When parents or grandparents visit Canada, they are not covered by provincial health plans like OHIP. A short hospital stay can cost tens of thousands of dollars, so visitor insurance is essential. For seniors, it can also be expensive. Here is how to find affordable coverage without leaving dangerous gaps.
Why visitor insurance costs more for seniors
Insurers price visitor insurance by the risk of a claim, and medical emergencies are more common with age. Premiums usually rise at each age band (for example 60–69, 70–79 and 80+), and some insurers limit how much coverage they offer to visitors over 85.
What affects the price
- Length of stay: you pay only for the days you need. A 3-month visit costs far less than a full year.
- Coverage amount: plans range from $10,000 to $150,000 or more. Lower amounts are cheaper but may not be enough for a serious emergency.
- Deductible: choosing a higher deductible lowers the premium.
- Pre-existing conditions: coverage for stable conditions costs more, but without it, an emergency linked to that condition may not be paid.
How to save without losing coverage
- Match the plan to the trip. Buy for the exact dates of the visit. Many plans let you extend coverage if the visit gets longer.
- Pick a sensible coverage amount. For seniors we suggest at least $100,000. Saving a little by choosing $25,000 can leave your family with a large bill.
- Raise the deductible. A $500 or $1,000 deductible can reduce the cost.
- Check the stability period. If a condition has been stable for the insurer's required period (often 90 or 180 days), you may get coverage at a lower price than you expect.
- Compare several insurers. Prices for the same senior can vary widely between companies.
- Buy before arrival. Buying after arrival usually means a waiting period for illness.
Visitor insurance or Super Visa insurance?
If your parents are coming on a regular visitor visa for a few months, a standard visitor plan is usually enough. If they are applying for a Super Visa, the plan must provide at least $100,000 of coverage for one year from entry. See our 2026 Super Visa cost guide for typical prices by age.
Get an affordable quote
As an independent broker in Kitchener, Life Advice Insurance Inc. compares visitor plans from several Canadian insurers to find the best value for your parents. Get a free visitor insurance quote or call 1-855-500-5041.
