, travelers have the option to purchase travel insurance for Canada after they've booked their flights.  

It's advisable to purchase travel insurance for your trip as soon as you have made your initial trip deposit (prepaid and non-refundable trip costs.)   AXA Travel Protection offers coverage as soon as you purchase your protection plan. We can give coverage against unforeseen events before you leave for your trip.   Additionally, our policies offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions and Cancel for Any Reason if you purchase your protection within 14 days of making your initial trip deposit. 

2. Do US citizens need travel insurance to Canada? 

Travel insurance to Canada from the USA is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. While Canada’s healthcare system is fantastic, it might not cover all your medical expenses as a non-resident and medical bills can add up fast.  

3. What type of medical conditions does AXA Travel Protection cover?  AXA covers three types of medical expenses: 

• Emergency medical expenses 
• Emergency evacuation & repatriation 
• Non-medical emergency evacuation & repatriation 

Emergency medical expenses are unexpected incidents that arise, such as broken bones, burns, unexpected illnesses, and allergic reactions.  Emergency evacuation and repatriation can cover your immediate transportation home in the event of an accidental injury or illness.     Non-medical emergency evacuation and repatriation can cover evacuation assistance when you immediately leave a destination for non-medical-related events. These could be things like natural disasters or civil unrest.   

Disclaimer: It is important to note that Destination articles are for editorial purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional. Specifics of travel coverage for your destination will depend on the plan selected, the date of purchase, and the state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy. Contact AXA Travel Insurance if you have any questions.  AXA Assistance USA, Inc.© 2023 All Rights Reserved.  

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By Lisa Jackson

Best travel insurance in Canada

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You’ve packed your bags, mapped your itinerary, and set your “out of office” message – it’s vacation time! But what about travel insurance?

According to a 2024 study by Pacific Blue Cross ,  a British Columbia health benefits provider, 87% of Canadians recognize the risks of travelling without insurance, while 57% purchase a policy at least occasionally. However, younger generations remain rather hesitant about the need for this coverage when travelling abroad. Nearly half of Gen Z travellers (47%) who never purchase insurance say it is because they don't think anything anything bad will happen when vacationing. They also underestimate the actual cost of emergency medical care more than any other generational cohort. 

As a professional travel writer, I find this rather alarming. Canadian health insurance is not valid outside Canada, and your provincial or territorial health plan may not cover all the costs even if you’re travelling domestically. If you suffer an accident or get sick abroad, unexpected medical bills can bankrupt you. It’s why the Canadian government advises all travellers to buy travel insurance, and I never leave the country without it. Whether you’re taking a two-week trip or a spending a year abroad, every one needs the best travel insurance offered to Canadians, regardless of age, health status, destination or length of vacation.

Best for thrill seekers: World Nomads

Designed for adrenaline lovers with wanderlust, World Nomads insures a long list of adventure sports, activities and volunteer or work experiences, as well as sporting equipment delay/loss/theft. You also get access to a 24/7 hotline that provides information that adventure travellers may need including weather reports and travel advisories, assistance locating the nearest trail and finding a gear shop.

The standard policy covers emergency medical expenses up to $5 million, emergency dental, trip cancellation/interruption/delay, baggage delays/theft/damage and more. The downside: You must be under 66 years of age to qualify.

Best for families: CAA Travel Insurance

A long-trusted Canadian institution, CAA travel Insurance offers flexible travel plans to suit every type of traveller and vacation, but its policies are particularly great for families. The stand-alone emergency medical policy of up to $5 million in health coverage is extremely comprehensive, even including medical repatriation, emergency dental and reimbursements for pet care and kennelling.

The Vacation Package Plan provides full cancellation/interruption insurance – ideal for prepaid, all-inclusive vacation packages – and family transportation and escort of children during emergencies. Anyone can buy CAA travel insurance but members get a 10% discount.

CAA’s emergency medical plans also now include coverage for COVID-19-related illnesses for vaccinated customers. Coverage is up to $2.5 million if partially vaccinated and up to $5 million if fully vaccinated.

Best for seniors and retirees: Blue Cross

Blue Cross has been around for more than 70 years, and 1 in 4 Canadians utilize its travel insurance. The company's emergency medical covers up to $5 million. It has special “snowbird” travel insurance packages designed for Canadians who head to warmer climates each year, making Blue Cross ideal for retirees.

Part of the package is the Flight Delay Service, a free perk that provides a range of benefits if including exclusive coupons for access to lounges or hotels (depending on the length of the delay). Pre-existing conditions are generally not covered.

Best for budget travellers: Travel CUTS Bon Voyage Insurance

Starting at only $1.36 a day, Travel CUTS Bon Voyage Insurance offers very affordable travel insurance packages. Yes, it’s geared toward students (e.g., you can swap your travel dates at no charge due to an exam schedule conflict), but anyone between 15 and 50 years of age can purchase a policy.

The standard package includes hospital and medical up to $1 million, dental care, air ambulance evacuation, flight accident, accidental death or dismemberment and trip interruption/cancellation insurance. Adventure and extreme sports are also covered.

Best for Canadians with pre-existing medical conditions: Manulife CoverMe

Manulife CoverMe offers highly comprehensive Canadian travel insurance packages and You access to the TravelAid mobile app, which provides directions to the nearest medical facility and local emergency telephone numbers.

However, the stand-out feature is arguably TravelEase – a special policy designed to cover fully disclosed medical conditions. For travellers with pre-existing conditions, it insures a bunch of expenses for health services and transportation. It provides up to $10 million in emergency medical benefits – a unicorn in the travel insurance world.

Best for emergency medical assistance: Medipac Travel Insurance

Medipac is one of the only travel insurance companies out there that is staffed by their own team of trained medical professionals, via its Medipac Assistance hotline. The company's medical professionals are your first point of contact in an emergency medical situation. This service is also helpful for dealing with foreign medical systems and helping prevent unnecessary expenses when dealing with a large deductible.

Medipac offers several competitive features for their travel insurance plans, including no age limits, a claim-free discount and a 90-day stability period for most pre-existing conditions. If your pre-existing medical condition isn’t covered by a standard Medipac insurance plan, the company also offers personalized, underwritten insurance policies to help you meet your needs.

Medipac provides coverage for up to $5 million USD, including COVID-19, in addition to its other benefits. Additionally, most new clients may be able to save 3-5% in their first year with the company's Claim-free Advantage discount.

Best for frequent travellers: Allianz Travel Insurance

Touted as a world leader in the Canadian travel insurance and assistance industry, Allianz Travel Insurance is a major provider of travel insurance, corporate assistance, and concierge services. It seeks to help its customers find solutions to various travel-related problems. Allianz Travel has partnered with many reputable companies, including travel agencies, airlines, resorts, websites, event ticket brokers, corporations, universities and credit card companies.

Allianz Travel Insurance is a great choice for anyone looking for travel insurance. Its single-trip plans are perfect for those leaving home and visiting another destination (or destinations) before going back home. Its parent company, Allianz Global Assistance, has five plans to choose from, all offering different levels of protection and coverage.

Allianz Travel Insurance’s annual/multi-trip plans are perfect for both personal and professional travelers who take multiple trips in a year. It offers four distinct options to choose from.

Will my provincial insurance be valid overseas?

No! If you get sick or injured overseas, the Canadian government will not cough up a dime to cover your medical costs. Here are the sobering facts:

• Canadian public health insurance is not valid outside of Canada.
• Foreign hospitals can be extremely expensive and may demand payment before treating you.
• The Canadian government will not pay a Canadian’s medical bills for an illness or accident suffered abroad. You’re on the hook for footing the bill!

Will my provincial insurance work in another province/territory?

Flash your valid provincial health card in another part of Canada and you’ll likely be covered for some of the same services insured by your home provincial plan. This is because the provinces and territories (except Quebec) signed an agreement whereby the host province foots the bill for any medically necessary health care services and gets reimbursed by the home province later.

However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of the woods. Depending on your destination, a slew of other services may not be covered such as an ambulance, hospital transfer, prescription drugs, transportation back to your home province and procedures not currently approved by your home plan.

Additionally, since Quebec wasn’t a signatory to the interprovincial billing agreement, you’ll likely be charged for any medical bills incurred there. For this reason, it’s recommended that you buy extra travel insurance (or verify your  credit card’s travel insurance coverage ) to cover any uninsured health care services that may crop up during your trip.

What does the best travel insurance in Canada cover?

Every travel insurance policy is different and what’s covered depends on how much you’re willing to pay for coverage. Typical medical services that you can expect to be covered include:

• Emergency hospital and medical costs
• Ambulance and air ambulance costs
• Outpatient services
• Physician and laboratory costs
• Prescription drugs
• Direct payment to the hospitals and doctors caring for you
• Assistance with bringing a family member to your bedside
• Air ambulance or commercial repatriation home
• Return of your vehicle if you are ill and have to come home

Additional benefits may include:

• Trip cancellation for non-refundable monetary losses
• Trip interruption
• Baggage loss, rental car damage, out-of-pocket expenses
• Accidental death and dismemberment

How much coverage do I need?

Securing a policy with a $1 million as a maximum payable is a safe bet. But don’t just look at the numbers when choosing a policy – read the fine print. Every insurer has a list of situations in which coverage is not provided, otherwise known as “exclusions.” Check whether your provider includes coverage or has provisions for the following:

• Pre-existing medical conditions: According to the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers, a pre-existing condition is “something that happened (or started to happen) before you were insured.” Some policies may cover claims relating to pre-existing conditions that are “stable and controlled,” but read the definitions carefully. If you don’t declare a condition, the entire policy could be invalidated!
• Medical evacuation: Ensure the policy covers medical evacuation to the nearest hospital and/or to Canada, as well as the costs of a medical escort to accompany you to your final destination.
• Repatriation in case of death: On the grim side, ensure that your plan covers the preparation and return of your remains to Canada.
• Adventurous Activities: If you plan on engaging in “high-risk” activities on your trip, you may need to shell out extra money for a more comprehensive plan. Many policies don’t cover “risky” activities, such as skiing or snowboarding “out of bounds,” skydiving, scuba diving, white-water rafting, mountaineering or participation in any rodeo activity. To cover your bases, ask questions and get specifics before purchasing a policy.

You may have to pay more to have these things included, but a few extra bucks may be worth it for peace of mind.

Should I buy “a la carte” travel insurance or get a travel credit card with free insurance?

A credit card with travel insurance is always a good thing to carry in your wallet. The  best travel credit cards in Canada  usually cover everything from emergency medical costs to trip cancellation/interruption to flight delay to rental car insurance, which could save you a wad of cash.

The  Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card  has saved my butt a few times, and I’ve filed several travel-related claims through my card. I cancelled my trip to Portugal a few years ago due to a death in the family, and I got a full refund on my hotel deposit and flights for myself, my husband and my baby. It totally justified the $120 annual fee.

That being said, don’t rely on your credit card to take care of all your travel insurance needs. It usually includes a basic policy, meaning it offers low (or no!) travel medical insurance as part of the package. Like any travel insurance company policy, you’ve really got to read the fine print and understand the conditions of your policy to avoid sticky situations.

For instance, the Scotiabank Gold American Express ® Card requires a cardholder to have charged at least 75% of trip expenses to make a trip cancellation/interruption insurance claim. So if you book an all-inclusive vacation for $5,000 and then cancel due to illness, at least $3,750 must have been charged onto your AMEX to qualify for a claim. If you didn’t do that, you’re out of luck.

Conditions Apply. Visit here for the Scotiabank Gold American Express® Card to learn more. *See Card Provider's website and Card Application for complete card details, terms and current offers. Reasonable efforts are made to maintain accuracy of information.

Can I still purchase insurance if i’ve already started my vacation?

The short answer: most insurance providers won’t cover you after your departure date. However, a handful of insurers (such as World Nomads) will allow you to purchase a policy while already overseas. Just know that it can come with sky-high costs and/or conditions: World Nomads has a 48-hour waiting period before coverage kicks in. The bottom line? It’s always best to buy travel insurance before leaving the country.

Can I get travel insurance for part of a trip?

Some plans offer insurance coverage options that will allow you to customize your coverage, but you’ll have to research to find one that works for your unique circumstances. Alternatively, you could take out an insurance policy for each destination and/or segment of your trip.

For instance, you could get a World Nomads policy for the two weeks you’re scuba diving in Australia, followed by a basic Travel CUTS Bon Voyage insurance to cover a month-long trip to Europe. However, when you buy Canadian travel insurance, you must select a trip start and end date – meaning you must know the exact dates for travelling to those places.

Should I carry a printout of my policy with me at all times?

I recommend carrying the travel insurance card in your wallet and locking it up in the hotel safe with other important travel documents like your passport. But don’t rely totally on paper: Wallets get lost or stolen, luggage can be delayed or M.I.A. and papers are easy to misplace when you’re on the road. My advice is to send a copy of the policy to your email and save it on your iCloud or another storage system that can be accessed anywhere, anytime.

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Lisa Jackson is a freelance personal finance and travel journalist, editor, and blogger who contributes to various online and print media outlets in Canada and abroad, including The Globe & Mail, Toronto Star, Islands Magazine, Fodors, BRIDES, Huffington Post Canada, CAA Magazine, The Food Network, West Jet Magazine, NUVO Magazine, and many others. When she's not writing from her home office, she's busy globe-trotting to new destinations in search of her next story.

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Do I Need Travel Insurance When Travelling Within Canada?

Published: Sep 22, 2023, 10:13am

Table of Contents

How does health insurance work in canada, what is not covered by my ghip, what is not covered when travelling within canada, what travel insurance do i need for travelling within canada, where can i get travel insurance for travelling within canada, how much does travel insurance for travelling within canada cost, the bottom line.

Maybe you’ve heard the horror stories of people who have travelled to far-flung destinations, gotten sick or injured and been saddled with hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical bills. As a savvy traveller, you know it’s essential to have comprehensive travel insurance when going abroad, but what about a trip within Canada?

Whether you’re planning a month-long expedition across the country, a ski trip in Quebec or a leisurely tour of the east coast, if you think that your provincial health insurance will cover all your medical expenses while you’re in another province, think again.

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The Travel Industry Council of Ontario ( TICO ) recommends that Canadians should always protect themselves by purchasing medical insurance even when travelling within Canada. That’s because not all medical expenses are covered by your provincial or territorial government health insurance plan once you leave your home province or territory. Here’s what you need to know.

Canada has a universal health care system that provides public health insurance to any Canadian citizen or permanent resident. This is known as the Government Health Insurance Plan, or GHIP. Each province and territory has its own health plan; for example, in Ontario it’s called the Ontario Health Insurance Plan, or OHIP, and in B.C. it’s called the Medical Services Plan, or MSP.

In general, with public health insurance, you won’t have to pay for most health care services, including family doctor’s visits, lab tests, diagnostics including X-rays, and emergency medical and hospital services.

There are differences between provincial and territorial plans, so it’s important to know what your plan covers. For example, Manitoba Health covers up to seven chiropractor visits per year, while Ontario does not offer chiropractic coverage.

Here is list of provincial and territorial public health care plans:

• British Columbia Medical Services Plan (MSP)
• Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)
• Saskatchewan Health Services
• Manitoba Health
• Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)
• Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)
• New Brunswick Medicare
• Nova Scotia Medical Service Insurance (MSI)
• Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP)
• Northwest Territories NWT Health Care Plan
• Yukon Health Care Insurance Plan (YHCIP)
• Nunavut Health Care Plan

While Canada’s public health insurance plan is comprehensive, it doesn’t cover everything. While the particulars differ between provinces, the following are examples of services generally not covered by public health insurance:

• Cosmetic treatments and surgery
• Certain prescription drugs and vaccines
• Over-the-counter drugs
• Medical appliances
• Private nursing
• Additional charges for a private hospital room
• Services provided by paramedical health providers, such as chiropodists, physiotherapists, psychologists, dieticians, etc., outside of a hospital
• Some medical supplies, such as syringes
• Routine dental care, extractions and procedures

However, your province may offer publicly-funded drug plans for students, youth and/or seniors. Your employer may offer employment-related health insurance or you can purchase your own private health insurance plan to cover any coverage gaps.

Emergency medical insurance is a must-have for any out-of-province travel, even if you’re still in Canada.

In general, if you are travelling outside of your home province or territory and you don’t have supplemental travel insurance and you are faced with with a medical emergency, the following costs may not be covered:

• Treatment provided by a health-care practitioner, such as a physician assistant, nurse practitioner, chiropractor or physical therapist
• Prescription drugs
• Medical supplies
• Ambulance services, by ground or air
• Dental emergencies

Fees can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

Say you’re visiting Toronto from Winnipeg and you take a tumble down a flight of concrete steps. You’re taken by ambulance to the nearest local hospital and it’s discovered you fractured your femur. The ambulance ride alone will cost you. According to the Ontario Ministry of Health , visitors to Ontario who require ambulance services will have their costs fully covered only if:

• You are a visitor to Ontario from another province, and
• You are insured under your province’s health care plan, and
• A physician deems your ambulance service medically necessary, and
• You are transported between and Ontario hospital and a hospital in another province, or between two Ontario hospitals, and
• Your trip is for diagnostic or therapeutic services, and
• You are returned to the hospital of origin within 24 hours.

In all other cases you will have to pay a land ambulance service co-payment charge of $240. And if you need to be transported by air ambulance, you’ll be billed the actual cost. According to figures of Canadian hospital rates from August 2019 provided by Vancouver-based David Cummings Insurance Services, an air ambulance by helicopter in B.C. costs $2,746 per hour.

Most Canadian provinces and territories have reciprocal agreements with each other, except for Quebec, which means that if you are visiting Ontario from Nova Scotia and you need to visit the emergency department, the Ontario physician will bill their own provincial health care plan for insured services. The only exception is Quebec, where you’ll need to pay the health provider up front.

If you are required to pay out of pocket, you can typically submit a medical expense claim to your own GHIP when you return home. Keep in mind there may be a variation in billing rates between provinces and you could be on the hook for any difference.

Whenever you leave your home province, it’s important to get comprehensive emergency medical insurance in case of an unexpected illness or injury. In general, travel medical insurance pays for unexpected medical expenses during your trip, including:

• Ambulance services (ground and air)
• Physicians’ bills
• Hospital and operating room charges
• Diagnostics and lab tests
• Drugs and medication
• Emergency dental care
• Repatriation to your home province or territory
• Cost to bring a companion to your bedside if you’re hospitalized
• Childcare costs if you’re hospitalized
• Vehicle return if a hospitalization prevents you from returning your rental car

You can purchase travel insurance for travelling within Canada at the same place you’d buy travel insurance for any other trip. You can purchase travel insurance online, through a broker or a travel agent.

Some insurance companies, such as Scotia Travel Insurance , offer cheaper rates for travel within Canada. Others offer a bespoke Canada package. For example, RBC Insurance offers a comprehensive Travel Within Canada Package that offers emergency medical and trip protection for travel within Canada, while TuGo offers an Emergency Medical Within Canada package with $10 million in coverage.

Your travel credit card may also provide sufficient emergency medical coverage for trips within Canada. Before you leave home, check the fine print to ensure you’re properly protected.

The cost of travel medical insurance depends on several factors, such as your age, the duration of your trip, your destination and your health.

Using a sample quote of a 45-year-old healthy woman travelling from Toronto to Vancouver for eight days, here are some examples of the cost of emergency medical travel insurance:

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth spending that extra cash on travel insurance for a trip within Canada, consider it a small investment for extra peace of mind. Not having sufficient emergency medical coverage can ruin your vacation—and your bank balance.

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Fiona Campbell is a Staff Writer for Forbes Advisor Canada. She started her career on Bay Street, but followed her love for research, writing and a good story into journalism. She is the former editor of Bankrate Canada, and has over 20 years of experience writing for various publications, including the Globe and Mail, Financial Post Business, Advisor’s Edge, Mydoh.ca and more.

Courtney Reilly-Larke is the deputy editor of Forbes Advisor Canada. Previously, she was the associate editor of personal finance at MoneySense. She was also managing editor of Best Health Magazine and has contributed to publications such as Cottage Life and Blog TO. She currently lives in Toronto.

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We recommend you buy this insurance only after you receive your port of entry (POE) letter. We can’t recommend specific insurance companies or plans, but you can search online for something that meets your needs.

You may be refused entry if you don’t have insurance. If your insurance policy is valid for less time than your expected stay in Canada, you may be issued a work permit that expires at the same time as your insurance.

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