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CoverMe ® travel insurance for visitors to Canada

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Help cover emergency medical expenses while visiting Canada

Canada has lots to offer, including free health care but only for its residents. When you or your loved ones visit Canada, emergency medical expenses could leave you burdened with hefty bills. With Manulife CoverMe Travel Insurance for Visitors to Canada, you can get help covering unexpected medical expenses such as prescription drugs, dental, hospital, and healthcare practitioner services, so you don’t end up paying out-of-pocket.

Travel plans for Visitors to Canada

All plans meet the requirement of super visa for parents and grandparents. 

This plan helps protect you from emergency medical expenses, so you can focus on experiencing Canada.

• Covers up to the limit you select up to CAD $200K
• No medical questionnaires required
• No coverage for pre-existing medical conditions
• No age limit

Get help with covering the cost for medical emergencies in Canada —even with some pre-existing medical conditions.

• Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions that did not exist within 180 days prior to the effective date 1
• Includes dental, and accident death and dismemberment coverage
• Apply up to age 85

Our most comprehensive plan to help you from emergency medical costs, even if you have a stable pre-existing medical condition.

• Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions that have been stable 2 for at least 180 days
• Includes dental, and accident death and dismemberment benefits

Download a detailed comparison chart for visitors to Canada (opens PDF)

Why Manulife

Our Visitors to Canada travel plans are comprehensive and flexible – all have the following benefits:

• Access to Manulife’s Travel Assistance 24/7 – 365 days a year
• Receive a full refund if your plans change or get cancelled before the effective date
• Side trips are covered when you travel to another destination from Canada 3

Ready to buy?

You can get a quote and purchase Manulife travel insurance online through Manulife CoverMe.

Visitors to Canada travel insurance is highly recommended to prevent you from paying out-of-pocket for expensive health care services in case of a health emergency. Purchasing visitors to Canada travel insurance is mandatory if you are applying for super visa for parents and grandparents. 

It is best to purchase visitor to Canada insurance before your arrival. This is because if you purchase the insurance after you arrive, there is a waiting period. A waiting period is an amount of time that you need to wait after purchase or after your arrival in Canada before you’re covered.

Need assistance?

Want to talk through your options.

Have questions and want to speak to a licensed insurance advisor? We can help with that!

Submit a travel claim

Visit our dedicated travel portal to start a claim. First-time on the site? Simply register, activate your account, and sign in.

Explore other travel insurance products

Travel insurance for travelling canadians.

Explore out-of-province or country with less worry with coverage for emergency medical, flight cancellations and delays, and more.

Travel Insurance for Students

Get help with medical expenses when studying away from home – either in Canada or abroad.

1 No coverage is provided for pre-existing medical conditions that existed within 180 days prior to the effective date. For example, if your travel date and policy effective date is June 30 th , then any pre-existing medical conditions that existed between January 1 st and June 30 th are not covered.

2 A pre-existing medical condition is considered stable when all of the following statements are true:

• There has not been any new treatment prescribed or recommended, or change(s) to existing treatment (including a stoppage in treatment), and
• There has not been any change in medication, or any recommendation or starting of a new prescription drug, and
• The medical condition has not become worse, and
• There has not been any new, more frequent or more severe symptoms, and
• There has been no hospitalization or referral to a specialist, and
• There have not been any tests, investigation or treatment recommended, but not yet complete, nor any outstanding test results, and
• There is no planned or pending treatment.

3 A side trip is any trip taken to other countries from Canada (starts and ends in Canada) during the duration of your policy. Side trips do not cover your country of origin. Side trips must not exceed the lesser of 30 days/policy or 49% of the total number of coverage days in your policy.

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• Français fr

What type of insurance do I need for International Experience Canada?

For International Experience Canada , you must have health insurance for the entire time you are in Canada. The health insurance must cover

• medical care;
• hospitalization; and
• repatriation.

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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Answers others found useful

• Can I come to Canada before I receive my POE Letter?
• Can I change employers if I have an International Experience Canada work permit?
• Can I extend my International Experience Canada work permit?
• Can I stay in Canada as a tourist after my work permit expires?

How to video

Form and guide

• Application to work in Canada

Glossary term

• Work permit

Visitors to Canada Insurance

Emergency medical coverage and more.

Visit, work or study in Canada—with emergency medical and dental insurance for up to a year.

Get a Quote

Essential coverage for visitors, visitors plan iii.

Ages: 1 month to 69 years

• Up to $150,000 Disclaimer 1 in emergency medical/dental
• 24-hour worldwide emergency medical assistance
• No deductible payment required for claims

See More See Less

• No medical questions asked
• Coverage for a single trip lasting up to 365 days
• Coverage for travel accidents Disclaimer 2

Policy Documents:

For complete coverage details, limitations and exclusions, see:

• Visitors to Canada Plan Opens PDF in new window

Compare Plan Details

Visitors Plan II

Ages: 1 month to 84 years

• Up to $50,000 Disclaimer 1 in emergency medical/dental
• Low $50 deductible payment required for claims

Visitors Plan I

• Up to $25,000 Disclaimer 1 in emergency medical/dental

Make sure you have the right travel insurance—get an online quote or talk to a licensed insurance advisor.

View Legal Disclaimers Hide Legal Disclaimers

• Medical Plan
• Medical + Cancellation Plan
• Cancellation Plan
• Annual Medical Plan

Visitors to Canada Plan

• Seeking medical treatment
• How to file a claim
• Access Claims Portal
• Complaint resolution process
• Understanding travel insurance
• Choosing travel insurance
• Before your trip
• On your trip
• Travel Tips
• Get a quote online

Emergency Medical

Emergency medical transportation, meals and accommodation.

• Accidental Death and Dismemberment
• 24-Hour Assistance all over the world

Why buy a Visitors to Canada Plan?

When visiting Canada, your government health care plans might not travel with you. We know that health care costs in Canada can be expensive if you’re not covered under a Canadian government health insurance plan. Travel insurance from Allianz Global Assistance helps you stay protected during a medical emergency. Be sure to carry travel insurance to safeguard your finances and enjoy a worry-free trip. 

Visitors to Canada plans are ideal for:

• Tourists visiting Canada
• Super Visa applicants
• Landed immigrants and returning Canadians waiting for Government Health Insurance
• Temporary workers
• International students

For the complete list of coverage benefits including pre-existing medical conditions and exclusions under this plan, please view the  Policy of Insurance in PDF . (View the  accessible PDF version of the policy )

Our Promise to You:  All travel insurance plans offered by Allianz Global Assistance include a 10-day "Free Look" period. If you are not satisfied with your coverage after reviewing your Policy of Insurance, you may cancel your policy within 10 days from purchase for a full refund, provided you have not left on your trip or initiated a claim.

Main benefits

$25,000 | $50,000 | $100,000

Provides reimbursement for certain costs for a medical (including hospitalization) or dental emergency that occurs during your trip.

Medical Treatment for COVID-19

Provides reimbursement for emergency hospital and medical expenses up to the policy limit if you test positive while in Canada and require medical treatment for COVID-19.

Covers the cost of safe transport to the nearest appropriate medical facility to receive emergency care. Also includes return medical transportation to Canada for continuing care if required.

$150Day - Max. $1,500

Covers the cost of meals and accommodations if you and/or your travelling companion are delayed beyond your return date or are receiving medical attention.

Prescription Drugs

30 day supply - Max. $1,000

Provides coverage for drugs or medications related to a covered medical emergency that require a physician’s written prescription.

Accidental Death & Dismemberment

Sum Insured

Benefit for loss of life, limb or sight resulting from accidental injury that occurs during a trip, except while boarding, riding in, or departing from an aircraft.

24-Hour Assistance

Provides a 24-hour hotline and variety of assistance services in case you encounter an emergency during your travels.

Eligibility

Trip duration.

Up to 84 years old  

All coverage is subject to the limits, terms and conditions of the policy.

• Single-Trip Emergency Medical 1 of 5
• Single-Trip All-Inclusive 2 of 5
• Single-Trip Travel Canada Emergency Medical 3 of 5
• Trip Cancellation & Interruption 4 of 5
• COVID19 Pandemic Travel Plan 5 of 5
• Multi-Trip Emergency Medical 1 of 2
• Multi-Trip All-Inclusive 2 of 2
• Emergency Medical Top-Up 1 of 1
• Emergency Medical Plan 1 of 1
• Canadian Studying in Canada Outside the Home Province 1 of 3
• International Student Studying in Canada 2 of 3
• Canadian Studying Outside Canada 3 of 3

Visitors to Canada Plan Overview

Expecting family or friends from outside of the country or are you planning a visit to Canada?

Visitors who aren't Canadian residents are not covered by our government health insurance plans. That means visitors could end up facing significant out-of-pocket medical expenses if an illness or accident occurs while they're in Canada.

Travel Tip for Parent or Grandparent Super Visa Applicants:  A key requirement for a Super Visa application is to provide proof that you have a minimum of $100,000 private medical insurance from a Canadian insurance company in place. Our Emergency Medical plan can fulfill this requirement.

Plans at-a-glance

What is the age of the eldest traveller you would like to insure?

• 69 years old
• 85 years old

* Minimum age is 30 days.   

** Emergency Medical Insurance with a benefit amount of $100,000 or $150,000 is available to people applying for or holding a Parent and Grandparent Super Visa.

Emergency Medical Plans

Offers Visitors to Canada protection from the cost of emergency medical treatment.

Your choice of two plans to help meet their medical needs. You can also reduce your premium by choosing a deductible amount which you will be responsible for paying in the event of a claim

For more information on your contract or claim an insurance, contact us by:

• Email [email protected]
• Phone 1-855-440-9884 Customer Service. (toll-free in Canada or the United States) or 418-647-5476 Customer Service. (long-distance charges may apply). Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time)
• Mail Desjardins Financial Security 200, rue des Commandeurs Lévis (Québec) G6V 6R2

For assistance while on your trip:

• Canada and the U.S. 1-888-875-3228 Assistance Service.
• Collect 514-871-3228 Assistance Service.

Dissatisfactions and complaints

Not satisfied with a product or service? Please let us know:

Step 1: Ask for an explanation

Call Desjardins Insurance's 1 customer service team at 1-866-838-7584 Desjardins Insurance Customer service.

Here are some helpful tips:

• Have all of the supporting documents you might need on hand (policies, letters, etc.)
• Write down the names of the employees you speak with, along with the dates; this information will be helpful later on if you decide to file a complaint
• Include your name, address and phone number on all written communications
• If you're acting on behalf of someone else, you have to fill out the Authorization for the Collection and Release of Personal Information to Third Parties form (PDF, 140 Kb) .

In our experience, most issues are resolved at this stage.

Step 2: File a formal complaint with the Dispute Resolution Officer

If you don't agree with the results of the review, you can file a formal complaint with Desjardins Insurance's Dispute Resolution Officer. Simply use the form below:

Complaint form (PDF, 313 Kb)

Dispute Resolution Officer Desjardins Financial Security 200 des Commandeurs Lévis QC G6V 6R2

Toll-free phone number: 1-877-838-8185 Dispute Resolution Officer.

Toll-free fax number: 1-877-833-5985 Dispute Resolution Officer.

Email: [email protected]

1 Desjardins Insurance refers to Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company

About Desjardins Insurance 1

Desjardins Insurance, Desjardins Group’s life and health insurance subsidiary, has over 5 million clients. The number of people across the country who turn to us for our life insurance, health insurance and retirement savings solutions is growing by the day. And we are always true to our cooperative values, which means that we put people first. We are there for you—just pick up the phone:

Contact us:

• 1-866-647-5013 Desjardins Insurance. (Monday to Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., Eastern Time)

Desjardins Financial Security is registered with the Autorité des marchés financiers (registration number: 501207) under the name of Desjardins Financial Security, Life Assurance Company.

1 Desjardins Insurance refers to Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company.

How we collect, use and disclose information

We only collect personal information relating to you if you supply it to us voluntarily.

We are committed to protecting your personal information using appropriate security measures. To find out more about what we do to ensure your security, visit the Dialog box: Security section.

Our website uses cookies. While cookies enable the site to identify you as a specific user, they don't recognize you by your name or other personal information.

If you'd like, you can program your browser to refuse cookies. However, choosing this option may prevent you from accessing some of our services. To find out more about cookies, visit the Dialog box: Security section.

We may collect information for statistical purposes, such as to determine a page's popularity, the average number of pages accessed per visitor and the average time each visitor spends on the site. None of this information is linked to you as an individual visitor. We use this information only for verification purposes and to make improvements to our site.

Surveys and Contests

By completing a survey or entering a contest, you are choosing to share your opinion, response or other information. We may use this information in our survey results and post it on our website. In the case of contests, your entry will be used for the purposes of the draw only.

Management and protection of personal information policy

Since Desjardins Insurance was founded in 1948, significant and effective control measures have been put in place to protect the confidentiality of the personal information in our possession.

In order to offer quality financial services, we require access to medical, financial and family information. We manage this information with the utmost discretion and in compliance with Canadian statutory and regulatory requirements.

Desjardins Insurance is committed to managing and protecting your personal information:

Collecting personal information and creating a file for insurance purposes only

What is personal information.

Personal information is any information about an identifiable individual or any facts which, on their own or combined with other data, can identify an individual.

The personal information we have about you is kept in a file so we can offer you our insurance, annuity, credit and related financial services.

We collect only the personal information necessary for you to purchase insurance, in compliance with the law.

We always ask for your consent before we collect or disclose your medical information.

Retention, use and disclosure of personal information

We apply the necessary security measures to protect the confidentiality of the personal information in our possession. This means that only authorized individuals can access the personal information in the files and only when necessary in the course of their duties.

For more information, visit desjardinslifeinsurance.com

Unless you consent, or it is required by law, personal information in the files is never used for any purpose other than that for which it was intended.

Our client lists are only used or disclosed as permitted by law. We can use these lists to inform our clients of promotions or to offer a new product. If you would like your name to be removed from the list, contact our Privacy Officer at any time.

We won't disclose the personal information about you contained in the file to any third party, unless we receive written consent from you, or we are authorized by law to do so (for example, in the case of an inquiry by the officers of the court).

When personal information is sent outside of Desjardins Insurance, it is also done in a way that ensures that it remains confidential, even if you are the one who will receive the information.

Privacy Officer

The Privacy Officer:

• Responds to requests for access and correction
• Handles requests to remove names from contact lists
• Responds to complaints concerning the management and protection of personal information
• Manages inquiries regarding the disclosure of personal information to service providers located outside Canada

The Privacy Officer is also available to provide you with information or to answer questions about the management and protection of personal information.

Contact the Desjardins Group Privacy Office:

Desjardins Group Privacy Office 100 Rue des Commandeurs LEV-100-RC-Y Lévis, Québec G6V 7N5 [email protected]

Please include your name and contact information, the nature of your application, any relevant information, the Desjardins Group entity who you do business with and the name of the people you have already spoken with about this issue.

Changes to the policy

We reserve the right to modify this policy at any time.

Privacy policy

At Desjardins Insurance, we know the value you place on the security and confidentiality of your personal information.

That's why we've established privacy policies, guidelines and rules to ensure personal information is protected.

We cannot guarantee the confidentiality of information exchanged by email.

For security, verification or statistical purposes, Desjardins Insurance collects access data for this website and may consult communications sent to and from the site.

Desjardins Insurance is keenly aware of the need to protect your security and privacy, particularly in regard to any information you may provide to us.

Google Analytics

Desjardins Insurance uses Google Analytics on Desjardins Insurance websites (hereinafter "Sites") and Desjardins Insurance mobile applications (hereinafter "Applications"). The service is provided by Google Inc. (hereinafter "Google"). Desjardins Insurance uses first-party identifiers and third-party identifiers in conjunction with third-party vendors. Google Analytics uses cookies and other unique identifiers, which are anonymous identifiers placed on your computer material. They help Desjardins Insurance to analyze your use of the Sites and Applications. The traffic data collected through cookies and other unique identifiers particularly pertains to your use of the Sites and Applications (including your IP address). Google transmits the data and stocks it on servers in the United States. Google may share this data with third parties where legally obligated or when a third party is processing data for a Google account. No information allowing Google to identify you will be transmitted.

Google will use the information collected to:

• analyze your use of the Sites and Applications
• compile reports on Site and Application activity
• provide other services related to Site and Application activity as well as Internet use

DoubleClick

DoubleClick is a cookie that Google Analytics uses to collect anonymous information. Google Analytics' Advertising Features on sites that use DoubleClick include:

• Remarketing using Google Analytics
• Google Display Network Impression Reporting
• DoubleClick platform integrations and Google Analytics Demographics and Interest Reporting

Google Analytics uses the User ID feature on the Sites and Applications. The feature makes it possible to associate information regarding relationships between various computer tools and several sessions with unique identifiers. Each User ID represents an individual anonymous user in Google Analytics.

Deactivation

When browsing, you can deactivate Google Analytics and/or DoubleClick by selecting the appropriate browser or computer tool parameters, advertising parameters, mobile advertisement parameters or other, notably the Google Analytics opt-out browser add-on. By using the Sites or Applications, you expressly agree to allow Google to process personal data under the conditions and for the purposes outlined above.

Desjardins Insurance 1 believes in protecting the information you exchange with us over the Internet.

Security and privacy are our priorities. We are dedicated to ensuring that the information you share with us remains strictly confidential. All our employees must adhere to the strict confidentiality standards outlined in our privacy policy, which we invite you to consult.

Please take a few moments to read about the steps we have taken to make sure the information we exchange via the Internet is secure and learn what you can do to protect yourself on the Internet.

Our rigorous security procedures ensure that your computer is protected when you visit our website:

Secure section indicator

What is a "secure section?"

The secure sections of our website are protected by the SSL protocol . When you send us confidential information over the Internet, such as your name, address or credit card number, this protocol is used to make sure the information stays confidential and isn’t altered in any way. Since the information is encrypted, no one can read it as it travels between your browser and our website. We also use firewalls so that information sent over the Internet has to pass through a number of safety checkpoints between your computer and our systems. This prevents unauthorized access.

To benefit from the security offered by the SSL protocol, use a 128-bit encryption browser, such as the versions listed in the Browser versions section below.

Browser versions

When you visit the Travel Insurance website, use one of the following browsers for best results:

• Internet Explorer: version 11 and Edge (Windows)
• Mozilla Firefox: latest version (Windows)
• Google Chrome: latest version (Windows)
• Safari: version 9.1.1 (Mac)
• iPad: version iOS10
• Samsung or Nexus tablets: version 6.0.1 (Chrome)
• iPhone: version iOS10

If you're using one of the following Web browsers, do not hesitate to advise us of any errors you encounter:

• Internet Explorer: version 9.0 (Windows)
• iPad: version iOS9
• iPhone: version iOS9
• Samsung tablet: version 4.0.4 (Android Browser)

All of the browsers listed above use standard security protocols, which the browser activates automatically when you access your personal file.

This site has been adapted and allows people who use JAWS and NVDA screen reader to navigate using these tools.

You can check the security certificate of our secure pages at any time to confirm that you’re really dealing with Desjardins Financial Security, and not a malicious third party.

Cookies are used on our site. They identify your browser software when you move from site to site or page to page during a Web session. This information can then be used to identify you and facilitate your access to a site and your ability to navigate within our site. Cookies can only be read by the website that sends them to your computer.

When you access our site directly or through a publicity redirecting to our site, a cookie file is automatically created in your computer. Our server and possibly third party ad servers can access this file in order to improve your experience on our site and in some instances promote our products. While they enable the site to identify you as a specific user, they don’t recognize you by your name or other personal information. No personal information is collected through cookies.

We may collect information for statistical purposes, for instance, to determine a page's popularity, the average number of pages accessed per visitor, and the average time each visitor spends on the site. Cookies may also allow us to display Desjardins publicity if you access an external site which displays those publicities.

We use two types of cookies:

• Session cookies: these are not stored on your hard drive and are deleted when you log off our site.
• Persistent cookies: these are stored on your hard drive and recalled at your next visit. They are stored as text files in order to preclude any viruses or programs from accessing your data.

To access all parts of our website, your browser must accept cookies. If your browser is set up to refuse cookies, you can change the Internet settings in your web browser to allow cookies. If you do not allow cookies, some pages may not function properly and some features may not be available.

1 Desjardins Insurance refers to Desjardins Financial Security Life Insurance Company.

Legal Notice

By accessing and using Desjardins Insurance's website, you agree to be bound by the terms set out in this Legal Notice. If you do not agree, you should not use this site.

Desjardins Insurance refers to Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company.

• The Legal notice may be updated at any time without notice.
• For information about site security, please visit the Security section.

Copyright and trademarks

Desjardins Insurance refers to Desjardins Financial Security Life Assurance Company. All trademarks and logos on this website are copyrighted and are owned by Desjardins Insurance. Any use or reproduction without prior consent from Desjardins Insurance is strictly forbidden and may be a violation of copyright or trademark laws.

Information accuracy

The information that appears on this website is for information purposes only and is subject to change and update at any time without notice.

Limitation of liability

Desjardins Insurance will not be liable for any harm, loss or damage resulting directly or indirectly from the use of this website or the information contained therein, the inability to use it or its malfunctioning.

No warranty or representation

Desjardins Insurance makes no warranty or representation that the website will be available or that it will meet your requirements. Access may be interrupted, and delays, failures of performance, errors, omissions, losses of transmitted data, computer viruses or other issues may occur and cause damages for which Desjardins Insurance is not liable.

Limitation of liability for links to other websites and downloadable software

Links to other websites or mobile apps are provided only for your convenience. Desjardins Insurance is not at any time liable for their content or for any difficulties you may have accessing them.

Jurisdiction

This website is governed by the laws of the province of Quebec. All disputes, controversies or claims arising from its use must be submitted to the jurisdiction of the courts of the province of Quebec.

Any unprotected email sent over the internet may be intercepted, lost or modified. Desjardins Insurance is not liable for any damage resulting from the interception, loss or modification of any email that you send to Desjardins Insurance, or for any message of this nature that Desjardins Insurance sends to you.

A log is kept to track security or other events for verification and statistical purposes. This log may contain information about visits to the site or to sections of the site, messages sent or received by a user (in the case of email sent through the website) and other site activity.

Desjardins Insurance may access sent and received messages if it has reasonable grounds to think that the law has been violated or the site’s rules of use have been broken.

Updates to the Legal notice and Terms of use

This notice will occasionally be updated and modified without prior notice. You should therefore check back here whenever you visit the site.

Desjardins Insurance reserves the right to close the secure sections or to limit access without prior notice.

Accessibility

The site is also available in accessible version. To access it, click on the following link:

Toggle to accessible version

To learn more about Desjardins Insurance's commitment to accessibility, click on the following link:

Go to Desjardins Insurance

Before you start

Prerequisites, to apply online, you must:.

• be age 84 or under;
• have a Canadian mailing address;
• have an email address;
• be the person both applying for (policyholder) and paying for the insurance;
• pay by credit card (Visa, MasterCard or American Express).

Language of documents for Quebec residents:

• We will send your initial documents in both English and French to comply with the Charter of the French Language ;
• Subsequent documents will be sent in English only.

In all Dialog box: other cases , please call us at 1-855-440-9884 (toll-free in Canada or the United States) or 418-647-5476 (long-distance charges may apply). Our business hours are Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time)

To purchase by phone

If you want to make your purchase over the phone, you can reach us at 1-855-440-9884 to purchase by phone (toll-free in Canada or the United States) or 418-647-5476 to purchase by phone (long-distance charges may apply).

Our business hours are Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time)

Particular cases

Sometimes it’s better to buy visitors to canada insurance by phone. you should speak to one of our advisors if :.

• you wish to purchase a premium for someone other than yourself. When you purchase your premium online, the policy holder must be one of the insured travellers;
• you want to pay through a Canadian bank account. When you purchase your premium online, the only payment methods available are by credit card (VISA, MasterCard or American Express).

If any of the particular cases applies to you, contact us at 1-855-440-9884 (toll-free in Canada or the United States) or 418-647-5476 (long-distance charges may apply). Our business hours are Monday to Friday: 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (Eastern Time)

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Visitors to Canada

With travellers wherever they go!

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The Ultimate Guide To Visitors Insurance In Canada

By Anna Sylvia | Published on 29 Jun 2023

Canada is known for having public health care, but some people in Canada are not eligible for public health insurance coverage. If you don’t have public health insurance, you’ll have to pay out of pocket for medical services. Medical insurance does not cover visitors to Canada, new immigrants, people on work permits, students, and parents or grandparents visiting with a super visa. However, people without emergency medical coverage can get visitor insurance in Canada to cover emergency medical expenses.

Visitor Insurance in Canada

Why do you need visitor insurance in Canada? If Canada’s public health insurance does not cover you, you have to pay out-of-pocket for medical services. No one likes to think about an injury or illness when travelling; however, these things happen sometimes. Without medical coverage, you’ll need to pay for your treatment yourself. Medical services in Canada are costly, so visitor insurance is a good idea to protect you financially.

What is visitor insurance?

Visitor insurance is an insurance policy you purchase to cover any emergency health care costs you might have while visiting Canada. You might have an accident, an injury or an illness and need emergency medical care. Depending on your required services, your medical bill could cost hundreds or thousands of dollars.

Visitor insurance in Canada will pay for the treatments you require up to the maximum amount of your policy. You must pay the deductible if your policy has one, and the insurance will cover the rest of your expenses up to the policy limit. 

What does visitor insurance cover?

Visitor insurance in Canada covers unexpected medical emergencies once your policy is in effect. It will pay for treatment not covered by other insurance policies you may have. A wide variety of services are covered by visitor insurance, including:

• Ambulance services.
• The cost of a physician and other hospital services for a medical emergency.
• Coverage for emergency dental services.
• The cost of paramedical services.
• Repatriation of your remains if you pass away.
• Airfare for your emergency return, the emergency return of your child/children and travelling companion.

Your policy may cover expenses like meals, hotels, and childcare if needed while you receive treatment.

Travel insurance policies differ between companies , so deciding what coverage you need before purchasing visitor insurance is essential. You can select the coverage you want, with the maximum usually being $150,000.

 Many policies allow you to insure infants as young as 30 days old to individuals who are 84 years of age. Read the policy to get the necessary coverage and be aware of any possible exclusions.

Who needs visitor insurance?

If you are visiting Canada or residing in Canada and don’t have provincial health insurance, you should have visitor insurance. You could be a tourist, visiting family, coming to Canada with a work permit, an international student or a new immigrant waiting to qualify for health benefits. In each case, if you have a medical emergency and no visitor insurance, you or the person who invited you will have to cover your medical costs.

In some cases, you can only enter Canada with visitor insurance. Parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents can apply for a super visa allowing them to stay in Canada for up to five years. To get approval for a super visa, you must fulfill certain conditions. One condition is that the parent or grandparent must have emergency medical (visitor) insurance from a private Canadian insurer.

Does visitor’s insurance in Canada have restrictions?

Your visitor insurance policy will have restrictions. You will be subject to the limits of the policy that you choose. So, if you select $50,000 in emergency medical insurance, your coverage will pay a maximum of $50,000. 

Coverage may be limited or denied if you have pre-existing conditions. Some policies will approve you if your condition has been stable for six months, but the approval for coverage with pre-existing conditions will vary between policies.

The insurer could deny a claim for emergency medical care if the emergency were due to alcohol or drug consumption, participation in extreme sports, other high-risk activities or injuries sustained while committing a criminal act. Typically, visitor insurance does not cover cosmetic procedures or non-emergency procedures.

How much does visitor insurance cost in Canada?

The price of visitor insurance depends on the amount of coverage you choose, the length of your stay and your age. You can get visitor insurance for as low as $10 for a seven-day visit, but the cost will increase if you plan a longer trip.

Visitor insurance in Canada can cover you for up to 365 days with the option to renew if you extend your stay. The best way to determine how much a visitor insurance policy will cost is to enter your information into an online calculator. Many sites also offer comparison tools to get quotes and compare prices between several insurance providers.

Do I need visitor insurance if I have travel medical insurance on my credit card?

Some credit cards, particularly travel credit cards, offer medical insurance. Typically, you have to book the trip with your card or pay for part of the trip with your card. 

If you’re a new immigrant to Canada or on a work permit, you might want to apply for a travel credit card. You may need a Canadian bank account to do so. Several Canadian financial institutions provide bank accounts for people who are new to Canada. They will assist you with opening a bank account and applying for a credit card.

Travel medical insurance policies on credit cards have restrictions, exclusions and maximum limits that may or may not meet your needs. You can find credit card travel insurance policies online or with your credit card package. After reading the policy, you might discover the maximum coverage isn’t enough, or you don’t qualify due to your medical conditions. Or, you may want to purchase visitor insurance for extra coverage.

Do I need visitor insurance if I have health coverage in my province?

If you travel outside your home province and require medical care, you’ll have some health coverage from the province you reside in. Generally, your province will cover what they usually pay for the same services in your home province. You must pay the difference if your care in another province exceeds those costs.

Visitor insurance can provide a financial safety net for people visiting other provinces or regions to work or study. With visitor insurance, you’ll have coverage if you have emergency medical expenses that your province doesn’t fully cover.

Where can I buy visitor insurance?

You’ll find many companies that provide visitor insurance in Canada. Travel agents, banks, trust companies, and general insurance companies offer visitor insurance. Some employers also provide this type of coverage with their benefits package. And some companies specialize solely in visitor insurance.

You’ll find calculators online that will compare prices and policies for you. A travel insurance comparison tool will help you find the best policy at the right price. 

If you’re travelling to Canada, buying visitor insurance from a Canadian provider can make the process easier if you need to make a claim. Canadian insurance companies are familiar with the Canadian healthcare system. Healthcare providers can bill insurers directly, and resolving a complaint can be easier with a Canadian company than if you had to file a complaint with an out-of-country provider.

Is Visitor Insurance Worth it?

No one wants to think about having a medical emergency when travelling, visiting family or working abroad. Unfortunately, things happen sometimes, and you might need medical care due to an injury or illness. 

Visitor insurance can be valuable if you’re in Canada and don’t have medical coverage from a provincial plan. Healthcare costs in Canada are very expensive if you pay them out-of-pocket. Visitor insurance covers you for treatment you may need due to an emergency. Finding the right plan will give you peace of mind while you’re in Canada. It can be money well spent even if you don’t use it.

FAQS about Visitor Insurance in Canada

The best travel insurance will give you the coverage you need when you are in Canada. Choose a reputable company, and be sure to read the policy. Policies vary between companies, so choosing the policy that meets your needs is essential. Find out what the policy covers, the maximum limits and if there are exclusions that may result in your claim being denied.

You can buy visitor insurance after arrival in Canada. However, there may be a waiting period before your policy comes into effect. You will only be covered for emergency medical treatment after your policy is valid.

If you are pregnant before you travel, it is considered a pre-existing condition. Coverage for treatments like routine prenatal care or delivery is usually not covered. Some policies will cover you for emergencies that may arise from pregnancy, such as bleeding or premature labour.

Visitor insurance costs depend on your age, sex, the length of your trip, and the type of coverage you choose. A short trip of a few days may cost $10 or less, while a trip of six months or more could cost several hundred dollars. Online comparison tools can help you compare plans and prices to get the best possible deal for visitor insurance in Canada .

If you are coming as a visitor to Canada, the government strongly recommends medical insurance but does not require it. If you are coming to Canada on a super visa or through the International Experience Canada program, you must have medical insurance.

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•  Stable pre-existing conditions can be covered up to age 84
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•  Free virtual doctors’ consultation available
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•  Competitive rates

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When you choose 2 Visit Canada, you're not just purchasing insurance; you're investing in your well-being and the quality of your experience in Canada.

Be ready for Canada

Arriving in a new country can be as daunting as it is exciting. To prevent any unnecessary anxiety, Pacific Blue Cross offers a Visitors to Canada Travel plan to ensure that your stay here is worry-free.

Our Visitors to Canada Travel plan provides protection against the high cost of emergency medical care for foreign visitors entering Canada for pleasure or business reasons, for foreign students, for immigrants or foreign workers entering Canada to lawfully seek permanent residence.

When this coverage is purchased prior to arrival in Canada, coverage becomes effective on the day you arrive. The plan is also available for purchase within 30 days of arrival, and coverage commences 72 hours following the date of application.

For returning Canadians awaiting eligibility for the Government health insurance plan to begin.

Pacific Blue Cross has you covered.

What coverage is available?

When Visitors to Canada coverage is purchased prior to arrival in Canada, coverage becomes effective on the day you arrive. The plan is also available for purchase within 30 days of arrival, and coverage commences 72 hours following the date of application.

Our Visitors to Canada travel plan covers costs related to emergency medical care resulting from an accident or sudden illness. The plan pays for expenses necessary for the stabilization of the medical condition that are over and above any benefits granted by the government programs of the person's country of residence.

Plan Highlights:

Hospitalization, medical and paramedical expenses.

• Hospitalization:   Hospitalization expenses for ward accommodation. Semiprivate or private accommodation are not covered.
• Physician fees:   The medical and surgical charges for the services of a physician, surgeon or anesthetist, up to the amount payable under the government fee schedule in the area where services are rendered.
• Medical appliances:   The purchase or rental cost of crutches, canes or splints, and the rental cost of wheelchairs, orthopedic corsets and other medical appliances when prescribed by the attending physician.
• The fees of a registered nurse (other than a relative) for private care while hospitalized and when medically necessary and prescribed by the attending physician.
• Diagnostic services:   The charges for laboratory tests and x-rays when prescribed by the attending physician.
• Drugs (when required as part of emergency treatment):   The cost of drugs requiring a physician's prescription, except when they are required for the continued stabilization of a chronic medical condition.
• Accidental Dental Care:   The fees of dental surgeons for treatment necessitated by an external injury (not as a result of deliberate introduction of food or an object into the mouth), only when natural and healthy teeth, which have had no previous treatment, are damaged, or to reduce a fracture or dislocation of the jaw.

Transportation Expenses

The following services must be approved and planned by Medi-Assist.

• Ambulance service:   We cover the cost of local ambulance or air ambulance service to the nearest accredited medical facility, including inter-Hospital transfer when the attending physician and Medi-Assist determine that existing facilities are inadequate to treat or stabilize the patient's condition.
• Repatriation to the residence:   Covers the cost of repatriation to your country of residence by means of appropriate transportation in order to receive immediate medical attention, following the authorization of the attending physician and Medi-Assist.
• Return of the vehicle:   We;ll cover the cost of returning a your vehicle, either private or rental, by a commercial agency or by any person authorized by Medi-Assist to your residence or nearest appropriate vehicle rental agency, when you are unable to return the vehicle due to Illness or accident.
• Return of the deceased:   The plan pays up to $5,000 for the cost of preparation and transportation of the deceased person (excluding the cost of a coffin) to the place of residence, or up to $3,000 for the cost of cremation or burial at the place of death.
• Subsistence allowance:   Covers up to $1,000 ($100 per day for a maximum of 10 days) for the cost of accommodation and meals in a commercial establishment, when a Covered person's return must be delayed due to Illness or bodily injury to himself or to an accompanying Member of the immediate family of the Covered person or Traveling companion.

Failure to contact Medi-Assist in the event of medical consultation or hospitalization following an accident or sudden Illness could result in refusal of the compensation requested.

Call us if an emergency strikes

Medi-Assist   is our 24/7 medical travel assistance line that will help you locate medical care, provide advisory services, refer you to interpreters, assist with transportation, contact relatives and more. It means you can focus on getting healthy and leave it to us to manage your care while in an unfamiliar environment.

If you do experience an unexpected emergency while travelling, we are here to help.

During your trip, you can call our   Medi-Assist   service to determine your level of coverage and receive help:

• In Canada or the U.S., call toll-free:   1-888-699-9333
• Outside of Canada or the U.S. or where toll-free is unavailable, please call collect to   1-604-419-4487   and we will pay for the call.

Claims Process

Out-of-Province Emergency Medical Claims  — Four simple steps

Trip Cancellation / Baggage Claim Form — Form for claiming Trip Cancellations or Lost Baggage [pdf]

Visitors to Canada Travel Plan Claim Form — Form for claiming against a Visitors to Canada Travel Plan contract [pdf]

Visitors to Canada Insurance

While you’re staying in Canada, enjoying all it has to offer, let us take care of your emergency medical needs. We’re happy to provide immigrants and visitors to Canada, and those looking for Super Visa insurance, with emergency medical coverage. Plans feature:

• Easy online application 
• Online Claims make it quick and easy to send your claim from anywhere using any device.
• Coverage for COVID-19 related emergency medical expenses.
• No waiting period if you apply before arriving in Canada or are replacing an existing emergency medical plan issued by a Canadian insurer.
• Choice of deductible  - $0, $100, $500 or $1,000.
• Choice of insurance amount - $25,000, $50,000, $100,000 or $150,000.
• No medical questions if you’re under 55 years of age.
• Side-trip travel coverage for up to 30 days to any other country, as long as the majority of your trip is spent in Canada and there's no travel advisory to "Avoid non-essential travel" or "Avoid all travel" from the Government of Canada for your destination.
• 24/7 travel assistance service  provided in a number of different languages.
• Direct billing  with many health providers, so you can keep your money in your pocket.
• Services may include a consultation or medical advice.
• When you call GMS Travel Assistance they'll determine if virtual care is the best option for you. Some of the things it can help with are: lower back pain, minor sprains and injuries, eye infections, urinary tract infections, skin infections, stomach flu and common cold symptoms.

Benefits of Buying Visitor to Canada Insurance

Benefits of buying visitor to canada insurance benefit.

Hospitalization

Covers hospital room and board charges, up to semi-private, unless specified by a physician (if medically necessary, charges for intensive and coronary care units are included)

Medical Services

Covers the cost of treatment by physician or surgeon

Diagnostic Services

Covers the cost of x-rays and other diagnostic tests

Out-patient Medical Treatment

Covers the cost of out-patient emergency room charges

In-Hospital Prescription Drugs

Covers the cost of prescription drugs and medication prescribed by a physician (to a maximum of a 30 day prescription)

Road Ambulance

Covers 100% of the cost for emergency transport to a hospital

Paramedical Services

Covers up to $500 toward the cost of emergency services of an osteopath, physiotherapist, chiropractor, chiropodist, and/or podiatrist

Accidental Dental

Covers up to $2,000 per person and up to $300 for the relief of dental pain

Return of Remains

Covers the cost for preparation and transportation to your country of origin, destination in Canada, or the cost of cremation or burial at the place of death

Covers the cost for licensed child care for a dependant travelling with you if you are hospitalized (up to $500)

Repatriation

Up to $5,000 to transport you home for further medical treatment with pre-approval by GMS

Out-of-Pocket Expenses

Covers the cost of accommodations, meals, phone calls and taxi or bus fares incurred by an accompanying family member in the event hospitalization continues after the policy expiry date

24-Hour Travel Assistance Services

Coordination of all medical care, transportation, and repatriation; telephone interpretation services in most languages; monitoring of progress during treatment and recovery by managed care

Travel Benefits Outside of Canada

Benefits apply to side-trips outside of Canada of up to 30 days each, excluding visits to your country of origin

• Air Ambulance - charges to transport you back to your destination in Canada or your country of origin.
• Special Attendant - reimbursement of a one-way trip economy airfare ticket for a medical attendant to accompany you back to your destination in Canada or country of origin for further in-hospital treatment
• Escort of Insured Children - reimbursement of the cost of a one-way trip economy airfare to return an accompanying child or children and escort, when necessary, back to your original point of departure

This is a summary of benefits. Please refer to  policy wording  for complete details.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an age limit for immigrants & visitors to canada coverage.

Yes. The person covered under the plan must be under the age of 80 on the effective date of the plan.

Will I be covered if I take a trip to another country during my stay in Canada?

It depends. You'll have coverage as long as:

• Your trip is for 30 days or less;
• There is no “avoid all travel” advisory for your destination and there is no “avoid non-essential travel” advisory for your destination.
• Your trip originates and terminates in Canada;
• Your total days outside of Canada are not greater than 50% of your total period of coverage;
• You are not travelling to your country of origin.

You can check the Government of Canada travel advisories page to see if your destination has any advisories.

I'm a Canadian citizen moving back to Canada and I don't have government health coverage. Can I purchase a plan?

Absolutely! Our plan can cover you until your provincial health coverage kicks in.

Have more questions?

We'll gladly answer them

Immigrants & Visitors to Canada Documents

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Answer a few questions to find out if you need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to visit or transit through Canada

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It costs $100 CAD to apply for a visitor visa and $85 CAD for your biometrics fee.

A family member or a trusted friend can help you with your application as an unpaid representative.

If you give an immigration agent (consultant, lawyer or Quebec notary) money for their services, they’re considered a paid representative and must be authorized.

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Note that we do not quote multi-trip plans. If you want a quote for a multi-trip plan please  contact us .

*  $150,000 is only available for those people aged 69 or less.

**  There is a waiting period if you purchase your policy after arriving in Canada.

***  72 hour waiting period only applies if policy is purchased within 30 days of arrival in Canada.

****  There is a 48-hour waiting period following your effective date of insurance if you purchase your policy: after the expiry date of an existing Manulife policy or; after you leave home (a claim due to sickness during a waiting period is not covered).

*****  If 85 or under and your effective date of insurance is within 30 days of arrival in Canada then the wait period is 48 hours. If 85 or under and coverage is purchased more than 30 days after arrival then the wait period is 7 days. If age 86 or over and coverage is purchased at any time after your arrival in Canada, then the wait period is 15 days following the effective date of this policy.

1  Dependent upon age(s) of the insured.

2  Refunds available only if there have been no claims (or pending claims) for that policy.

3  Waiting period does not apply to medical emergencies resulting from injury. Also, there is a 7 day waiting period if you apply for coverage and have been in Canada for more than 30 days.

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Home / Travel Insurance / Learning Center /

What is visitors to Canada insurance?

Visitors to Canada insurance refers to travel insurance that helps protect people when they come to visit Canada. Think of it as a safety net in case something unexpected happens during their trip. This insurance can help pay for things like going to the doctor or staying in the hospital if they get sick, or paying for extra hotel nights if their flight home gets cancelled.

What is visitors insurance?

What does visitor insurance cover, do i need travel insurance to visit canada, how much does visitor travel insurance cost, where can i get visitors insurance for a trip to canada.

• Frequently asked questions

Visitors to Canada have different options for insurance coverage to protect them from unexpected expenses that may come up during their trip. Whether you need to see a doctor or buy medication, a sudden turn of events means you have to go home early, or cancelled flights leave you stranded.

As a visitor, you have different travel insurance options to keep you covered no matter what happens. This article will answer all your questions about visitors to Canada insurance.

Need insurance answers now?

Call 1-888-601-9980 to speak to our licensed advisors right away, or book some time with them below.

Visitors insurance can refer to different types of travel insurance coverage that can protect you during a trip to Canada. It will help reimburse or pay for unexpected out-of-pocket expenses or other non-refundable expenses related to your trip.

Depending on the kind of plan you get, visitors insurance can cover costs related to:

• Trip-related incidents. Covers additional expenses if your flight is delayed or cancelled, you have to end your trip early or stay longer than expected, the airline loses your baggage, and more.
• Medical needs. Covers things like  medical emergencies , health care costs if you have to visit the hospital or ER, you need prescription drugs, and more.
• Canadian super visa. Covers people who have a  Canadian super visa . This program lets the parents and grandparents of Canadian citizens and residents stay for years at a time.

Depending on what type of plan you get, Canadian visitor insurance can cover:

You should check your travel insurance policy for details about what you’re covered for. Or schedule a call with one of our advisors to make sure you have the coverage you need.

Visitors insurance is not mandatory for your trip to Canada. But we strongly recommend it. Your trip to Canada is meant to be an experience. Unexpected events can throw a wrench in those plans if you don’t have some kind of coverage to help. A good travel plan gives you convenient protection against that outcome.

Let’s say you eat some spoiled poutine and get food poisoning so bad you need to go to the hospital. We hope this doesn’t happen, but this kind of unexpected incident can cost you thousands in medical bills that aren’t covered by Canada’s public healthcare system. Travel insurance would help cover those costs .

Knowing you have this protection gives you peace of mind during your stay.

Who needs Canadian visitors insurance?

Travel insurance can benefit anyone coming to or travelling within Canada, including:

• Non-residents/temporary visitors
• International students
• Foreign workers and work permit holders
• New residents
• Grandparents and family members of Canadians
• Canadians who spend a lot of time out of the country

⭐ Tourists and temporary visitors

Anyone who may be going on a vacation to Canada should get travel insurance . Even if you only have a single trip planned. At the very least, an emergency medical plan will help make sure they’re covered if they need medical assistance. And a comprehensive travel insurance plan for tourists will help cover trip interruptions, other unexpected costs too.

⭐ Students

When students come from other countries to study in Canada, they might need extra insurance called travel medical insurance. This is because the health insurance provided by their school might only work during the school term and may not cover everything they need. So, having a Canadian medical insurance for visitors helps students when their school insurance doesn’t cover them.

Read more about travel insurance for students .

⭐ Foreign workers and work permit holders

Some people who come to Canada to perform work for a short period of time will not be able to get a government health insurance plan. They may not need a comprehensive travel insurance that covers everything. But they can make sure they’re protected in case of emergencies by getting their own travel medical insurance plan.

Read more about travel insurance for foreign workers in Canada .

⭐ Newcomers to Canada

New residents of Canada have a unique need — they can get public healthcare, but only a few months after their arrival. They still need medical insurance while they wait for their provincial plan, so visitors insurance can fill in the gap.

Read more about what kind of insurance newcomers to Canada need .

⭐ Athletes

When athletes come to Canada for competitions or practice, travel insurance can help safeguard their equipment and help pay for medical costs if they get hurt. The same is true for people who come to Canada for adventure or extreme sports like snowboarding or skiing.

Read more about travel insurance for athletes and adventure sports. 

⭐ Parents and grandparents on a super visa

A super visa is a special visitors visa for parents and grandparents who come to visit their family in Canada. People who have a super visa can stay for years if they want, but they need to have specific medical insurance. Super visa insurance is a type of travel insurance that covers that.

Read more about super visa insurance and super visa insurance payments .

⭐ Canadian residents who spend a long time outside of the country

Some Canadians spend months outside of the country (like snowbirds , for instance). But their Canadian government health insurance plan can lapse if they aren’t living in Canada for more than 6 months. And they may have to wait another 6 months to get that health coverage back once they return to the country. A travel health insurance plan can cover them while they wait.

The cost of Canadian visitor insurance depends on factors like:

• Destination
• Type of coverage (emergency medical, trip interruption/cancellation, baggage loss, etc.)
• Trip length
• Medical history
• Amount of coverage
• Pre-existing medical conditions

Check out the chart below for an idea of how much travel insurance with emergency medical coverage might cost you if you decide to stay in Canada for just a week or for an entire month, based on your age.

You can also compare the best travel insurance quotes right here on our website, or schedule a call with one of our insurance advisors for more help!

How much does travel insurance cost? 

Visitors insurance is not mandatory for your trip to Canada, but we strongly recommend it.

What is the deductible for visitors insurance?

Travel insurance policies have something called a deductible . It’s the amount of cash you choose to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in.

You can choose different deductible options based on your insurance company. Some deductibles start at zero dollars, which means you don’t have to pay anything. Others can be really high — even thousands of dollars. It just depends on what works for you.

Each deductible option helps you save a different amount of money on the price you pay for insurance.

The good thing about choosing a higher deductible is that it means you pay less premiums for your visitors insurance. A higher deductible means you are choosing to pay upfront for unexpected costs, no matter what it is. If you choose a zero-dollar deductible, you’ll pay more for your travel insurance plan. But you wouldn’t have to pay any upfront costs at all.

A lot of people choose a higher deductible to lower their premium, and then just pay for small expenses (like one-time prescription drugs) as needed.

There are 4 main ways you can get travel insurance for an upcoming trip to Canada:

1. Insurance broker ✅  Recommended

An insurance broker (like PolicyAdvisor.com ) can give you several different options for visitors insurance policies, providers, and premiums. This helps you choose the plan that would best suit your trip and budget. Travel insurance experts like ours can also give you insight about how claims work, and help you know which company would be the best option for a single trip or multiple trips to Canada .

2. Travel agent ❌ Not recommended 

If you booked your trip through a travel agent, they may have access to travel insurance plans. The downside is most travel agents deal with a single insurance provider, so they may not have the best options available.

3. Work benefits ❌ Not recommended

Sometimes you can get travel insurance coverage through your work or another group plan. Or, if you’re part of a group membership like a union, you may be able to buy travel insurance with a certain provider at a discount. But, again, one downside to this is that you may not have as much choice of your provider or coverage options as you would have with an insurance broker.

4. Credit card ❌ Not recommended

If you booked your trip on your credit card, you may get some insurance coverage as part of the benefits. Be very careful to check the details of your policy, though. Credit card travel insurance usually has a lot of limitations and fine print. And you normally don’t have the option to buy extra coverage if you need it or customize what you’re covered for.

Travellers should buy visitors insurance before their trip starts and before they enter the country.

Get one-on-one help

If you’re looking for visitors insurance and not sure where to start, contact us ! Our team of expert travel insurance advisors would be happy to go over the unique needs for your trip and give you personalized advice for what kind of travel insurance policy would be best for you. Schedule a call or start comparing customized quotes right away by clicking the button below.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do i have to be in canada to get travel insurance.

No, you do not have to physically be in Canada to buy travel insurance . In fact, you should buy visitors insurance before your trip starts, while you’re still outside of the country. Your policy should then be in force for the duration of your stay.

Can I buy visitors insurance for someone else? 

Yes, you can buy travel insurance for someone else. Many people do this when they want to get super visa insurance for their parents, grandparents, or other family members who will be coming to Canada.

If you want to buy Canadian health insurance for your parents who will be visiting Canada, for instance, you can do so! Contact us or click the button below to take a look at some quotes to get started.

Can I get a refund for Canadian visitors insurance?

You can get a refund for visitors insurance, but only in some cases. Some providers, like Allianz, have a 10-day free look period where you can cancel your policy within 10 days to get a refund. Others will issue a refund if you cancel it before the policy is supposed to start.

But we don’t recommend cancelling your travel plan if you’re still going on your trip. Travel insurance will protect you against unprotected costs, which can add up if something goes wrong. If you’re coming to Canada and you don’t already have coverage through your job, a credit card , or anything else, it’s generally not a good idea to cancel your plan.

Reasons you might need to cancel your visitors insurance:

• You got a Canadian government health insurance plan
• Your trip was cancelled
• Your Canadian visitors visa was denied
• You got alternative travel coverage (such as through an employer or credit card, etc.)

Do I need travel insurance if I have credit card coverage?

We recommend that you get your own travel insurance even if you have credit card coverage. While credit card travel insurance is a great add-on, it often has a lot of limitations, like:

• Only covers trips bought using that credit card
• Coverage stops once you turn 65
• Low amount of coverage
• Only basic coverage
• No options for add-ons
• Doesn’t cover COVID-related matters

Getting your own plan is the best way to make sure you have full coverage. No matter what you decide, you should still read the policy details to find out exactly what (and who) is covered under your credit card travel insurance. That will help you decide whether you need a separate plan to supplement coverage.

Do travel advisories affect my visitors insurance?

Yes, travel advisories will affect your visitors insurance. If, for some reason, a travel advisory has been issued warning you not to travel to Canada, then your trip to Canada would not be covered. But it’s highly unlikely that you would run into this issue.

Can visitors to Canada get other types of insurance?

No, visitors to Canada cannot qualify for other types of insurance in Canada, such as life insurance , critical illness insurance , or disability insurance .

They can only get different types of travel insurance to cover unforeseen medical care, trip interruption/cancellation issues , or super visa insurance if they have a Canadian super visa.

Which providers offer travel insurance for visitors to Canada?

Some of the best travel insurance companies in Canada offer visitors insurance, including:

• Group Medical Services (GMS)
• Allianz Global Assistance
• 21st Century Travel Insurance Limited
• Destination Canada

We work with 30 of the best providers to help visitors to Canada get different types of travel insurance, depending on their needs and budget. Browse quotes online or contact us today to get started and enjoy safe travels to the Great White North!

• Canadian visitors insurance refers to different types of travel insurance coverage
• Visitors insurance can cover unexpected and non-refundable costs for your trip to Canada
• The cost of your plan depends on factors like age, trip length, and deductible

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