Travel insurance is an important consideration for anyone applying for a Canada work visa. While Canada has a public healthcare system, most temporary foreign workers are not immediately covered, making private travel or health insurance essential during the initial period of stay.
This guide explains travel insurance costs, coverage options, requirements, and how to choose the right plan for a Canada work visa.
Travel insurance for a Canada work visa typically costs between $50 and $150 per month, depending on age, coverage limits, length of stay, and provider. It is commonly used to cover medical emergencies before provincial healthcare eligibility begins.
Is Travel Insurance Required for a Canada Work Visa?
Travel insurance is not always legally mandatory for a Canada work visa, but it is strongly recommended and sometimes required by:
-
Employers
-
Immigration programs
-
Provinces with waiting periods for public healthcare
Some provinces impose a waiting period of up to three months before new workers can access public health coverage.
Why Travel Insurance Is Important for Work Visa Holders
Without insurance, foreign workers may face high medical costs in Canada. Travel insurance helps cover:
-
Emergency medical treatment
-
Hospital stays
-
Prescription medication (limited)
-
Emergency medical evacuation
-
Accidental injury
Healthcare costs for non-insured individuals can be significant.
Travel Insurance Costs for Canada Work Visa Holders
Typical Monthly Cost Range
-
$50 – $80: Basic emergency coverage
-
$80 – $120: Mid-range plans with higher limits
-
$120 – $150: Comprehensive plans or older applicants
Costs depend on:
-
Age
-
Coverage limits
-
Length of stay
-
Pre-existing condition coverage
-
Insurance provider
What Does Travel Insurance Usually Cover?
Standard Coverage Includes
-
Emergency medical care
-
Hospitalization
-
Ambulance services
-
Emergency dental treatment
-
Medical evacuation or repatriation
What Is Often Not Covered
-
Routine checkups
-
Pre-existing conditions (unless specified)
-
Maternity care
-
Long-term chronic treatments
Always review policy details carefully.
How Long Should Coverage Last?
Most work visa holders purchase insurance for:
-
The first 3 months, or
-
Until they qualify for provincial health insurance
Some workers maintain private coverage as a supplement even after enrollment.
Travel Insurance vs Provincial Health Insurance
| Feature | Travel Insurance | Provincial Health Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Coverage Start | Immediate | After waiting period |
| Emergency Care | Yes | Yes |
| Routine Care | Limited | Yes |
| Prescription Drugs | Limited | Partial |
| Eligibility | All visa holders | Eligible residents |
Travel insurance is best viewed as temporary or supplemental coverage.
How to Choose the Right Travel Insurance Plan
When comparing plans, consider:
-
Minimum coverage limits (often $100,000+)
-
Coverage start date
-
Pre-existing condition clauses
-
Refund policies
-
Insurer reputation
Choose plans that clearly state coverage for work visa holders.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
-
Assuming public healthcare starts immediately
-
Buying tourist-only policies without work coverage
-
Ignoring exclusions and waiting periods
-
Choosing the cheapest plan without adequate coverage
FAQs
How much is travel insurance for a Canada work visa?
Most plans cost $50–$150 per month, depending on coverage and age.
Do employers provide health insurance?
Some employers offer private health benefits, but many start after a probation period.
Can I apply for a work visa without insurance?
Yes, but having insurance is strongly recommended and may be required by employers or provinces.
Does travel insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Only if explicitly included in the policy.
Final Thoughts
Travel insurance plays a key role in protecting foreign workers in Canada during the early stages of employment. Understanding costs, coverage limits, and exclusions helps you choose a plan that aligns with your visa status and healthcare needs.
