Returning to Canada Insurance
Emergency medical protection while waiting for provincial coverage.
Why Buy Insurance When Returning to Canada?
When Canadians return home after living abroad, provincial health coverage doesn’t always restart right away. Some provinces have a waiting period of up to three months before you are eligible again. During this gap, you are responsible for paying all medical costs out of pocket.
How to Avoid the Gap in Coverage
Canadian travel insurance companies provide that emergency coverage under the category of insurance referred to as 'visitors to Canada' insurance. And while you may not be 'visiting' Canada, that is the type of insurance you will be asked to purchase to cover the gap in coverage between the time you arrive in Canada and the date that provincial benefits will begin.
Travel Insurance Tips & Resources
Want to learn more about travel insurance in Canada? Check out our blog for travel guides, policy comparisons, and money-saving tips to help you make the right decision.
How to Buy Returning to Canada Insurance
Buying travel medical insurance through BestQuote is quick and easy:
Fill in our online quote form with your trip(s) details. Make sure to select 'Canadian Travellers' and then 'Returning to Canada'.
Instantly compare prices and coverage from Canada's top insurance companies.
Purchase online in minutes - your policy documents are delivered immediately.
Prefer to speak with an advisor? Call us toll-free at 1-888-888-0510 and we'll help you find the best policy at the best price for your needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Find answers to the most commonly asked questions about our services.
Yes, your provincial health plan usually covers basic doctor and hospital care in other provinces, but it will not cover many extra costs like ambulance services, prescriptions, or medical evacuation. Travel insurance fills these gaps and is strongly recommended even for domestic trips.
Yes, most Canadian travel insurance policies include emergency medical evacuation back to Canada if it is medically necessary and approved by the insurer.
If your travel plans aren’t finalized, you don’t need to list every country you might visit - except for the U.S. Whether you go there can affect your premium. For other countries, the number of destinations generally doesn’t change your rate.
Yes, many insurers allow you to extend your policy while abroad if you apply before your coverage expires and no claims have been made.
Yes, some Canadian insurers allow you to buy emergency travel insurance after leaving Canada, but options are limited and waiting periods may apply. It’s always best to purchase coverage before you travel.