Question 1

How do I review my quote?

Accepted Answer

After generating a quote, we email you a link so you can review it anytime. You can also log into your account on our website and access your quotes from the top menu bar.

Question 2

What payment methods does BestQuote accept for travel insurance (credit card, debit card, etc.)

Accepted Answer

BestQuote accepts credit cards and debit cards (debit only if no e-signature is required).

Question 3

How long does it take to get proof of coverage if I buy insurance online with BestQuote?

Accepted Answer

You’ll receive your confirmation of coverage and policy documents by email within minutes, or up to 24 hours, after purchasing online.

Question 4

How does buying travel insurance online with BestQuote work? Do I still need to sign anything?

Accepted Answer

Buying online with BestQuote is quick and paperless. Simply enter your trip details, get a quote, compare policies, and purchase through our secure platform. No physical signatures are needed, though some policies may require an e-signature.

Question 5

Are the insurance companies on BestQuote reputable and trustworthy?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BestQuote only works with well-established, licensed Canadian insurance companies. All insurers listed on our platform are reputable and regulated by Canadian insurance authorities.

Question 6

How many insurance companies does BestQuote compare for travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

BestQuote compares policies from more than a dozen leading Canadian travel insurance companies. This give travellers a wide range of options to choose from based on price, coverage, and benefits.

Question 7

Do I pay extra fees when I buy through BestQuote, or is it the same price as going direct to the insurance company?

Accepted Answer

There are no extra fees when you purchase through BestQuote. The price is the same as buying directely from the insurance company. However, you gain the advantage of comparing multiple providers at once, excellent customer support, and peace of mind knowing you've chosen the best policy for your needs when you buy from BestQuote.

Question 8

Is BestQuote licensed to sell travel insurance in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes. BestQuote Travel Insurance is a fully licensed Canadian insurance agency, as well as a Lloyds of London coverholder, that is authorized to sell travel insurance across Canada (except for Quebec).

Question 9

Who is BestQuote Travel Insurance?

Accepted Answer

BestQuote Travel Insurance is a Canadian agency based in Vancouver that offers a variety of travel insurance plans for visitors to Canada, including IEC and Super Visa applicants. They partner with multiple Canadian insurers to provide personalized recommendations and policies like MedEC, which covers emergency medical care and repatriation.

Question 10

Can I apply if I don’t yet have a Canadian address or phone number?

Accepted Answer

If you have family or friends in the province you plan to stay, you can use their information. You may also use temporary contacts such as a school or hotel. If you will obtain a Canadian phone number after arrival, it’s fine to use our number when applying. Please email us your new address or phone number once it’s available.

Question 11

Does travel insurance cover telemedicine or online doctor visits while abroad?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If you need urgent medical attention while abroad, you can make a claim for telemedicine or online doctor visits.

Question 12

Can I change or cancel my travel insurance policy after purchase?

Accepted Answer

Yes, you may be able to change or cancel your travel insurance policy after purchase. If your visa is denied or you cancel your trip before it begins, you might be eligible for a partial or full refund. Date changes are usually possible as long as you submit your request before your departure. Please contact us by email with supporting documents explaining your reason, and we will assist you as soon as possible.

Question 13

When does my travel insurance coverage begin and end?

Accepted Answer

Coverage is based on the start and end dates you choose when purchasing your policy. If your trip ends earlier than planned, you may request a refund of the unused premium and cancel your policy, provided no claims have been made. Unless you notify us otherwise, your coverage remains valid even if your travel is interrupted.

Question 14

Does travel insurance cover trip cancellations, delays or lost baggage?

Accepted Answer

Travel insurance can cover trip cancellations, delays, and lost or stolen baggage if you buy a plan that includes trip interruption or cancellation benefits. Basic emergency medical-only policies usually don’t cover these situations, so it’s important to choose the right plan for your needs.

Question 15

What is the stability or "stable period" requirement for pre-existing conditions?

Accepted Answer

Travel insurance only covers unexpected medical issues, so pre-existing conditions are usually excluded unless they’ve been stable for a required period before your policy starts. The stability period can range from 90 to 365 days, depending on the insurer, and means no new symptoms, treatments, or medication changes during that time. Some conditions, such as diabetes, heart disease, or lung disease, may still be excluded even if they’ve been stable, so it’s important to check the exact policy definitions and stability rules.

Question 16

What does a pre-existing condition mean in travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

In travel insurance, a pre-existing condition is any medical issue you had before your coverage started. This can include symptoms, doctor visits, hospitalizations, or prescribed medications within a certain “look-back” period, usually 3 months to 1 year. If your condition hasn’t been stable for the required period, it’s typically excluded from coverage, which is why comparing policy definitions carefully is so important.

Question 17

What is a deductible in travel insurance and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

A deductible in travel insurance is the amount you must pay out of pocket before your insurer covers the rest of your eligible expenses. Policies may have no deductible, or you can choose one (for example, $500) to lower your premium. A higher deductible reduces the cost of your policy, but it means you’ll pay more yourself if you make a claim.

Question 18

Why do I need to buy travel insurance before my trip?

Accepted Answer

Travel insurance protects you from high medical costs abroad and covers expenses not included in provincial health plans, such as hospital stays, medical evacuation, and trip interruptions. Without it, you could face thousands of dollars in unexpected bills.

Question 19

Does my provincial health plan cover me when I travel out of province in Canada, and do I still need travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 20

How many countries should I list on my travel insurance policy if my travel plans aren't final?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 21

Can I use Canadian travel insurance for cruises outside the country?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Canadian travel insurance can cover cruises, but you should read the policy carefully. Some situations may require purchasing an additional add-on for full coverage.

Question 22

Does Canadian Travel insurance coverage emergency medical evacuation back to Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes, most Canadian travel insurance policies include emergency medical evacuation back to Canada if it is medically necessary and approved by the insurer.

Question 23

Do Canadian credit cards provide enough travel insurance coverage?

Accepted Answer

Many Canadian credit cards include travel insurance, but coverage is typically limited to short trips and certain age groups. Coverage amounts may be capped, and pre-existing conditions are often excluded. While credit card insurance can be helpful, it rarely matches the breadth of standalone travel insurance policies, especially for longer trips or older travellers.

Question 24

Can I extend my Canadian travel insurance policy while I'm still abroad?

Accepted Answer

Yes, many insurers allow you to extend your policy while abroad if you apply before your coverage expires and no claims have been made.

Question 25

Can I buy emergency medical travel insurance if I have already left Canada?

Accepted Answer

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.

Question 26

Which policy is best for me if I’m unsure after viewing the quote results?

Accepted Answer

You can use our MSQ (Medical Screening Questionnaire) by filling out and submitting the form, and we’ll email you personalized recommendations based on your answers.

Question 27

Should I buy a multi-trip annual travel insurance plan or just a single-trip policy?

Accepted Answer

A single-trip plan is cheaper if you are only taking one journey, but an annual multi-trip plan is often the better value if you travel several times a year. Comparing both options helps you choose the most cost-effective coverage.

Question 28

What is 'trip cost'?

Accepted Answer

In travel insurance, trip cost is the total of your non-refundable, pre-paid expenses for a trip - like flights, hotels, and tour deposits. It determines your coverage and helps calculate the premium, ensuring you’re reimbursed if a covered cancellation or interruption occurs.

Question 29

What is the difference between single and multi-trip travel insurance?

Accepted Answer

A single-trip policy covers one journey for the number of days you select. A multi-trip (annual) policy covers multiple trips within a year, each up to a set number of days, which is convenient for frequent travelers.

Question 30

Are sports and adventure activities covered for visitors to Canada?

Accepted Answer

Some Visitors to Canada policies include limited coverage for short side trips outside Canada, often as long as your trip begins and ends in Canada and you spend the majority of your time here. These side‑trip benefits may allow emergency coverage during brief visits to the United States or other nearby destinations, but they usually have time limits and conditions. For example, coverage might apply for trips of up to 30 days outside Canada during your overall insured period.If you plan multiple visits to other countries while you are in Canada, you should confirm how many days are allowed and whether any regions are excluded. In some cases, a separate travel insurance policy may be more appropriate for longer or higher‑risk trips. Always check the wording before leaving Canada so you know when your coverage applies and when you may need additional protection.

Question 31

What is not covered by Visitors to Canada insurance?

Accepted Answer

Visitors to Canada insurance is intended for unexpected emergencies, not routine or planned care. It usually does not cover regular check‑ups, scheduled medical appointments, ongoing treatments, or elective procedures. Non‑emergency pregnancy care, preventive vaccines, and long‑term prescription drugs are generally excluded as well.Most policies also exclude expenses related to unstable pre‑existing conditions, high‑risk activities not listed as covered, and any medical issues that arise during a waiting period if you purchase after arrival. Claims resulting from illegal acts, alcohol or drug abuse, or travelling against medical advice can also be denied. Reviewing the exclusions section before you buy helps you understand where you may still have financial risk.

Question 32

What does Visitors to Canada insurance usually cover?

Accepted Answer

Most Visitors to Canada medical plans cover emergency medical care for sudden illness or accidental injury. This typically includes hospital stays, emergency room treatment, physician and specialist fees, diagnostic tests, prescription medications for short‑term treatment, and use of an ambulance. Many plans also include emergency dental treatment for injury to natural teeth, and some cover relief of sudden dental pain up to a small limit.In addition, you may be covered for emergency medical evacuation, repatriation of remains, and 24/7 emergency assistance services that help you find care and coordinate payment. These benefits are designed to protect you in serious situations where you must be transported to another facility or back to your home country. Always read the summary of benefits and policy wording so you know exactly what is included in your chosen plan.

Question 33

Are pre‑existing medical conditions covered for visitors to Canada?

Accepted Answer

Coverage for pre‑existing medical conditions depends on the plan you choose and how stable your condition has been before the policy starts. Some policies exclude all pre‑existing conditions, while others cover them if they have been stable for a certain period (for example, 90 or 180 days) with no new symptoms, tests, or medication changes. The insurer defines “stable,” so it’s important to read the wording carefully.If you have heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or other ongoing conditions, you should look for plans that clearly describe pre‑existing coverage and stability rules. You may need to answer health questions or complete a medical questionnaire, especially at older ages or at higher coverage amounts. Being accurate on the application helps avoid claim problems later and ensures you know what is and is not covered before you travel.

Question 34

What is the difference between Visitors to Canada insurance and Super Visa insurance?

Accepted Answer

Visitors to Canada insurance is designed for tourists, family visitors, and other temporary guests who plan shorter stays or flexible travel dates. Coverage can often be purchased for a few days up to a year, and you can choose the insurance amount and start date that fit your plans. This type of policy is suitable if you are coming for a vacation, attending an event, or visiting relatives for a limited period.Super Visa insurance is a specific type of medical coverage required for parents and grandparents who apply for Canada’s Super Visa program. It must meet federal requirements, including a minimum of 100,000 CAD in emergency medical coverage and validity for at least one year, even if you plan a shorter initial stay. Super Visa policies are structured to match the longer stays and multiple entries allowed under the program, and proof of insurance is part of the visa application.

Question 35

Should I buy Visitors to Canada insurance before I travel, or after I arrive?

Accepted Answer

It is best to buy Visitors to Canada insurance before you leave your home country. When you purchase coverage before travelling, your policy can start as soon as you arrive in Canada, with no waiting period. This means you are protected right away, even if something happens on your first day.If you wait to buy after you arrive, many insurers apply a waiting period, often 48 hours to several days, during which coverage for sickness may be limited or excluded. Any medical issues that start during this waiting period may not be covered, leaving you exposed to unexpected bills. Buying your policy in advance helps you avoid gaps in coverage and gives you a simple start date: the day you land in Canada.

Question 36

Is Visitors to Canada medical insurance mandatory to enter Canada?

Accepted Answer

For most tourists and short‑term visitors, medical insurance is not legally required to enter Canada, but it is highly recommended. Canada’s immigration officers can ask you to show proof that you can pay for your stay, and having insurance is one way to demonstrate this. Some categories of visitors, such as parents and grandparents coming on a Super Visa, must have a specific type of medical insurance that meets government requirements.Even when it’s not mandatory, travelling without coverage is risky because provincial health plans rarely cover non‑residents. If you become sick or injured and do not have insurance, you must pay medical bills yourself, and this can affect your finances and future travel plans. Buying Visitors to Canada insurance before you arrive helps protect both your health and your budget.

Question 37

What should I do if I need emergency medical care or hospitalization while in Canada?

Accepted Answer

If you need emergency care in Canada, call your insurance company’s 24/7 assistance line right away to report the situation and get approval for covered expenses. Not notifying your insurer promptly may reduce your coverage.

Question 38

Can I use regular travel insurance for my IEC Working Holiday?

Accepted Answer

Not all regular travel insurance products meet IEC requirements. To qualify, your plan must explicitly include medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation, and be valid for the full length of your intended stay in Canada.Many standard travel plans are designed for short trips and may limit coverage length or exclude repatriation. When you choose a policy, make sure it is marketed or confirmed as suitable for IEC or long‑term working holiday stays, and check that the wording clearly lists the three required coverages.

Question 39

How long should my IEC insurance policy be valid for?

Accepted Answer

Your IEC insurance should be valid for the full length of your expected work permit. For example, if you are eligible for a 12‑month IEC visa, you should have 12 months of coverage; if you are eligible for 24 months, you should have 24 months of coverage.If your policy is only valid for part of your intended stay, a border officer may issue a work permit that expires on the same date as your insurance. You cannot later extend your IEC work permit just by buying more insurance, so it is best to match your coverage to the maximum stay you want from the start.

Question 40

[MedEC] I am now covered by GHIP (provincial medical). How do I apply for a partial refund?

Accepted Answer

To apply for a GHIP refund, email us a copy of your provincial health card. If no claims have been made, we will provide a refund form for you to complete.

Question 41

Are there IEC insurance policies that cover skiing, snowboarding, or other adventure sports in Canada?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some IEC insurance policies, including BestQuote's MedEC Visitors Emergency Health & Repatriation Insurance policy, offer add-ons for recreational skiing, snowboarding, and other adventure sports. Always check the policy’s sports coverage section.

Question 42

What kind of insurance is required for an IEC Working Holiday visa in Canada?

Accepted Answer

IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) requires IEC Working Holiday visa holders to have emergency medical insurance that covers hospitalization, health care, and repatriation for the entire length of their stay in Canada. Without proof of valid coverage, you may be refused entry.

Question 43

Do BestQuote's IEC insurance plans meet the IRCC requirements for a working Holiday?

Accepted Answer

Yes, BestQuote’s IEC insurance plans meet IRCC’s requirements, including coverage for hospitalization, health care, and repatriation.

Question 44

I am renewing my visa in Canada and currently have provincial medical coverage. Are there any plans I am eligible to buy?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some of the plans we offer can be purchased even if you already have provincial medical coverage. Please review the policy wording on the quote page for details.

Question 45

If I already have GHIP when applying, which BestQuote IEC policy should I choose?

Accepted Answer

If you already have GHIP coverage, BestQuote offers policies from six different insurers that accept applicants with provincial health coverage. Go to the “Summary” and check the “Eligibility” section of each plan to confirm eligibility.

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