According to the law all citizens and permanent residents of Canada have government-covered health insurance. Dental services are not covered by this insurance. This insurance in the Province of Ontario is called Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

The document confirming that your health insurance is covered by the government is a plastic card with your photo and number. Each time when you visit a doctor your card is scanned in a special scanner connected with the main computer. Thus the doctor is paid by the government.

If you have any questions or doubts call the number 613-548-6545.

2. How to get a Health card.

In Ontario, New Brunswick and British Columbia there is a waiting period of three months after your arrival before you can get a Health card.

You should apply to the Ministry of Health and fill out a special application form having the following supportive documents:

• Confirmation of Permanent Residence
• Passport
• 2 documents confirming your residential address. These may be your driver’s licence, rental agreement, bank statement.

3. Health insurance for three months

You may want to purchase health insurance for the waiting period of three months. The cost of this insurance policy depends on your age, services covered, and it varies in different insurance companies.

4. Insurance of medical services not covered by OHIP.

When you are employed full-time you may get additional insurance for medical services not covered by the government health insurance program: prescription medicines, dental services, life insurance, etc. It will be included into the benefits package offered by your employer. This insurance may be full or partial depending on the group insurance plan of your company. You may get 100%, 80%, etc. of the coverage and it will, as a rule, include your immediate family (your spouse and children). Unfortunately it does not cover your parents.