Relocating from Australia to Canada is an exciting move, but it also comes with practical considerations—one of the most important being health insurance. While both countries offer universal healthcare, the systems are different, and Australian expats in Canada need to understand how to navigate healthcare access and insurance coverage. This guide provides a clear overview of what Australian citizens living in Canada should know about health insurance and how to stay protected.
1. Do Australian Expats Get Free Healthcare in Canada?
Canada has a universal healthcare system, known as Medicare, that provides free access to hospital and physician services for citizens and permanent residents. However, this system is provincially managed, and each province has its own rules about who qualifies and when.
As an Australian expat, your eligibility for public health insurance depends on your immigration status and length of stay. If you’re in Canada as a permanent resident, work permit holder, or student, you may be eligible to apply for public healthcare in the province you reside in. However, most provinces impose a waiting period—typically up to 3 months—before coverage begins.
2. What to Do During the Waiting Period
During this waiting period, and for those on temporary visas not eligible for provincial coverage, it’s crucial to have private health insurance. Without it, you could face high out-of-pocket costs for even basic medical services.
Here’s what you can do:
- Purchase temporary private health insurance before leaving Australia or upon arrival in Canada.
- Look for international health insurance providers that cover Canadian healthcare services.
- Choose a plan that includes hospital visits, doctor consultations, prescription drugs, and emergency care.
Some popular insurers that offer expat plans include Allianz Care, Bupa Global, Cigna Global, and IMG.
3. How Health Insurance Works Once You’re Covered
Once you’re eligible for the provincial public health plan, you’ll receive a health card that gives you access to medically necessary services for free. This includes:
- GP and specialist visits
- Emergency hospital care
- Diagnostic services
However, public health insurance in Canada does not cover:
- Prescription medications (outside of hospital)
- Dental and vision care
- Ambulance services
- Physiotherapy or other allied health services
To cover these gaps, many residents purchase supplemental private health insurance or receive it as part of an employer benefits package.
4. Differences from Australian Medicare
In Australia, Medicare covers a broader range of services including outpatient prescription drugs (through the PBS), and subsidized private care. Canada’s system, while equitable, offers less comprehensive coverage and no private option for core services, which limits flexibility.
Australian expats accustomed to Medicare rebates and the private system in Australia may find Canada’s system more rigid, especially regarding wait times and access to non-covered services.
5. Final Tips for Australian Expats
- Check eligibility for public health insurance in your destination province.
- Buy private insurance to bridge gaps or cover waiting periods.
- Understand what’s not covered and budget for out-of-pocket expenses.
- If working, ask if employer-sponsored health benefits are included.
Conclusion
Health insurance for Australian expats in Canada involves a mix of public and private options, depending on immigration status and province. With proper planning, you can ensure access to essential healthcare services while avoiding unexpected costs. Before you move, research your options and secure the right insurance coverage for a smooth and healthy transition to life in Canada.