The waiting period and interim insurance

Some provinces make new residents wait up to 3 months for coverage — bridge the gap with private insurance.

Key points to understand

Provinces with a waiting period (e.g. up to 3 months)

Provinces with a waiting period (e.g. up to 3 months). In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Private/interim health insurance to cover the gap

Private/interim health insurance to cover the gap. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

What public coverage does and doesn't include

What public coverage does and doesn't include. In practice, this is one of the details newcomers most often ask about, so take a moment to understand how it applies to your situation before moving on.

Practical tips

• Prepare your documents and translations in advance — most delays come from missing paperwork.
• Always note the office name, address, and a contact number before you go.
• Ask the community on MyHAbroad if you’re unsure — chances are someone has already been through it.