Which Visitor Insurance Is Best in Canada? How to Choose

Visitors to Canada are not covered by provincial health plans like OHIP. One emergency room visit, an ambulance ride and a night in hospital can easily cost thousands of dollars. Visitor insurance protects against that, but plans differ a lot. Here is how to find the one that's best for your visitor.

Start with who is visiting

• Parents or grandparents on a Super Visa need a plan that meets IRCC rules (see our Super Visa checklist).
• Tourists and family visitors on a regular visitor visa or eTA can choose any length and coverage amount.
• New immigrants, returning Canadians and workers waiting for provincial coverage need a plan that covers them until their health card starts.
• International students usually need a school or student plan, such as UHIP in Ontario.

What makes a visitor plan "the best"

1. Enough coverage

Plans are sold in amounts like $25,000, $50,000, $100,000, $150,000 and higher. For older visitors, or anyone with a medical history, $100,000 or more is sensible.

2. Pre-existing conditions

If the visitor has diabetes, high blood pressure or heart problems, choose a plan that covers stable pre-existing conditions. Read how "stable" is defined, and answer the medical questions carefully.

3. The deductible

A $0 deductible means no out-of-pocket cost per claim; a $1,000 deductible lowers the premium. Pick a level your family could pay in an emergency.

4. The waiting period if already in Canada

Buying before arrival avoids waiting periods. If the visitor is already here, most plans don't cover sickness for the first 48 hours to 8 days. See insurance for visitors already in Canada.

5. Side trips and the return home

Planning a trip to the U.S. or a cruise during the stay? Many plans cover side trips outside Canada, but not the home country.

6. Refunds and flexibility

Can you extend the policy online? Is there a refund for an early return with no claims? These save money when plans change.

7. The insurer and assistance service

A strong insurer with 24/7 emergency assistance and direct billing to hospitals makes a real difference in an emergency.

Popular visitor insurance companies in Canada

Life Advice compares plans from insurers such as Manulife, Allianz, Blue Cross, TuGo, GMS, Travelance, Destination, 21st Century, Secure Travel, Travel Shield, Ingle and Trustone Health. Each has strengths for different ages and health profiles, which is why comparing them side by side matters more than picking a brand name.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Buying the cheapest plan without checking pre-existing condition exclusions.
• Choosing too little coverage for an older visitor.
• Waiting until after arrival and facing a waiting period.
• Not calling the insurer's assistance line before treatment.

Frequently asked questions

Is visitor insurance mandatory in Canada?

It is mandatory for the Super Visa. For a regular visitor visa it is not legally required, but without it the visitor pays the full cost of any medical care.

Can I buy visitor insurance for someone else?

Yes. Family members in Canada usually buy it for their visiting parents or relatives and pay by credit card.

What is the best visitor insurance for seniors?

One that covers their stable pre-existing conditions, has enough coverage, and has a deductible you can manage. See our guide to cheapest visitor insurance for seniors.

This article is general information, not advice for your situation. Coverage, prices and rules vary by insurer and can change. Always read your policy wording.