Health insurance for international students in Canada varies by province and institution. In most provinces, international students on a study permit are **not covered by the provincial health plan** and must purchase private health insurance. Ontario is the notable exception — international students at most Ontario universities are enrolled in UHIP (University Health Insurance Plan), which provides provincial-equivalent coverage. British Columbia and Alberta cover international students under their provincial plans.
Provincial Health Coverage for International Students: Province by Province
This is the most important thing to know — your health coverage depends entirely on which province your institution is in.
Ontario: UHIP (University Health Insurance Plan)
UHIP is a provincially mandated health insurance program for international students at Ontario universities and their dependants.
Administered by: Sun Life Financial on behalf of the Council of Ontario Universities
Who is covered: International students at participating Ontario universities and their eligible dependants (spouse, dependent children) who are in Canada with you.
Annual cost (2024–2025): Approximately $650–$750 per student; additional for dependants.
What UHIP covers:
- Physician visits (GP and specialist)
- Hospital stays
- Diagnostic services (lab tests, X-rays)
- Prescription drugs (limited coverage — check the formulary)
- Some dental emergencies
- Emergency care within Canada and limited out-of-province coverage
What UHIP does not cover:
- Routine dental care
- Vision care (glasses, contacts)
- Most paramedical services (physiotherapy, massage therapy)
- Preventive care that is not medically necessary
Opting Out of UHIP
If you have equivalent private coverage (through a parent's plan or your own private policy), you may be able to opt out of UHIP during your institution's opt-out window (typically the first 30 days of each school year). You must demonstrate equivalent or superior coverage to do so.
British Columbia: MSP Coverage for International Students
International students in BC on a valid study permit are eligible for the provincial health plan (MSP — Medical Services Plan) with no waiting period.
How to enroll: Apply online at hibc.gov.bc.ca or in person at a Service BC location. Bring your study permit and passport. Coverage begins on the date you apply (or your arrival date if you apply within 3 months of arriving).
What MSP covers: Doctor visits, hospital care, diagnostic services — the same as for permanent residents. MSP does not cover prescription drugs, dental, or vision.
Supplemental coverage: Most BC post-secondary institutions (UBC, SFU, BCIT, etc.) include a mandatory student health and dental plan in their student fees (~$300–$600/year). This covers prescription drugs, dental, and some paramedical services on top of MSP.
Alberta: AHCIP Coverage for International Students
International students in Alberta on a valid study permit are eligible for Alberta's provincial health plan (AHCIP) immediately upon establishing Alberta residency.
How to enroll: Apply at an Alberta registry agent or online. Coverage starts on the first day of the month after your application date (so apply immediately on arrival).
Cost: Free.
Supplemental coverage: Like BC, Alberta universities typically include a supplemental health and dental plan in student fees.
Quebec and Other Provinces: Private Insurance Required
In Quebec, international students are not covered by RAMQ (the provincial health plan). You must purchase private health insurance that meets Quebec's requirements.
Quebec — CAQ and Health Insurance
The Certificate d'acceptation du Québec (CAQ) for study requires proof of health insurance. See our dedicated guide: [Studying in Quebec: CAQ Requirements](/articles/studying-in-quebec-caq).
Most Quebec universities (McGill, Concordia, UdeM, Université Laval) automatically enroll international students in a mandatory health and dental insurance plan (~$700–$900/year) that meets provincial requirements.
University-Sponsored Student Health Plans
Across Canada, most universities and colleges include a supplemental health and dental plan in student fees — even in provinces where the provincial plan covers you. This is separate from the provincial plan and covers the gaps it leaves.
Typical coverage:
- Prescription drugs: 60–80% up to an annual maximum
- Dental (basic): 60–80% coverage for cleanings, fillings, X-rays
- Vision: $100–$175 toward glasses/contacts every 2 years
- Paramedical: Physiotherapy, massage, psychologist ($200–$500 per practitioner)
- Travel insurance: Emergency coverage outside your province
Annual cost: Typically included in student fees — approximately $300–$700/year depending on institution. Check your institution's student union for details.
Opting Out
If you have equivalent coverage elsewhere, most institutions allow opt-out during a defined window. Most international students should keep the student plan as it is well-priced for the coverage offered.
What International Students Typically Need to Budget for Healthcare
Example Scenarios
Frequently Asked Questions
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