Healthcare is one service that should be on your list after achieving permanent resident status. A Canadian permanent resident has the right to apply for public health insurance that allows most services without payment.
It is important to find relevant information regarding the health care plan of a specific province. The CIC provides a list of the ministries of health that an immigrant can use before starting the application process.
Services Covered
Emergency medical services are free in all Canadian provinces and territories, which you can access even without a card. In some instances, permanent residents may have to pay if they seek medical care in a province where they are not residents. Also, some regions have waiting periods before one can access public health insurance.
A permanent resident may have to wait up to three months depending on the province, so it serves you well to find that out when making an application. Refugee claimants or protected persons in Canada have access to temporary health insurance.
Private Insurance
Public health insurance provides coverage for basic services; thus, extra insurance may be necessary. Services such as physiotherapy, dental care, prescription eyeglasses and ambulance will require you to have private insurance. Most employers provide insurance plans that workers have to pay for partially.
If you are a part of a professional union, you can find out if they have private insurance alternatives for members. When buying from an insurance company, ensure that you find the most suitable plan available.
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