travel to canada medical insurance

Canada Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for canada: a guide for us travelers .

From exploring Banff National Park's breathtaking landscapes to experiencing Toronto's vibrant culture or the historic sites of Quebec City, Canada offers a wide range of popular locations and activities. However, before you dive into your adventure, there's a crucial detail to address: securing your travel insurance. 

Discover all the ins and outs of travel insurance for Canada in this guide.   We've got you covered with details on costs, requirements, essential coverage, COVID-19 restrictions, and some handy tips for your trip. 

What should your Travel insurance cover for a trip to Canada? 

How does travel insurance work for canada, do i need travel insurance for canada , how much does travel insurance cost for canada .

• Travel Insurance Requirements for Canada 

Are there any COVID-19 restrictions for US Visitors? 

Are there any required travel vaccinations for canada , traveling with pre-existing medical conditions , our suggested axa travel protection plan .

At a minimum, your travel insurance to Canada should cover trip cancellation, trip interruption and emergency medical expenses. Regarding international travel, the US Department of State outlines key components that should be included in your travel insurance coverage.   AXA Travel Protection plans are designed with these minimum recommended coverages in mind.    

• Medical Coverage – The top priority is making sure your health is in order. With AXA Travel Protection, you can have access to quality healthcare during your trip overseas in the event of unexpected medical emergencies.    
• Trip Cancellation & Interruptions – Assistance against unexpected trip disruptions can dampen the mood, AXA Travel Protection offers coverage against unforeseen events.   
• Emergency Evacuations and Repatriation – In situations where transportation is dire, AXA Travel Protection offers provisions for emergency evacuation and repatriation.   
• Coverage for Personal Belongings – AXA offers coverage for your belongings with assistance against lost or delayed baggage.   
• Optional Cancel for Any Reason – For added flexibility, AXA offers optional Cancel for Any Reason coverage, allowing you to cancel your trip for non-traditional reasons.  Exclusive to Platinum Plan holders. 

In just a few seconds, you can get a free quote and purchase the best travel insurance for Canada.

Let’s say you’re exploring Ottawa's stunning architecture or skiing down Banff's slopes with AXA Travel Protection. If you were to fall ill or face an unexpected travel hiccup, AXA Travel Protection steps in to help support you. Whether assisting in medical transportation or finding the best alternative for a trip delay, AXA Travel Protection ensures you’re supported in your time of need.  

How AXA Travel Protection Can Benefit Visitors to Canada 

Here’s the entire list of benefits travelers can have access to with an AXA Travel Protection Plan: 

Medical Benefits: 

• Emergency Medical Expenses: Should you fall ill or have an accident during your trip, your policy may offer coverage for medical expenses, including hospital stays and doctor's fees. 
• Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation: In case of a serious medical emergency, your policy may include provisions for evacuation to the nearest appropriate medical facility or repatriation. 
• Non-Emergency Evacuation & Repatriation : In non-medical crises (e.g., political unrest), your policy may cover evacuation or repatriation, subject to policy terms.   

Baggage Benefits: 

• Luggage Delay: If the airline delays your checked baggage, your policy might offer reimbursement for essential items like clothing and toiletries. 
• Lost or Stolen Luggage: In the unfortunate event of permanent loss or theft of your luggage, your policy may offer reimbursement for its value, assisting you in replacing your belongings.   

Pre-Departure Travel Benefits: 

• Trip Cancellation: You may be eligible for reimbursement if you cancel your trip due to a sudden illness or injury. 
• COVID-19 Travel Insurance: Coverage is available for trip cancellation and medical expenses related to COVID-19, subject to policy terms and conditions. 
• Trip Delay: If your flight faces delays due to unforeseen circumstances, you may have coverage for additional expenses such as meals and accommodations.   

Additional Optional Travel Benefits:

• Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver): Exclusive to Gold & Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit gives travelers extra coverage on their rental car against damage and theft. 
• Cancel for Any Reason: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders; this optional benefit gives travelers more flexibility to cancel their trip for any reason outside of their standard policy. 
• Loss Skier Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate some costs associated with pre-paid ski tickets that you or your traveling companion cannot use due to specified slope closures. 
• Loss Golf Days: Exclusive to Platinum plan policy holders, this optional benefit offers reimbursement to mitigate the expenses linked to prepaid golf arrangements that you or your travel companion are unable to utilize due to specified golf closures.   

Americans aren't required to purchase domestic or international travel insurance to visit Canada. But it’s still highly recommended to have a travel insurance plan before embarking on your next trip.  

Why? There are several reasons: 

• Medical Emergencies: Your health is a top priority. If you face a sudden illness or injury in Canada, travel insurance offers the means to receive prompt and quality medical care.    
• Lost Baggage: Airlines sometimes mishandle baggage, and the last thing you want is to be without essentials in an unfamiliar place. Travel insurance offers to cover the cost of replacing necessary items, allowing you to continue on.   
• Flight Delays: Travel disruptions like flight delays can happen. If you miss a connecting flight or incur additional expenses due to delays, travel insurance can help cover the costs. 

In general, travel insurance to Canada costs about 3 – 10% of your total prepaid and non-refundable trip expenses. The cost of travel insurance depends on two factors for AXA Travel Protection plans: 

• Total Trip cost: The total non-prepaid and non-refundable costs you have already paid for your upcoming trip. This includes prepaid excursions, plane tickets, cruise costs, etc.   
• Age: Like any other insurance type, the correlation is rooted in increased health risks associated with older individuals. It's important to note that this doesn't make travel insurance unattainable for older individuals. 

With AXA Travel Protection, travelers to Canada will be offered three tiers of insurance: Silver, Gold , and Platinum . Each provides varying levels of coverage to cater to individual's preferences and travel needs. 

Travel Insurance requirements for Canada 

Travel insurance is not mandatory for US travelers coming to Canada, but having coverage for medical emergencies is a smart move. It's also worth checking if your visa, entry requirements, or tour operator call for extra coverage.   

As of October 2023, Canada has eliminated all COVID-19 entry requirements. However, it's crucial to be mindful of your health. If you develop COVID-19 symptoms before your trip, consider postponing your travel plans to Canada. Having Cancel for Any Reason as part of your travel insurance plan becomes invaluable in such a scenario. This optional benefit provides the flexibility to cancel your trip, even for a reason beyond standard coverage.   

Canada does not have specific vaccine requirements for travelers. However, due to COVID-19, travel requirements may change from time to time. Stay up-to-date on vaccine requirements and recommendations by consulting official sources such as the Government of Canada's website.   

Traveling with pre-existing medical conditions can complicate your plans, but with AXA Travel Protection, we're here to support you during your trip.   Our Gold and Platinum  plans offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions.  The Platinum plan, in particular, is our highest-offered choice for travelers who want our highest coverage limits and optional add-ons, 

What does this mean for you? If you've got a medical condition hanging around, you can qualify for coverage under our Gold and Platinum plans with a pre-existing medical condition , so long as it’s within 14 days of placing your initial trip deposit and in our 60-day look-back period. We're here to ensure you travel easily, no matter your health situation.   

AXA presents travelers with three travel plans – the Silver Plan , Gold Plan , and Platinum Plan , each offering different levels of coverage to suit individual needs. Given that Canadian hospitals often do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare, we genuinely recommend travelers consider purchasing any of these plans, particularly for the crucial coverage they offer for emergency accident and sickness medical expenses.  

The Platinum Plan is your go-to choice if you're looking for extra coverage aligned with the Canadian experience. " Cancel for Any Reason " offers greater flexibility for those unexpected twists in your travel plans and the " Rental Car (Collision Damage Waiver) " offers assistance when you're out exploring Canada's stunning landscapes in a rental car. 

Additionally, part of the Platinum Plan is the " Lost Skier Days " benefit, offering potential reimbursement if ski resorts unexpectedly close due to ever-changing snow conditions. These perks make the Platinum Plan an excellent option for anyone seeking comprehensive protection during their exciting Canadian adventures. 

FAQs about Canada Travel Insurance   

1. can you buy travel insurance after booking a flight .

Absolutely, travelers have the option to purchase travel insurance for Canada after they've booked their flights.  

It's advisable to purchase travel insurance for your trip as soon as you have made your initial trip deposit (prepaid and non-refundable trip costs.)   AXA Travel Protection offers coverage as soon as you purchase your protection plan. We can give coverage against unforeseen events before you leave for your trip.   Additionally, our policies offer coverage for preexisting medical conditions and Cancel for Any Reason if you purchase your protection within 14 days of making your initial trip deposit. 

2. Do US citizens need travel insurance to Canada? 

Travel insurance to Canada from the USA is not mandatory, but it is highly recommended. While Canada’s healthcare system is fantastic, it might not cover all your medical expenses as a non-resident and medical bills can add up fast.  

3. What type of medical conditions does AXA Travel Protection cover?  AXA covers three types of medical expenses: 

• Emergency medical expenses 
• Emergency evacuation & repatriation 
• Non-medical emergency evacuation & repatriation 

Emergency medical expenses are unexpected incidents that arise, such as broken bones, burns, unexpected illnesses, and allergic reactions.  Emergency evacuation and repatriation can cover your immediate transportation home in the event of an accidental injury or illness.     Non-medical emergency evacuation and repatriation can cover evacuation assistance when you immediately leave a destination for non-medical-related events. These could be things like natural disasters or civil unrest.   

Disclaimer: It is important to note that Destination articles are for editorial purposes only and are not intended to replace the advice of a qualified professional. Specifics of travel coverage for your destination will depend on the plan selected, the date of purchase, and the state of residency. Customers are advised to carefully review the terms and conditions of their policy. Contact AXA Travel Insurance if you have any questions.  AXA Assistance USA, Inc.© 2023 All Rights Reserved.  

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CoverMe ® travel insurance for visitors to Canada

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Help cover emergency medical expenses while visiting Canada

Canada has lots to offer, including free health care but only for its residents. When you or your loved ones visit Canada, emergency medical expenses could leave you burdened with hefty bills. With Manulife CoverMe Travel Insurance for Visitors to Canada, you can get help covering unexpected medical expenses such as prescription drugs, dental, hospital, and healthcare practitioner services, so you don’t end up paying out-of-pocket.

Travel plans for Visitors to Canada

All plans meet the requirement of super visa for parents and grandparents. 

This plan helps protect you from emergency medical expenses, so you can focus on experiencing Canada.

• Covers up to the limit you select up to CAD $200K
• No medical questionnaires required
• No coverage for pre-existing medical conditions
• No age limit

Get help with covering the cost for medical emergencies in Canada —even with some pre-existing medical conditions.

• Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions that did not exist within 180 days prior to the effective date 1
• Includes dental, and accident death and dismemberment coverage
• Apply up to age 85

Our most comprehensive plan to help you from emergency medical costs, even if you have a stable pre-existing medical condition.

• Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions that have been stable 2 for at least 180 days
• Includes dental, and accident death and dismemberment benefits

Download a detailed comparison chart for visitors to Canada (opens PDF)

Why Manulife

Our Visitors to Canada travel plans are comprehensive and flexible – all have the following benefits:

• Access to Manulife’s Travel Assistance 24/7 – 365 days a year
• Receive a full refund if your plans change or get cancelled before the effective date
• Side trips are covered when you travel to another destination from Canada 3

Ready to buy?

You can get a quote and purchase Manulife travel insurance online through Manulife CoverMe.

Visitors to Canada travel insurance is highly recommended to prevent you from paying out-of-pocket for expensive health care services in case of a health emergency. Purchasing visitors to Canada travel insurance is mandatory if you are applying for super visa for parents and grandparents. 

It is best to purchase visitor to Canada insurance before your arrival. This is because if you purchase the insurance after you arrive, there is a waiting period. A waiting period is an amount of time that you need to wait after purchase or after your arrival in Canada before you’re covered.

Need assistance?

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Have questions and want to speak to a licensed insurance advisor? We can help with that!

Submit a travel claim

Visit our dedicated travel portal to start a claim. First-time on the site? Simply register, activate your account, and sign in.

Explore other travel insurance products

Travel insurance for travelling canadians.

Explore out-of-province or country with less worry with coverage for emergency medical, flight cancellations and delays, and more.

Travel Insurance for Students

Get help with medical expenses when studying away from home – either in Canada or abroad.

1 No coverage is provided for pre-existing medical conditions that existed within 180 days prior to the effective date. For example, if your travel date and policy effective date is June 30 th , then any pre-existing medical conditions that existed between January 1 st and June 30 th are not covered.

2 A pre-existing medical condition is considered stable when all of the following statements are true:

• There has not been any new treatment prescribed or recommended, or change(s) to existing treatment (including a stoppage in treatment), and
• There has not been any change in medication, or any recommendation or starting of a new prescription drug, and
• The medical condition has not become worse, and
• There has not been any new, more frequent or more severe symptoms, and
• There has been no hospitalization or referral to a specialist, and
• There have not been any tests, investigation or treatment recommended, but not yet complete, nor any outstanding test results, and
• There is no planned or pending treatment.

3 A side trip is any trip taken to other countries from Canada (starts and ends in Canada) during the duration of your policy. Side trips do not cover your country of origin. Side trips must not exceed the lesser of 30 days/policy or 49% of the total number of coverage days in your policy.

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Travel insurance

Travel insurance for Canada

Mandy Sleight

Alyce Meserve

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Heidi Gollub

Updated 5:04 a.m. UTC Jan. 25, 2024

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• Travel insurance can cover injuries or illnesses while you’re traveling in Canada, as your domestic health insurance may not travel with you across the border.
• The best travel insurance for Canada will also cover costs associated with trip cancellation, delay and interruption.
• If you plan to travel with high-value items like a laptop, smartphone or camera, ensure the travel insurance you buy has enough per-item coverage for lost, damaged or stolen belongings.

Many U.S. travelers flock to our northern neighbor to take in Canada’s cultural experiences and stunning remote landscapes. While travel insurance isn’t a requirement to enter Canada, it may be worth purchasing for the benefits, like medical insurance, trip cancellation and baggage coverage.

“Even if Canada doesn’t feel too far from the U.S., being out of the country can be stressful, and any unexpected costs that get in your way, from lost baggage to getting sick or injured, can make any mishaps even more upsetting,” said Daniel Durazo, spokesperson for Allianz Global Assistance. “With the right travel insurance policy, you can ease your mind from unexpected travel scenarios or outrageous out-of-pocket bills.” 

Here’s what you should consider when buying travel insurance for Canada.

Understanding travel insurance for Canada 

Understanding Canada travel insurance can make choosing a policy easier. Compare plans to see which policies meet your travel needs. For example, some plans have exclusions for adventure activities, such as rock climbing without equipment, but may offer an adventure sports bundle as an upgrade. 

There are also various limitations on medical coverages, trip delay, trip interruption and trip cancellation benefits that could make one policy better than another for your Canada trip.

It’s best to buy travel insurance soon after making your first trip deposit. This way you’re covered for a longer period, at no additional cost. 

“Travel insurance policies typically only cover unknown and unforeseen situations, from unexpected injuries or illness to flight cancellations and weather-related events,” said Durazo. “If you wait until you have a problem, you likely won’t be covered.”

Buying travel insurance coverage within 14 days of your first trip deposit ensures you get the most benefits. Depending on the plan, buying early could also make you eligible for a pre-existing condition waiver. This means the insurance provider won’t look back at your medical records if you file a claim for a medical condition you already had before buying the policy.

But if you have a trip coming up soon, don’t worry — you can buy a travel insurance policy up to 24 hours before your departure date.

Key coverage considerations for travel insurance in Canada 

The best travel insurance plans bundle together several types of insurance, from trip cancellation insurance to travel medical insurance. No matter what your plans are once you enter Canada, consider these key coverages when researching travel insurance to Canada. 

Trip cancellation insurance  

Sometimes, things happen that require you to cancel your trip. Maybe a family member was going to watch your kids while you’re gone, and they’re now too sick to take care of them. Or severe weather impacts the airline, grounding your flight for the days you planned to be in Canada.

Trip cancellation insurance will reimburse up to 100% of prepaid, nonrefundable expenses, like a flightseeing tour in the Yukon or a Johnston Canyon tour in Banff, if you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason. Other reasons you might have to cancel include family emergency, job loss, severe injury or sickness, terrorism or military deployment. 

However, you can’t cancel for any reason — like a falling out with your travel companion — and get reimbursed, unless you upgrade your travel insurance plan to “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage. Although CFAR can add around 50% to your travel insurance costs, the ability to cancel for any reason and receive up to 75% of your nonrefundable expenses can make the extra expense worth it. Just make sure you cancel at least 48 hours before your departure date and time to get this benefit.

Delays in your Canada trip  

If you’re headed to Canada during winter, severe weather could shut down the airport or cause flight delays. If you’re flying from Baltimore to Whistler with a connection in Chicago, but a winter storm causes delays in Baltimore, you might miss your connecting flight to Vancouver.

Most travel insurance plans will reimburse for meals and hotel accommodation expenses you incur from a travel delay. But to be eligible, the delay usually has to be at least six hours, with some policies requiring 12 consecutive hours before trip delay coverage kicks in. Seven Corners, for instance, will reimburse up to $250 per day per person to a maximum of $2,000 for a delay of at least six hours.

Trip insurance with delay benefits will also reimburse for prepaid expenses you miss out on because of a covered delay. So, if you miss out on your first two days at the ski lodge and can’t transfer or exchange prepaid snowboarding lessons, you can file a claim.

Tackling trip interruption  

The last thing you’d expect while taking in the Halifax, Nova Scotia sites is to have a family emergency back home. If you get a call that your mom fell down the stairs and is in the hospital with a broken leg, you’ll probably be ready to catch the next flight home to be with her.

Luckily, travel insurance includes trip interruption benefits, which can help you get there without a large out-of-pocket expense. Trip interruption coverage will pay for your one-way ticket back home and cover any prepaid accommodations and tours you’ll miss from having to shorten your trip.

Dealing with lost bags and belongings  

Travel insurance will also cover baggage loss and personal items that get damaged, stolen or lost while you’re traveling. So if you check your hiking poles and boots and they get damaged or lost during the flight, your travel insurance will reimburse you for the depreciated cost of those items.

You’ll also have coverage if someone steals your backpack while you’re sightseeing in Toronto. If you’re traveling with high-value items, make sure you have enough coverage. Many travel insurance plans have a $500 to $1,000 cap on certain items like cameras, watches and computers. Some policies also exclude coverage for smartphones.

Making plans for medical bills in Canada

Don’t be surprised if your health insurance provides little to no coverage in Canada or requires you to pay a large out-of-pocket deductible, said Carol Mueller, spokesperson for Berkshire Hathaway. Canada doesn’t accept Medicare from the U.S., and your health insurance won’t cover you unless you have global coverage. The Government of Canada will also not cover hospital and medical expenses for visitors, including American tourists.

Whether you’re planning to hit the slopes, go hiking or just take advantage of what the swanky resort you splurged on has to offer, you never know when you might fall ill or get hurt. This is where travel medical insurance can help. 

Allianz’s OneTrip Prime single-trip plan will pay up to $50,000 for your medical expenses, such as X-rays, prescriptions, doctor’s visits or a hospital stay. Other plans, such as as some in our rating of the best travel insurance for seniors cover up to $500,000.

Even if you’re up-to-date on your COVID-19 vaccines, you might still want to consider a travel insurance plan that covers COVID-related medical treatment, like those in our rating of the best COVID-19 travel insurance .

Evacuation for serious medical issues   

Travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is critical if you plan to travel to remote areas of Canada. The nearest trauma facility equipped to treat your medical emergency might be hundreds of miles away, requiring a medevac to get you there.

If you don’t have medical plan coverage, you could be on the hook for thousands of dollars in medical costs and private medical transportation. Travel insurance provides emergency medical evacuation coverage . 

The Allianz OneTrip Prime and Berkshire Hathaway’s ExactCare travel plans will cover up to $500,000 for emergency medical transportation and repatriation of remains. Travel Guard and Seven Corners plans will each provide up to $1 million. 

What is the cost of Canada travel insurance? 

There are several factors insurers use to determine the cost of a travel insurance policy , including age, trip cost, destination and length of the trip. In general, you can expect travel insurance to cost about 5% to 6% of your total trip cost.  

When calculating the trip expenses to insure, only include those that are nonrefundable. If your prepaid, nonrefundable flights, accommodations and tours total $5,000, you can expect to pay around $275 for travel insurance. You may pay more if you choose a plan with higher coverage limits and upgrades.

Companies use different criteria and weigh factors differently than other providers, so comparing travel insurance policy quotes can help you find the most comprehensive plan for the best price. You can use travel insurance comparison sites like Squaremouth to compare coverage limits and add-on coverage such as rental car, “cancel for any reason” and adventure sports. 

Key benefits of having travel insurance for your Canada trip  

Even though you’re not flying across an ocean, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy a travel insurance plan. Some of the key benefits of having travel insurance for your Canada trip include:

• Not stressing or worrying about not having government health insurance plan coverage since you’re not a Canadian resident.
• Not losing out on your nonrefundable, prepaid trip costs if something unforeseen occurs and you have to cancel your trip or head home early.
• Knowing that if your trip is delayed or canceled, or you lose a bag or get something stolen, you have coverage to recoup at least some of your out-of-pocket costs.

The right travel plan can provide peace of mind, and many policies will pay for themselves if you need to make a claim for a covered reason.

Tips for choosing the best travel insurance provider for your Canada trip  

Comparing travel insurance companies can help you make the right choice when choosing a travel insurance product. Check customer reviews and complaints on websites like Trustpilot. Travel insurance comparison sites like Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip can also help you identify the best travel insurance company and most generous policy.

Don’t be afraid to call an insurance company to ask them “what if?” questions to ensure you’re getting the right policy. “You should feel confident in the coverage you purchase and trust you will receive the level of claims service you deserve if you need to file a claim,” said Mueller.

You should always read the fine print to know your policy’s limitations and exclusions. This includes restrictions on trip delay, cancellation and interruption benefits, and understanding what you’ll need to file a claim for baggage damage, loss, or medical care. 

Tip: Most travel insurance companies offer a 10 to 15 free look period, which allows you to review the policy and cancel it for a full refund if you decide it’s not the best choice.

Other insurance considerations for Canada 

If you’re planning to participate in adventure activities, like dogsledding in the Yukon, kayaking the Johnstone Strait to see orcas or surfing and hiking in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, you want to make sure you’re covered. 

World Nomads Explorer travel insurance plan covers more than 200 adventure activities. You can also get extreme sports coverage, license fees and equipment delay coverage with Berkshire Hathaway’s AdrenalineCare travel plan. Travel Guard offers an Adventure Sports Bundle optional upgrade, which waives benefit exclusions for adventure and extreme activities.

We mentioned CFAR coverage above, but some policies also offer optional “interruption for any reason” (IFAR) coverage. It works like CFAR, allowing you to end your trip early for any reason, not just those listed in your policy. Seven Corners offers a CFAR and IFAR upgrade for up to 75% of nonrefundable trip costs as long as you purchase it within 20 days of your first trip payment.

Road trips are also a popular way to see Canada’s beauty. If you plan to rent a car, it may be worth getting rental vehicle coverage if your credit card doesn’t offer it. World Nomads will cover up to $35,000 in collision damage waiver, while Travel Guard’s rental vehicle damage coverage will pay up to $50,000 in damage to your rental vehicle. Note that this coverage does not include liability insurance , if you are at fault for an accident that results in injuries or damage to others’ property. Check with your car insurance company to make sure your U.S. auto insurance coverage extends to driving in Canada. 

Travel insurance for Canada FAQs

Travel insurance is not a requirement to travel to Canada. However, travel insurance will provide travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation coverage, as well as benefits for lost or delayed baggage, trip delay, cancellation or interruption and sometimes missed connections. 

The average cost of travel insurance is around 5% to 6% of your travel costs to Canada. Your age, trip cost and other factors determine how much you’ll pay for travel insurance.

To find the best travel insurance for Canada, fill out a brief online form on an insurer’s website with your name, age, address and details about your trip, like the total cost and number of travelers. A travel insurance comparison site like Squaremouth allows you to fill out one application and get multiple quotes at the same time. 

The best travel insurance in Canada depends on where you’re going, what activities you’re doing and the types of coverage you need. After comparing dozens of providers, we found WorldTrips , Travel Insured and TravelSafe are among the best travel insurance companies .

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Mandy is an insurance writer who has been creating online content since 2018. Before becoming a full-time freelance writer, Mandy spent 15 years working as an insurance agent. Her work has been published in Bankrate, MoneyGeek, The Insurance Bulletin, U.S. News and more.

Alyce Meserve is an experienced insurance, personal finance and travel writer. Alyce is a licensed insurance professional in life, health and property and casualty, and holds an Executive Certificate in Financial Planning from Duke University.

Heidi Gollub is the USA TODAY Blueprint managing editor of insurance. She was previously lead editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor and led the insurance team at U.S. News & World Report as assistant managing editor of 360 Reviews. Heidi has an MBA from Emporia State University and is a licensed property and casualty insurance expert.

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Trip interruption and travel health insurance

If you plan to travel outside Canada—even for a day in the United States—you should buy trip interruption and travel health insurance before you leave.

On this page

Where you can get trip interruption and travel health insurance, why you should buy travel health insurance, choose the best insurance based on your needs, if you need to make a claim, if you live or work outside canada, if you need help while outside canada.

You can buy trip interruption and travel health insurance directly with an insurance company or through:

• a travel agent
• an insurance broker
• an employer’s insurance provider
• a credit card company

If you encounter a medical emergency while abroad, you should know the following:

• Your medical bills may not be paid by your personal Canadian health insurance
• Your provincial or territorial health plan may cover none, or only a small part, of the costs of your medical care abroad including a medical evacuation, if needed. It will never pay your bills up front
• Hospitals and clinics in other countries can be very expensive and may require immediate cash payment
• In some countries, hospitals and clinics will not treat you if you don’t have enough insurance or money to pay your bills
• The Government of Canada will not pay your medical bills

What your travel health insurance should cover

No matter where you’re travelling, your travel health insurance policy should always cover 3 things:

1. Medical evacuation

Make sure your policy covers medical evacuation to Canada or to the nearest place with medical care. The policy should also cover the costs of a medical escort to travel with you to your destination.

2. Pre-existing medical conditions

Ask the insurance provider to explain the definition of and the limitations and restrictions on any pre-existing conditions and tests and treatments you may have had:

• Make sure you get a written agreement that your insurance covers your pre-existing medical condition, otherwise you could find your claim “null and void” under a pre-existing condition clause.
• no changes to your medical condition
• no new medical conditions, symptoms or medications during the stability period before your trip.
• a compassion clause saying that an inaccurate statement may not invalidate the entire policy
• a change-of-health clause.

3. Repatriation in case of death

Make sure that your plan includes everything to help your loved ones if you die outside Canada as the result of an accident or a sudden and unexpected illness.

Your insurance should cover:

• the preparation and return of your remains
• local cremation or burial outside Canada
• additional expenses if someone needs to travel to identify your body

Learn more about what to do if a Canadian dies outside Canada.

Why you should buy trip interruption insurance

Trip interruption insurance is different from medical travel insurance. Trip interruption insurance provides coverage for situations that lead you to have to cancel a part of your trip once you’ve departed. It will reimburse the unused portion of your trip if you must return early, due to an unforeseen incident.

It’s also different from trip cancellation coverage, which applies only when you cancel your trip before it starts.

Research your needs. Verify the terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions and requirements of your insurance policy before you leave Canada.

When assessing a travel health insurance plan, you should ask a lot of questions:

• Plans with 100% coverage are more expensive but may save you money in the long run
• Does the plan offer continuous coverage for the length of your stay outside Canada and after your return?
• Does the plan exclude or limit coverage for certain regions or countries you may visit?
• Travel health insurance rarely covers routine health checkups, non-emergency care or cosmetic surgery.
• It may not cover mental health disorders.
• Does the plan cover drug or alcohol-related incidents? 
• Does the plan exclude coverage for activities such as mountaineering, skiing, scuba diving or extreme sports?
• Does it offer coverage that is renewable from abroad and for the maximum period of stay?
• Does the company have an in-house, worldwide, 24-hour/7-day emergency contact number in English and/or translation services for health care providers in your destination country?
• Does it pay for hospitalization for illness or injury and related medical costs at your destination?
• Does it pay your bills or provide cash advances up front, so you don’t have to pay them?

If you’re driving, make sure you have driver and vehicle coverage in case you have an accident.

If you’re flying, make sure you get insurance for trip interruption, lost luggage and document replacement. You may also want to consider trip cancellation insurance.

Meet the terms of your policy

It’s your responsibility to know and understand the terms of your insurance policy. Read the fine print and ask for help if you need it.

The information you provide must be accurate and complete. If you have any questions, contact the insurance company. Ask them to send you a written explanation.

Carry your insurance information with you and leave a copy with a friend or relative at home.

Get a detailed report and invoice from your doctor or hospital before leaving the country where you received medical treatment. Trying to get the proper paperwork from thousands of kilometres away can be frustrating.

Always submit the original receipts for medical services or prescriptions you received abroad. Keep a copy of the documents for your files.

Effects of travel advisories on travel insurance policies

Many travel insurance policies will not cover you if you travel to regions where the Government of Canada has issued a travel advisory to “avoid all non-essential travel” or “avoid all travel.”

The Government of Canada is not responsible for travel insurance policies nor how Travel Advice and Advisories may affect travel insurance policies. The Government of Canada does not issue its Travel Advice and Advisories for the purpose of travel insurance coverage or refunds.

Canada’s Travel Advice and Advisories provide information and recommendations about safety and security conditions in destinations around the world to help you make informed decisions.

We issue travel advisories when the security or health situation in a country or region may pose a significant threat to the personal safety and security of Canadians travelling or living there.

As new information becomes available, we review the level of risk. A travel advisory for a destination may be issued, upgraded, downgraded or removed.

Before you book your trip and buy insurance, check the details of any insurance policy you’re considering and the travel advice and advisories for your destination.

Travel insurance is not intended to be used when you are living outside Canada for an extended period, or permanently.

If you live abroad or you’re planning to, consider your insurance needs. Local laws may require that you have medical insurance, and you may have to include proof of medical insurance with your visa application.

If you study outside Canada

If you study or plan to study outside Canada, contact your educational institution or program administrator for advice on the insurance coverage you need.

The Government of Canada is limited in the help it can provide you when you are outside Canada.

See the services available at our consular offices outside Canada.

Our travel advice and advisories provide recommendations about safety and security conditions outside Canada to help you make informed decisions. The decision to travel is yours and you’re responsible for your personal safety abroad.

Whether you are planning a vacation or living outside Canada, sign up for the free Registration of Canadians Abroad service so that we can notify you in case of an emergency outside Canada.

For help with emergencies outside Canada, contact the:

• nearest Canadian office abroad
• Emergency Watch and Response Centre in Ottawa

Related links

• Say yes to travel insurance
• Bon voyage, but…
• Well on your way
• A guide to travel health insurance (Canadian Life and Health Insurance Association)
• Guide to travel health insurance (International Association for Medical Assistance to Travellers)
• Tips for healthy travel

Safe Visit | Canada Visitors Travel Health Insurance - Medical Insurance Quote.

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On This Page

• Key takeaways

Does US health insurance work in Canada?

Why should i get travel insurance for my trip to canada, our best travel insurance for visitors to canada, how much does travel insurance for canada cost, what types of travel insurance do i need for canada, what doesn’t travel insurance for a trip to canada cover, tips for choosing the best travel insurance for canada, canada entry requirements & travel information, canada travel insurance faqs, related topics.

Travel Insurance to Canada: Plans for US Visitors

• Despite having a robust public health system, there is no free health insurance in Canada for visitors, and most US health insurance will not work in Canada.
• You’ll have to pay out of pocket for any medical treatment you receive while in Canada unless you have a travel insurance policy.
• Based on our research, our top picks for Canada travel insurance come from Tin Leg, Seven Corners, Generali Global Assistance, Travel Insured International, and IMG . ( skip ahead to view these insurance plans )
• To help you find the right travel insurance for your trip to Canada, try using an online comparison tool . This way you can get multiple quotes and compare your options easily in one place.

Our top picks for the best canada travel insurance

• Tin Leg: Best for High Medical Coverage
• Seven Corners: Best Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions
• Generali Global Assistance: Best Basic Coverage
• Travel Insured International: Best for Medical Evacuation Coverage
• IMG: Best for Travelers Aged 80+

Our top picks for the best travel insurance for Canada

Seven Corners

Generali global assistance.

US government health plans such as Medicare, Medicaid, Tricare, and the State Children’s Health Insurance Program will not pay for health care while in Canada . This includes treatment such as hospital visits and the supply of prescription drugs.

The only exceptions to these rules are where you require emergency medical treatment within the US and the closest hospital is across the Canadian border. Also, if you are passing through Canada between Alaska and a US state and a medical emergency arises.

When planning your visit to Canada, insurance may not be top of mind. However, an emergency can happen at any time, making travel insurance helpful in the following situations:

• Accidents: If you’re in a car accident, fall down the stairs at your hotel, or injure yourself while sightseeing, travel medical insurance will cover the cost of diagnosing and treating your injuries.
• Illnesses: Even if you’re healthy, there’s a chance you could come down with food poisoning, develop appendicitis, or display symptoms of another serious illness while you’re in Canada. If this happens, your American health insurance won’t foot the bill, nor will Canada’s publicly funded health care system. Travel insurance will cover your medical expenses, including X-rays, blood tests, CT scans, physical exams, and medications.
• Cancellations : No matter how much planning you do, there’s always a chance that you’ll have to cancel your trip due to an emergency. If you don’t have travel insurance, you may not be able to get any of your money back.
• Medical evacuation : If your travel plans include rural areas with limited access to health care services, you may need to be evacuated to another area. Travel insurance often includes coverage for medical evacuations.

Best for High Medical Coverage

Why we like it.

Editor's take

Tin Leg’s Gold policy is renowned for offering top-quality travel insurance at reasonable prices and at a competitive rate.

AM Best rates all of Tin Leg’s policies at A- or higher when it comes to their financial strength and Tin Leg’s Gold plan is no different. What makes this policy stand out is its great medical and evacuation coverage limits, all offered at an affordable price.

With both trip cancellation and interruption coverage offered for numerous instances, including COVID-19, you will covered should the worst happen while visiting Canada. The high coverage of $500,000 for emergency medical expenses and up to $500,000 in emergency medical evacuation coverage both make the Tin Leg Gold policy a popular travel insurance choice.

Read our full review

• Excellent primary coverage for medical expenses
• High limit for emergency evacuation coverage
• Optional cancel for any reason (CFAR) coverage available
• Comes with coverage for hurricanes and inclement weather
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions is available if purchased within 14 days of the trip deposit
• Baggage delay coverage requires a 24-hour waiting period
• Low coverage limits for baggage and personal effects

Best Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions

This Trip Protection Choice plan from Seven Corners offers great all-around coverage at a competitive price. Although at the lower end of the price spectrum, Trip Protection Choice provides travelers to Canada with a reassuring $500,000 in primary medical coverage. To match this high level of coverage, this plan from Seven Corners also offers $1 million in medevac and repatriation coverage, which is some of the highest around.

Further popular additions include trip cancellation, interruption, and delay coverage, accidental death & dismemberment coverage, baggage damage and loss coverage, and a 14-day money-back guarantee.

Trip Protection Choice is a great choice for those with pre-existing conditions. The pre-existing conditions waiver stipulates you can be covered if:

• The policy payment & enrollment form is received within 20 days of the initial trip payments/deposits and within 15 days of payment for any subsequent travel arrangements added to your trip
• You or your traveling companion are medically able to travel and at the time your premium is paid based on the assessment of a physician.
• Offers coverage for pre-existing conditions
• Money-back guarantee
• Cancellation & Interruption coverage standard
• Covers action sports & equipment
• Cancel for any reason not included standard
• Must meet waiver for pre-existing conditions to be covered

Best Basic Coverage

Generali Global Assistance offers high coverage limits for medical expenses, emergency dental expenses, emergency medical evacuation coverage, and so much more for your visit to Canada. With an A rating from AM Best, it is no wonder that Generali Global Assistance is one of the more popular choices when it comes to travel insurance.

Generali Global Assistance’s Standard plan is fantastic for those who are looking for basic coverage at an affordable price. Offering both trip cancellation and interruption, this standard plan is perfect for countering those unforeseen circumstances.

Other Standard plan perks include $1,000 per person in baggage coverage, up to $50,000 in medical coverage, and $250,000 in medical evacuation coverage.

• Lowest cost of all Generali Global Assistance plans
• 24/7 emergency travel assistance included
• Telemedicine included
• Lower coverage than other Generali plans
• Pre-existing conditions are not covered by the Standard plan
• No coverage for accidental death and dismemberment during on-land travel

Best for Medical Evacuation Coverage

Travel insured international.

Travel Insured International’s Worldwide Trip Protector offers superior coverage and is ideal for those looking to take a trip over the border to Canada. This plan covers 100% of the insured trip cost due to cancellation, 150% of the insured trip cost due to interruption, and $1,500 for trip delays.

A popular perk is the Worldwide Trip Protector $500 coverage for baggage delays after only 3 hours. When it comes to medical coverage, Worldwide Trip Protector provides $100,000 of secondary medical coverage and $1 million of evacuation coverage - ideal if the worst should happen in the Canadian wilderness.

• Travel delay coverage kicks in after just six hours
• Generous $150,000 non-medical evacuation coverage
• CFAR and IFAR coverage not included
• Baggage delay coverage only kicks in after 12 hours
• No rental car coverage

Best for Travelers Aged 80+

IMG’s iTravelInsured Travel LX Basic is a great plan for travelers of all ages and offers fantastic coverage for surprisingly low prices. For example, with this plan, you will be covered for up to $500,000 of primary emergency medical coverage - meaning you won’t be out of pocket and waiting for a reimbursement while traveling.

This plan also comes with travel cancellation, interruption, and travel delay coverage as well as $40,000 in rental car damage protection included. Protection for baggage delays and baggage loss also comes standard.

Elderly travelers to Canada will also see the appeal of the iTravelInsured Travel LX Basic’s ‘look-back period of 60 days’ This means it only considers pre-existing conditions as “an illness, disease, or other condition during the 60-day period immediately prior to the date your coverage begins.”

• 10-day money back guarantee
• Generous limits for trip delays, emergency evacuation, and more
• Coronavirus-related medical expenses covered
• Rental car coverage included
• Recently developed pre-existing conditions may not be covered
• CFAR and IFAR coverage only available as an add-on with premium plans

According to official sales data from Squaremouth , travel insurance for Canada averages at around $238.46.

Based on our official sales figures over the past year, our customers’ average travel insurance costs for Canada are £221.97.

Comprehensive travel Insurance for Canada costs around $8 to $10 per day. That said, you can usually find plans that cost as little as around $1 per day for the cheapest, most basic coverage .

To give you some examples of the travel insurance costs for Canada, we got price quotes from a few popular companies.

The table below shows quotes for basic travel insurance plans.

Cost Example Where Travel Insurance Plan Doesn’t Reimburse the Full Trip Cost

While searching for a travel insurance plan, you may wish to have more comprehensive protection for your trip to Canada. To give you an idea of how much this costs, we compared quotes for plans that reimburse the full cost of a trip for the table below.

Cost Example Where Travel Insurance Plan Reimburses the Full Trip Cost

The above quotes were for a 35-year-old going on a 7-day trip to Canada in September 2024 that cost a total of $2,000. When searching for travel insurance, keep in mind that several factors impact how much you’ll pay.

Factors that influence the cost of travel insurance include:

• Your age: Even if you’re in good health, your risk of developing medical problems increases as you age. Insurance companies charge higher premiums for travel insurance for seniors to account for their increased risk.
• The cost of your trip: The more you spend on your trip, the more an insurance company is likely to owe you if you have to file a claim. Therefore, insurers charge more to cover expensive trips.
• The length of your trip: The longer you plan to travel, the more you can expect to pay for travel insurance.
• Your destination: Your insurance company may charge more for some destinations than others, increasing your cost of coverage.

Travel insurance plans are typically divided into two distinct categories:

Medical-based travel insurance

• Comprehensive travel insurance

What is included in your overall coverage depends on the type of policy you purchase.

The most basic level of travel insurance for Canada visits should be a policy that is medical-based. Medical insurance for Canada is often the cheapest level of insurance you can buy. Medical insurance will cover you should you experience any illness or accidents during your vacation.

As noted above, Medicare and other US private insurers won’t cover you while you are in Canada, so those without medical-based travel insurance will be left out of pocket should the worst happen. Therefore, when visiting Canada, health insurance should be at the top of your travel checklist.

Medical-based travel insurance policies usually cover two separate coverage limits for medical emergencies and emergency medical evacuations:

• Emergency medical insurance : At a minimum, we recommend getting a plan that provides health insurance for visitors to Canada. Travel medical insurance covers a wide range of health care expenses. For example, if you develop a health condition after eating contaminated food, travel medical insurance should cover the cost of blood tests, IV fluids, and other types of medical care.
• Medevac insurance: You may be used to having a hospital within just a few miles of your home. When you’re traveling, that’s not always the case, especially if you plan to spend time in a national park or hunt in the Canadian wilderness. Medical evacuation insurance , or medevac, pays to transport you to the nearest suitable medical facility if you develop a serious illness or injury during your trip.

Medical plans will not include far more in-depth travel insurance add-ons such as trip cancellations or trip cost reimbursement. If you require this additional coverage, you will need to purchase a more comprehensive travel insurance plan.

Comprehensive travel coverage

When selecting a travel insurance policy, you have the option of purchasing plans that reimburse you for non-refundable prepaid trip expenses and plans that don’t. You may want to be insured for things such as trip cancellations, trip interruptions, travel delays, and the loss of personal items. If this is the case, you will need to select an insurance policy that covers you for trip cost reimbursement.

Some medical-based plans may reimburse you for a canceled or interrupted trip if it is the result of a pre-covered illness or injury. However, your trip may be interrupted or canceled based on unforeseen events such as a terrorist attack or natural disaster. In this case, you will need to purchase a policy that covers cancellation and interruption coverage for prepaid, nonrefundable expenses to make a claim.

Further below , you will see a cost example that shows the difference in prices of medical-based plans versus comprehensive travel insurance coverage.

Optional Add-ons

Some travel insurance plans will also offer cancel for any reason (CFAR) insurance . With this type of coverage, you can cancel your travel plans for any reason at all and still get back around 50% to 75% of your prepaid travel expenses. Including this will allow you far more flexibility should you change your Canadian vacation plans.

Generally speaking, most travel insurance policies exclude coverage for the following scenarios:

• Claims resulting from illegal activities
• Claims related to medical tourism
• Injuries resulting from intoxication from drugs or alcohol
• Cancellations due to fear COVID-19 (See COVID-19 travel plans)

Aside from the highly obvious reasons, some travel insurance providers will also include restrictions are the following situations :

• Pre-existing medical conditions: Unless you have a waiver, most travel insurance plans do not cover pre-existing conditions . To qualify for a waiver, you typically must purchase your travel insurance plan within 14 to 15 days of making your initial trip deposit.
• Adventure sports : Standard travel insurance plans won’t usually cover injuries associated with skiing, rock climbing, and other adventure activities you may do on your Canadian vacation. If you plan to do these types of activities, make sure to purchase coverage that includes these types of sports.
• Pregnancy-related care: Regular wellness care and normal delivery are not covered by travel insurance. However, emergency care that you require while traveling while pregnant may still be covered.
• Non-emergency medical care : Non-emergency procedures that can wait until you return home are not covered by travel insurance.

Before you purchase travel insurance for your trip to Canada, follow these tips to find the best plan :

Shop around and compare

Just because a plan has the highest premium doesn’t mean it offers the best coverage. Use the LA Times Comparison Tool to determine which company offers the most benefits at the lowest price.

Think about additional coverages you may need

Travel insurance doesn’t usually cover injuries associated with skiing, rock climbing, and other adventure activities. If you plan to do one of these activities, look for a plan that includes extra coverage.

Adjust your transportation plans

Travel insurance doesn’t cover trip delays unless you’re traveling via a common carrier. You may want to adjust your transportation plans to ensure that you’re eligible for this type of coverage.

Purchase a policy early

You may be able to get a better deal on travel insurance if you purchase a plan as soon as you make your initial trip deposit.

Buy coverage based on seasonal risks you face

The season in which you visit Canada can greatly influence the risks you face. Apart from this, some travel insurance plans may not cover certain sports or seasonal activities. It’s important to consider things like winter or summer sports and look for plans that offer adequate coverage. Below are some common examples of seasonal risks.

Hazards in Canada’s national parks

Canada is home to 38 national parks. These great expanses of wilderness are incredible places to explore and are populated with wildlife of all kinds. These parks offer great opportunities to hike, ski, climb, and camp. As we can see from the official Canadian National Park website , they are also volatile regions, susceptible to extreme weather fronts and close encounters with potentially dangerous animals.

Travel insurance for emergency medical evacuation, medical coverage, and adventure sports coverage are a must while exploring the vastness of the Canadian wilderness. However, not all plans automatically cover adventure activities, so it is important to compare plans before purchasing.

Wildfire season

Wildfire season in Canada typically runs from May through to October. In recent years, particularly in the west of the country, Canada has begun to experience far more extreme and prolonged wildfires. While predicting the movement of wildfires and their effects can be difficult, downloading local alert apps and keeping yourself updated via government websites all help avoid any disastrous situations.

Ensure your travel insurance policy has high-quality emergency evacuation and trip cancellation insurance. This will allow you to be far more prepared and flexible should wildfires affect your vacation plans.

Winter weather

Canada’s winter weather can be some of the most extreme in all of North America and the beginning of 2024 brought one of the worst snow storms of recent years . Having high-quality emergency evacuation and trip cancellation insurance will ensure you are covered should your trip be hit by heavy snow storms and adverse weather conditions.

Winter sports

Canada is famous the world over for its winter sports. Numerous tourists come to Canada every year to experience the thrill of skiing, snowboarding, and riding snowmobiles on its many trails. As highlighted in Canada’s official government website on the issue, you should take extreme caution by avoiding closed trails and keeping up-to-date with local weather reports, especially where there is a risk of avalanches and winter storms.

Similarly to those exploring Canada’s grand national parks, it’s advisable to ensure your policy offers adventure sports coverage and emergency medical evacuation coverage, should the worst happen during your trip.

The table below provides an overview of entry requirements and travel information for your trip to Canada from the United States, according to the US Department of State .

Do I need a passport to visit Canada?

Yes. Under the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative , all U.S. citizens must present a valid passport when crossing the US-Canada border.

Do I need to be vaccinated to go to Canada?

No. Canada travel restrictions don’t include any vaccine-related requirements for American citizens .

Do Americans need travel insurance in Canada?

You may not have to use your travel insurance in Canada, but, it’s worth bearing in mind that you won’t be financially covered for medical expenses if you require emergency care.

That means that the Canadian government will charge you for any treatment received and you could be left out of pocket should anything unexpected happen. This is also the case even if the services or medications provided would normally be covered in the United States.

Do I need travel insurance to visit Canada?

You are not legally required to buy travel insurance to visit Canada, but it should be a top priority. You should always purchase travel insurance before you travel outside the United States. This type of insurance reimburses you for expenses associated with trip cancellation, trip delays, and other travel issues, limiting your losses.

Can I use my US health insurance in Canada?

No. Both private and government-sponsored health insurance plans only cover expenses incurred in the United States.

Do I need travel health insurance for Canada?

It’s a good idea to purchase travel medical insurance before you go abroad. This type of insurance covers emergency transportation, physical exams, diagnostic tests, medications, surgical procedures, and other health expenses. Most travel insurance plans will also include coverage for COVID-19 as standard.

Can Americans travel to Canada without a COVID-19 test?

No. Canada no longer requires tourists from the United States to take a COVID-19 test or quarantine before entering the country.

What happens if I get sick in Canada?

If you get sick in Canada and don’t have travel medical insurance, you will have to pay for your own hospital or medical services. This is why it’s so important to purchase travel insurance with medical coverage before you embark on your trip.

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Top Travel Insurances for Canada You Should Know in 2024

Byron Mühlberg

Monito's Managing Editor, Byron has spent several years writing extensively about financial- and migration-related topics.

Links on this page, including products and brands featured on ‘Sponsored’ content, may earn us an affiliate commission. This does not affect the opinions and recommendations of our editors.

Canada is a massive country known for its natural splendour, including the Rocky Mountains, the Northern Lights, and Niagara Falls, as well as its energetic cities like Toronto, Montreal, and Vancouver. Although travelling to Canada can be an accessible holiday destination for many people, out-the-pocket healthcare costs in the country tend to be expensive, so it's a very good idea to arrive there with travel insurance under your belt.

Luckily, online global insurances (known as 'insurtechs') specialize in cost-savvy travel insurance to Canada and other countries worldwide. Our list below explores the four services we believe provide the best deals for young travellers, adventurers, everyday holidaymakers looking for comprehensive but affordable coverage, and longer-term expats.

Canada Insurance Profile

Here are a few of the many factors influencing the scope and cost of travel insurances for Canada:

Best Travel Insurances for Canada

• 01. Should I get travel insurance for Canada? scroll down
• 02. Best medical coverage: VisitorsCoverage scroll down
• 03. Best trip insurance: Insured Nomads scroll down
• 04. Best mix for youth and digitial nomads: SafetyWing scroll down
• 05. FAQ about travel insurance to Canada scroll down

Heading to Canada soon? Don't forget to check the following list before you travel:

• 💳 Eager to dodge high FX fees? See our picks for the best travel cards in 2024.
• 🛂 Need a visa? Let iVisa take care of it for you.
• ✈ Looking for flights? Compare on Skyscanner !
• 💬 Want to learn the local language? Babbel and italki are two excellent apps to think about.
• 💻 Want a VPN? ExpressVPN is the market leader for anonymous and secure browsing.

Do I Need Travel Insurance for Canada?

No, there's currently no legal requirement to take out travel insurance for travel to or through Canada.

However, regardless of whether or not it's legally required, it's always a good idea to take our health insurance before you travel — whether to Canada or anywhere else. For what's usually an affordable cost , taking out travel insurance will mitigate most or all of the risk of financial damage if you run into any unexpected troubles during your trip abroad. Take a look at the top five reasons to get travel insurance to learn more.

With that said, here are the top three travel insurances for Canada:

VisitorsCoverage: Best Medical Coverage

Among the internet's best-known insurance platforms,  VisitorsCoverage  is a pioneering Silicon Valley insurtech company that offers comprehensive medical coverage for travellers going abroad to Canada. It lets you choose between various plans tailored to meet the specific needs of your trip to Canada, including coverage for medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and travel disruptions. With its easy online purchase process and 24/7 live chat support, VisitorsCoverage is a reliable and convenient option if you want good value and peace of mind while travelling abroad.

• Coverage 9.0
• Quality of Service 9.0
• Pricing 7.6
• Credibility 9.5

VisitorsCoverage offers a large variety of policies and depending on your needs and preferences, you'll need to compare and explore their full catalogue of plans for yourself. However, we've chosen a few highlights for their travel insurance for Canada:

• Policy names: Varies
• Medical coverage: Very good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, mental health-related conditions, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Excellent - but only available for US residents.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat and phone support
• Pricing range: USD 25 to USD 150 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: Lloyd's, Petersen, and others
• Best for: Value for money and overall medical coverage

Insured Nomads: Best Trip Coverage

Insured Nomads is another very good travel insurance option, especially if you're adventurous or frequently on the go and are looking for solid trip insurance with some coverage for medical incidents too. With Insured Nomads, you can choose the level of protection that best suits your needs and enjoy a wide range of benefits, including 24/7 assistance, coverage for risky activities and adventure sports, and the ability to add or remove coverage as needed. In addition, Insured Nomads has a reputation for providing fast and efficient claims service, making it an excellent choice if you want peace of mind while exploring the world.

• Coverage 7.8
• Quality of Service 8.5
• Pricing 7.4
• Credibility 8.8

Insured Nomads offers three travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences. We go through them below:

• Policy names: World Explorer, World Explorer Multi, World Explorer Guardian
• Medical coverage: Good. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, pre-existing conditions, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Good. Includes coverage for trip cancellation and interruption, lost or stolen luggage (with limits), adventure and sports activities, and many others.
• Customer support: FAQ, live chat, phone support
• Pricing range: USD 80 to USD 420 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: David Shield Insurance Company Ltd.
• Best for: Adventure seekers wanting comprehensive trip insurance

SafetyWing: Best Combination For Youth

SafetyWing is a good insurance option for younger travellers or digital nomads because it offers flexible but comprehensive coverage at a famously affordable price. With SafetyWing, you can enjoy peace of mind knowing you're covered for unexpected medical expenses, trip cancellations, lost or stolen luggage, and more. In addition, SafetyWing's user-friendly website lets you manage your policy, file a claim, and access 24/7 assistance from anywhere in the world, and, unlike VisitorsCoverage, you can even purchase a policy retroactively (e.g. during a holiday)!

• Coverage 7.0
• Quality of Service 8.0
• Pricing 6.3
• Credibility 7.3

SafetyWing offers two travel insurance policies depending on your needs and preferences, which we've highlighted below:

• Policy names: Nomad Insurance, Remote Health
• Medical coverage: Decent. Includes coverage for doctor and hospital visits, repatriation, and many others.
• Trip coverage: Decent. Includes attractive coverage for lost or stolen belongings, adventure and sports activities, transport cancellation, and many others.
• Pricing range: USD 45 to USD 160 /traveller /month
• Insurance underwriter: Tokyo Marine HCC
• Best for: Digital nomads, youth, long-term travellers

How Do They Compare?

Interested to see how VisitorsCoverage, SafetyWing, and Insured Nomads compare as travel insurances to Canada? Take a look at the side-by-side chart below:

Data correct as of 4/1/2024

FAQ About Travel Insurance to Canada

Travel insurance typically covers trip cancellation, trip interruption, lost or stolen luggage, travel delay, and emergency evacuation. Some travel insurance packages also cover medical-related incidents too. However, remember that the exact coverage depends on the insurance policy.

No, you'll not be required to take out travel insurance for Canada. However, we strongly encourage you to do so anyway, because the cost of healthcare in Canada can be high, and taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself if you need medical attention during your stay.

Yes, medical travel insurance is almost always worth it, and we recommend taking out travel insurance whenever visiting a foreign country. Taking out travel insurance will mitigate some or all of the risk of covering those costs yourself in case you need medical attention during your stay. In general, we recommend VisitorsCoverage to travellers worldwide because it offers excellent value for money and well-rounded travel and medical benefits in its large catalogue of plans.

Health insurance doesn't cover normal holiday expenses, such as coverage for missed flights and hotels, but in case you run into medical trouble while abroad, it may cover some or all of your doctor or hospital expenses while overseas. However, not all health insurance providers and plans offer coverage to customers while abroad, and that's why it's generally best to take out travel insurance whenever you travel.

Although there's overlap, health and travel insurance are not exactly the same. Health insurance covers some or all of the cost of medical expenses (e.g. emergency treatment, doctor's visits, etc.) while travel insurance covers non-medical costs that are commonly associated with travelling (e.g. coverage for missed flights, stolen or lost personal belongings, etc.).

The cost of travel insurance depends on several factors, such as the length of the trip, the destination, the age of the traveller, and the level of coverage desired. On average, travel insurance can cost anywhere between 3% and 10% of the total cost of the trip.

A single-trip travel insurance policy covers a specific trip, while an annual one covers multiple trips taken within a one-year period. An annual policy may be more cost-effective for frequent travellers.

Yes, you can sometimes purchase travel insurance after starting your trip, but it is best to buy it before the trip begins to ensure maximum coverage. If you do need to buy insurance after you've started your trip, we recommend VisitorsCoverage , which offers a wide catalogue of online trip and medical insurance policies, most of which can be booked with immediate effect. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

Yes, you can most certainly purchase travel insurance for a trip that has already been booked, although we recommend purchasing insurance as soon as possible aftwerwards to ensure all coverage is in place before your journey begins. Check out our guide to buying travel insurance late to learn more.

See Our Other Travel Insurance Guides

Looking for Travel Insurance to Another Country?

See our recommendations for travel insurance to other countries worldwide:

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Canadian travel and health insurance for American travellers to Canada

Updated on April 24, 2024

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When searching for travel and health insurance for Canada, there are a lot of options available, especially for American travellers who are just a quick drive or flight away. Canada and the United States have always enjoyed a close relationship and if you’re planning a trip or a move, or recently arrived, then now is the time to explore your options.

While the Covid-19 pandemic hit the brakes on much Canada-bound travel from the US, Americans can now freely cross into Canada via air or land and indulge in their favourite Canadian activities. Whether you love to eat poutine in Montreal, enjoy an NHL hockey game in Edmonton, or hike through the stunning lakes and soaring mountains of British Columbia, there are tons of activities available to our American neighbours (that’s how we spell it up here) south of the border.

However, because Canada and the United States are so close together, many travellers coming from the US make the mistake of believing that they don’t need travel or health insurance for Canada. This can be a mistake that could have major financial and other consequences.

Today, we’re taking an in-depth look at Canadian travel and health insurance and why it’s important.

Why Do American Travellers Need Travel or Health Insurance for Canada?

One of Canada’s most well-known attributes is its publicly funded healthcare system . While this is available to new permanent residents of Canada , it does not cover services accessed by tourists or travellers who are only in the country temporarily. Even temporary foreign workers and international students might not have their healthcare needs covered by the publicly-funded healthcare system.

If you are injured or ill while visiting Canada, you can access healthcare but you will have to pay for it out-of-pocket. Even if you have health insurance that covers you at home, domestic health insurance or Medicare typically offers little to no coverage when you are outside the United States.

That’s why so many American travellers choose to obtain insurance for their trips to Canada. If you’d like to check out what options are available to you, we’ve partnered with Cigna , a leading provider of Canadian travel and health insurance, to offer free and fast quotes for coverage that are customized to your needs. Get your free quote today !

As an American travelling to Canada, what should my Canadian travel and health insurance cover?

When it comes to Canadian travel and health insurance, not every plan offers the same coverage. However, there are a few important elements that appear in most plans. Let’s break down the most important elements you should consider as an American travelling to Canada:

• Emergency medical & hospitalization: Having coverage for unexpected medical expenses is one of the most important elements of any travel insurance plan. In order to avoid costly medical bills, ensure your Canadian travel insurance and/or international health insurance covers emergency medical expenses like ambulance services, medical bills, and hospitalization.
• Medical evacuation : Canada is a large country, and if you get seriously ill or injured in a place without the appropriate facilities, you will need to be airlifted out to ensure you get the necessary treatment. A good travel and health insurance plan should offer some coverage for medical evacuation.
• Pre-existing conditions : If you have a pre-existing medical condition, you will need to ensure that your travel insurance offers coverage for it. Otherwise, if you have a health complication, you may find yourself having to pay out of pocket.
• Repatriation : No one wants to plan for the worst, but sometimes it’s a necessity. Repatriation is a type of coverage that ensures your remains can be returned to the States if you were to pass away while in Canada.
• Trip Cancellation/Trip Interruption : These two types of coverage offer some repayment if your trip has to be cancelled or is interrupted for any reason.
• Baggage Loss/Delay : Ever been on a trip where your luggage has been lost, and you’re forced to wear the same clothes for days? This coverage will reimburse you a set amount of money towards new clothing if your baggage is lost or delayed on your trip.

Canadian Travel Insurance Considerations for Different Types of American Travellers

Not every American travelling to Canada has the same exact needs for their travel insurance. Depending on your immigration status, age, health, and length of stay, there may be special considerations you need to keep in mind.

Tourists and Visitors

Even if you’re only visiting Canada from the United States for a short time, the last thing you want is for your trip to be cancelled or delayed because of circumstances beyond your control. This can happen more often than we think.

If you’re going to be away from the United States for any period of time, you’ll want to obtain travel insurance (which covers you for cancellations, baggage loss, and other travel-related delays and interruptions) as well as international health insurance, which protects you from having to pay out of pocket for treatment when you’re outside of the United States.

Start exploring your travel insurance and health insurance options by getting a free quote from Cigna !

When you’re studying in Canada for months or years, considerations related to travel delays become less important. Instead, you should prioritize student health insurance plans that offer reliable and consistent coverage for illnesses and injuries.

Many schools have a mandatory insurance plan that all students must enrol in, or they may have a set of specifications for your insurance that must be followed to ensure admission. Always check with your school first to familiarize yourself with their policies before you make a purchase.

International Workers

Depending on your situation, international workers who have entered Canada on a valid work permit may be eligible for publicly-funded Canadian health insurance administered by the provincial government. Typically, you need to be a resident of your province for more than six months, although the exact requirements vary by province.

Do your research before you enter the country, and make sure to purchase adequate travel insurance and health insurance that will cover you during the time before you are eligible for provincial healthcare coverage. We recommend getting started with a free quote from Cigna to explore their Canadian travel and health insurance options.

Permanent Residents

Even if you’re entering Canada as a legal permanent resident , there may be some time when you are unable to access provincial health care due to a mandatory waiting period, typically three months in duration. Some provinces require this, and some do not. You can read more about Canadian provincial healthcare for newcomers here .

During your first weeks and months in Canada, it’s smart to ensure you have private health insurance that can cover you while you wait for provincial coverage. You can start exploring your insurance options by getting a free quote from Cigna .

Explore your options for travel insurance for Canada as an American traveller

Whether you intend to stay in Canada for two days or 10 years, travel insurance and international health insurance are valuable assets that can help you protect yourself and your family from unexpected issues and expenses.

Moving2Canada’s trusted partner Cigna offers free quotes for many different types of Canadian travel insurance that can help you protect your health and keep your trip on track. Fill out the form here for a fast, free quote in minutes.

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Home / Travel Insurance / Learning Center /

• Can visitors to Canada get health insurance?

Visitors to Canada can get travel medical insurance if they need emergency healthcare while they’re in Canada. This isn’t the same as health insurance, which usually only covers you in your home country. Emergency travel medical can cover things like doctor’s visits and other urgent health care needs for people visiting Canada.

What does travel medical insurance cover for visitors to Canada?

• Does travel health insurance cover families visiting Canada?
• How much does Canadian medical insurance for visitors cost?

How much health insurance coverage can visitors to Canada get?

Why should you buy travel health insurance when visiting canada, how to get the best medical insurance for visitors to canada.

• FAQs about travel medical insurance

When people think of Canada, they usually think of three things: maple syrup, hockey, and “free” healthcare. Visitors to Canada can enjoy two of these, but free government healthcare coverage is not one of them. Instead, travellers will need to explore other options, such as travel insurance , that will cover their healthcare needs while in Canada.

In this article, we’ll answer all of your questions about what kind of insurance visitors to Canada can get, and what they can be covered for.

Need insurance answers now?

Call 1-888-601-9980 to speak to our licensed advisors right away, or book some time with them below.

Can visitors to Canada get medical insurance?

If you come to visit Canada, you cannot use the Canadian government health insurance plan or buy Canadian health insurance plan coverage for yourself.

Instead, a travel insurance plan that covers medical costs is the best options for tourists, visitors , and non-residents to Canada. Travel medical insurance for visitors to Canada can help pay for emergency care if something happens while you’re here.

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is a type of insurance that helps to cover the cost of medical care if you become sick or injured while travelling. It can also protect you from financial loss if you have to cancel or interrupt your trip. Different types of travel insurance can cover unexpected costs related to:

Travel plans can cover single or multiple trips . Check your policy for details on exactly what you’re covered for. Or speak with our travel insurance specialists to make sure you have the travel protection you need.

Is there a special type of tourist insurance in Canada?

Most tourists in Canada stay for less than six months, so they can be covered under regular travel insurance for people on a visitor visa. The only exception is super visa insurance , which is for a special type of Canadian visitor. Super visas are only for the parents and/or grandparents of a Canadian citizen or permanent resident.

Most travel medical plans will cover:

• Emergency medical treatment for illness or injury
• Prescription medications
• Emergency dental services
• Essential medical equipment (crutches, wheelchairs, slings, braces, etc.)
• X-rays and other diagnostic laboratory procedures (bloodwork, ultrasounds, etc)
• Required ground, air or sea ambulance services
• Follow-up post-medical appointments
• Medical evacuation
• Ambulance travel to the nearest hospital

Keep in mind that what’s covered depends on your insurance company and what plan you sign up for. Some insurance policies cover certain things, while others may not.

Does visitors health insurance cover pre-existing medical conditions?

No, most visitor visa insurance plans won’t pay for a health problem that you already had before you got the insurance. This health problem is considered a “ pre-existing condition .”

Some common pre-existing conditions include:

• Heart disease
• High blood pressure
• Sleep apnea
• Anxiety and/or depression
• Bipolar disorder
• Other mental health conditions

However, if your medical condition is stable, then some insurance companies will cover related complications at an additional cost. The table below shows the criteria for a condition to be considered stable.

Does travel medical insurance cover families visiting Canada?

Yes, visitors health insurance can cover a family visiting Canada. If you need to cover more than one person at a time, you can get a family policy that will include everyone. But note that there are rules about who can be included in that policy.

Generally, anyone travelling with you will fall under one of two categories:

1 Dependents

• Your spouse
• Your minor children
• Anyone legally or financially dependent on you

Anyone who falls into one of these categories can be included in your travel insurance plan.

2 Non-dependents

Travel Insurance Tip

If you’re not sure about who can be included in your visitors health insurance plan coverage, check your policy wording or  speak with one of our travel insurance specialists  to find out.

How much does Canadian medical insurance for visitors cost? 

The price of Canadian medical insurance for visitors changes depending on things like how long your trip is, how much you’re covered for, if you have any health concerns , and more.

The chart below shows some sample costs for $100K of travel medical insurance coverage, covering covers a seven-day trip to Canada, with a $1,000 deductible.

*A single-trip, 7-day day travel medical insurance policy with $100,000 in coverage and a $1,000 deductible.

What is a travel insurance deductible?

Most travel insurance policies have something called a deductible . It’s the amount of cash you choose to pay out of pocket before your insurance coverage kicks in and covers the rest of the medical bill.

Deductible options also change how much you pay for your policy. The higher the deductible, the cheaper the policy.

Some deductibles start at zero, meaning you don’t have to pay anything upfront when you have a medical bill—the insurance covers the cost right away. But lower deductible options mean you pay more for your insurance premiums.

Deductibles can also be as high as thousands of dollars, meaning you pay those thousands before insurance helps with the rest. But higher deductible amounts also mean you pay less for your insurance policy.

Tourists and other visitors in Canada can get coverage amounts of $10,000 to $1 million in health insurance coverage for their trip. Most Canadian visitors choose $100K in coverage.

Insurance companies will cover up to a certain dollar amount in unexpected medical costs. How much they cover depends on what kind of medical procedure it is.

The chart below gives you an idea of how much is usually covered for some common healthcare.

A typical travel medical insurance policy for a visitor could cover:

Travel health insurance can help protect tourists against enormous fees if they need to see a doctor or get medical care during their trip to Canada.

Everyone wants to kick back and have a great time on vacation. But a sudden emergency can cost you thousands of dollars per day in medical expenses. Remember, visitors aren’t covered by Canada’s healthcare. And your home country’s health insurance won’t cover you in foreign countries either.

Visitors medical coverage can help pay some of those costs and give you peace of mind knowing you’re financially covered if anything happens.

The best way to get health insurance for your trip to Canada is to shop around and compare deals. And you can easily do that right here on PolicyAdvisor.com .

We work with dozens of Canada’s most trusted insurance companies to scan the market for you and find the best prices and coverage based on your needs. Compare your options for free online with our quoting tool. Or take advantage of a free phone consultation with one of our travel insurance specialists who can review coverage options and help you figure out what plan would work best for you and your family.

Which Canadian providers offer emergency medical insurance for visitors to Canada?

You can get visitors health insurance from top Canadian providers like:

• 21st Century
• Allianz Global Assistance
• Destination Canada
• GMS (Group Medical Services)

We work with all of these travel insurance providers and more to bring you the best visitors insurance options. Save time and find the lowest rates in minutes by comparing them on PolicyAdvisor.com .

⚠️ IMPORTANT ⚠️  

Remember, the best travel coverage needs to be secured before you arrive in Canada so that it can start in time. Don’t wait to protect your upcoming travel to Canada today!

There are tons of benefits to non-residents getting Canadian health insurance, whether they are tourists or long-term visitors on a super visa. Now that you know how it works, get started on securing your trip today.

Frequently asked questions

Can i buy canadian medical insurance for parents visiting canada .

Yes, you absolutely can buy medical insurance for parents visiting Canada . In fact, this is very common! Many Canadians started out as immigrants to the country, so they may have parents and other family come to visit them sometimes.

There are generally two options for insurance coverage for visiting parents:

1 Visitors insurance

2 Super visa insurance

To buy medical insurance for your visiting parents, or anyone else coming to visit you, you’ll need their:

Can I get a refund for Canadian visitors medical insurance?

Yes, you can get a refund for visitors insurance , but only in cases such as:

• Your trip was cancelled
• Your Canadian visitors visa was denied
• You got a Canadian government health insurance plan

You shouldn’t cancel your travel insurance if you’re still coming to Canada and do not have coverage. Travel insurance can save you from having to spend thousands out-of-pocket in an emergency. It’s well worth the low cost!

What are emergency transportation expenses?

In this article, we referred to emergency transportation expenses. This includes health care costs while you are either living or deceased.

• Ambulance services Ground or air ambulance service to the nearest hospital or medical facility.
• Repatriation Returning you to your country of residence when you are injured or ill so that you can recover in your home country.
• Return of the deceased Returning a deceased person’s remains to the country they lived in. Some policies will also cover the cost of cremation or burial at the place of death.

Even if the airline isn’t forthcoming in this situation, a comprehensive travel insurance plan will have your back!

• Visitors to Canada can get health insurance coverage through a travel medical insurance plan
• Travel medical insurance can cover doctor's visits, hospital stays, emergency transportation, and prescription medication
• Visitors health insurance can cover an individual or a family

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The information above is intended for informational purposes only and is based on PolicyAdvisor’s own views, which are subject to change without notice. This content is not intended and should not be construed to constitute financial or legal advice. PolicyAdvisor accepts no responsibility for the outcome of people choosing to act on the information contained on this website. PolicyAdvisor makes every effort to include updated, accurate information. The above content may not include all terms, conditions, limitations, exclusions, termination, and other provisions of the policies described, some of which may be material to the policy selection. Please refer to the actual policy documents for complete details. In case of any discrepancy, the language in the actual policy documents will prevail. All rights reserved.

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Travel medical insurance

Key takeaways.

• Your usual health insurance may not cover you while you’re travelling.
• Travel medical insurance can help cover medical emergencies while you’re away.
• Travel medical insurance can be purchased as part of your other health coverage.

What is travel medical insurance?

When you travel outside of province or outside of Canada, the  health insurance coverage  you rely on when you’re at home (whether government or individual) may not cover you for accident or illness – and if you are covered, the amount may be much smaller.

This means that if you get hurt or become ill while you’re travelling, you’ll be responsible for any medical bills you incur. This can become very costly, very quickly, and some hospitals may even require upfront payment before they’ll treat you.

That’s where travel medical insurance comes in.

Travel medical insurance is different than trip cancellation insurance, which can cover the cost of your flight or hotel if you have to cancel.

When do you need travel medical insurance?

Anytime you’re leaving your province – even if it’s just for a day trip – you should consider getting travel medical insurance. This is because the second you cross that provincial border, you may no longer have the same coverage as you did at home. This means you need it when:

• You’re travelling outside your home province or territory 
• You’re travelling to the USA 
• You’re travelling internationally 

What do government health plans cover?

Canada has  13 provincial and territorial health plans  that provide basic health coverage to residents. What’s covered by these when you travel will depend on both where you live and where you’re travelling.

Travelling within Canada

In accordance with the  Canada Health Act Opens a new website in a new window  provinces and territories must extend medically necessary hospital and physician coverage to eligible residents when they travel outside that province or territory.

While specific cases may vary, this generally means that you can present an eligible health card when you receive treatment at a hospital or doctor’s office, and costs will be billed directly to your provincial or territorial plan.

This is to prevent Canadians potentially not being able to access medical care due to upfront costs, although in some cases, you may need to pay upfront for services and then claim reimbursement from your home provincial or territorial plan when you return.

Some health services, known as “additional benefits”, are usually not covered outside your home province or territory. Examples include:

• Ground or air ambulance services
• Prescription drug costs
• Dental care

If you’re planning to travel to a different province or territory, check your applicable  Ministry of Health website Opens a new website in a new window  to confirm what is and isn’t covered, and make sure to always carry your health card with you. Even if you’re travelling within the country, you may find it still makes sense to have some additional coverage in place.

Travelling outside of Canada

It is strongly recommended that when travelling outside of Canada, residents  have travel insurance prior to leaving Opens a new website in a new window .

This is because your provincial or territorial health insurance may not cover your medical bills while you’re outside Canada, or only cover a small portion of the total.

The Government never pays for medical bills outside of Canada upfront, meaning you’d need to pay for services at the time of treatment and then claim reimbursement.

Depending on where you’re travelling to and the type of medical assistance you need, this could potentially amount to hundreds if not thousands of dollars.

Travel health insurance can help give you access to medical care in some countries where, if you’re unable to pay upfront, you may be denied treatment.

Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a  snowbird  or planning a special once-in-a-lifetime trip, buying travel insurance can help ensure that should something unexpected happen, you and your loved ones are able to receive the necessary medical treatment.

If you’re part of a Canada Life workplace benefit plan,  sign into your account  or speak to a health and wealth consultant to add travel medical insurance to your existing coverage. If you have personal health and dental coverage such as  Freedom to Choose , learn more about  adding travel insurance to your plan .

What does travel medical insurance cover?

It can vary between plans, but these are usually covered:

• Emergency care, like an injury or a sudden illness like heart attack or appendicitis
• Medical evacuation, either home to Canada or the nearest place with the right level of medical care
• Repatriation if you pass away
• Medical costs up to a maximum amount, which can vary depending on your plan 
• Pre-existing conditions, although pre-travel stability periods may apply

What doesn’t travel medical insurance cover?

Again, it varies but these are pretty standard exclusions:

• Injuries or death caused by high-risk activities, like skydiving or scuba diving
• Routine or elective care
• COVID-19, although some plans – like Canada Life’s Freedom to Choose™ health and dental insurance – may provide coverage 
• Certain destinations, particularly if the government has issued a travel advisory  

How do you get travel medical insurance?

There are a few different ways to get travel insurance:

• Your workplace or group benefits plan
• Your individual health and dental insurance plan, where it may be offered as additional coverage (For example,  Freedom to Choose  health and dental insurance allows you to purchase it as an add-on to your health insurance, often for just a few extra dollars a month)
• A credit card that includes travel insurance coverage
• A company offering single trip travel policies

What kinds of travel insurance can you get?

Annual or multi-trip medical insurance.

This can cover any trips you take over an entire year, and is a great choice for a frequent traveller

Single trip travel medical insurance

This is a plan that you buy for a specific time period, which means you’re only covered for the days on your policy

What's next?

• When you’re planning your next trip, make sure you’re covered for any health emergencies that aren’t covered by your usual insurance.
• If you have or are considering an individual health insurance plan, think about adding travel medical insurance as optional extra coverage.

Want to learn more about Freedom to Choose™ health and dental insurance?

Enter your email if you would like to receive updates about Freedom to Choose health and dental insurance. You can withdraw your consent at any time. Click to see our privacy guidelines Opens in a new window , which includes our mailing address.

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• Trip Cancellation & Interruption 4 of 5
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• Multi-Trip Emergency Medical 1 of 2
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Emergency Medical Plan for Visitors to Canada

Plan overview.

Emergency Medical benefits up to amount purchased per insured person*.

• Hospital and physician services
• Paramedical services
• Ambulance transportation
• Emergency dental treatment
• Preparation and return of mortal remains
• Emergency air transportation home
• Additional meals and hotel
• Visit to bedside if travelling alone
• Return of children
• Return your travel companion

Travel Accident insurance is included with the purchase of Emergency Medical Insurance and covers the following benefits:*

• If an accidental bodily injury causes the insured to die, to become completely and permanently blind in both eyes or to have two limbs fully severed above the wrist or ankle joints, within 365 days of the accident, Manulife will pay $50,000.
• If an accidental bodily injury causes the insured to become completely and permanently blind in one eye or have one limb fully severed above a wrist or ankle joint, within 365 days of the accident, Manulife will pay $25,000.
• If the insured has more than one accidental bodily injury during the trip, Manulife will pay the applicable insured sum only for the one accident that entitles the insured to the largest benefit amount.

*Exclusions, conditions, and limitations apply. See the policy for details.

Coverage Amounts at a Glance

*Meets the insurance requirements needed to apply for or hold a Parent and Grandparent Super Visa.

$150,000 coverage is available up to age 69.

Eligibility

The following persons may apply for this insurance:

• Visitors to Canada;
• Canadians who are not eligible for benefits under a government health insurance plan issued by a Canadian province or territory;
• Persons who are in Canada on a work visa; or
• New immigrants who are awaiting coverage by government health insurance from a Canadian province or territory.

Applicants aged 85 or younger can choose coverage levels of: $15,000, $25,000, $50,000 or $100,000

Applicants aged 69 or younger can choose $150,000 coverage.

The applicant is not eligible for coverage for any plan if the applicant:

• is travelling against the advice of a physician;
• has been diagnosed with a terminal illness with less than 2 years to live;
• has a kidney condition requiring dialysis;
• has used home oxygen during the 12 months prior to the date of application;
• has been diagnosed with Alzheimer’s disease, or any other form of dementia;
• on the effective date of coverage, is under 30 days or over 85 years of age (over 69 years of age for $150,000);
• resides in a nursing home, home for the aged, other long term care facility or rehabilitation centre; and/or
• requires assistance with eating, bathing, using the toilet, changing positions (including getting in and out of a bed or chair) and dressing.

To be eligible for Plan A, all applicants must meet the above eligibility requirements.

To be eligible for Plan B, in addition to meeting the above eligibility requirements, applicants must truthfully answer ‘No’ to all questions on the Medical Questionnaire if 40 years of age or older.

Coverage for side trips

This insurance provides coverage while travelling outside Canada as long as the side trip originates or terminates in Canada and does not exceed the lesser of 30 days per policy or 49% of the total number of coverage days.

This insurance allows the policyholder to return home without terminating their coverage, if the policyholder has requested and received prior approval from the Assistance Centre. Coverage will be suspended but will not be terminated while the policyholder is at home. The suspension of coverage will end and coverage will be reinstated when the policyholder arrives back in Canada. There will be no refund of premium for any of the days during any return home.

Application & Medical Questionnaire

To apply for coverage, the application for insurance should be completed no earlier than 365 days* prior to the effective date of insurance.

• The policy may only be issued in Canada and coverage must not exceed 365 days.
• Application for insurance may be made before or after arrival in Canada. The applicant will be subject to a waiting period if insurance is purchased after arrival in Canada.
• All applicants must meet the Eligibility Requirements. Plan B applicants who are 40 years of age or older must complete the Medical Questionnaire to determine eligibility for Plan B.
• A waiting period will apply, except in the case of injury, if insurance is purchased after arrival in Canada or after the expiry date of an existing Visitors to Canada policy issued by us.
• On the effective date of insurance, the applicant must be in Canada and meet the eligibility requirements.
• The applicant may not be covered under more than one plan during a trip.
• A $75 (CDN) deductible will apply to each Emergency Medical claim made under this policy, unless the applicant chose No Deductible, $500 Deductible or $1,000, $2,500 or $5,000 Deductible option per claim and paid the applicable premium.

*Exception: Unless the applicant is applying for a visa and requires proof of insurance more than 365 days prior to the effective date of insurance.

Pre-Existing Medical Condition Exclusions

The Pre-existing Condition Exclusion that applies depends on the plan purchased.

- we will not pay any expenses relating to:

• any medical condition, diagnosed or undiagnosed, which existed or for which you sought or received medical advice, consultation, investigation, or for which treatment was required or recommended by a physician, within 180 days before the effective date of insurance;
• any heart condition if, in the 180 days before the effective date, the applicant required any form of nitroglycerine for the relief of angina pain; and/or
• any lung condition if, in the 180 days before the effective date, the applicant required treatment with oxygen or prednisone for a lung condition.

– we will not pay any expenses relating to:

• a pre-existing condition that is not stable in the 180 days before the effective date of insurance;

"Pre-existing condition" is an injury, sickness or symptom that existed before the effective date of insurance.

means a medical condition for which:

• there has not been any new symptom(s);
• existing symptom(s) have not become more frequent or severe;
• a physician has not determined that the medical condition has become worse;
• no test findings have shown that the medical condition may be getting worse;
• a physician has not provided, prescribed, or recommended any new medication, or any change in medication*;
• a physician has not provided, prescribed or recommended investigative testing, any new treatment or any change in treatment;
• there has been no admission to a hospital or referral to a specialty clinic or specialist;
• a physician has not advised referral to a specialist or further testing, and there has been no testing for which the results have not yet been received.

* Exceptions: the routine adjustment of Coumadin, warfarin, insulin to control diabetes (as long as the medication is not newly prescribed or stopped) and a change from a brand-name medication to a generic brand medication (provided that the dosage is not modified).

Coverage Start & End Dates

Coverage starts on the later of:.

• the effective date of insurance as shown in the confirmation; or
• the time and date the applicant arrives in Canada from home.

Coverage ends on the earliest of the following:

• each time the applicant leaves Canada to return home;
• when the policy expires, as shown in the confirmation;
• when the applicant becomes a resident of a nursing home, home for the aged or other long term care facility during their trip;
• no more than 365 days after the effective date of insurance; or
• the first day the applicant becomes insured under a government health insurance plan.

Waiting period:

A waiting period of 48 hours applies if this insurance is purchased after arrival in Canada or after the expiry date of an existing Manulife Visitor to Canada policy, as long as there is no increase in the coverage amount or change in the plan selected.  A claim related to an illness arising during or before a waiting period is not covered.

The waiting period follows and includes the effective date of insurance.

Refunds & Extensions

Applicants may request a refund of premium (minimum $25.00) for the unused days

• If the applicant cancels the policy at any time before the effective date of insurance; or
• If the applicant obtains government health insurance plan coverage from a Canadian province or territory, or returns home before the scheduled date of return (as per the confirmation) and there has been no claim reported or initiated or assistance services have not been provided;
• If you hold a Parent and Grandparent Super Visa (PG-1 VISA) and are leaving Canada permanently, you may request a partial refund if you provide proof of your departure from Canada and have not reported or initiated a claim or been provided with any assistance service.

All travellers insured under the same policy must return together or be covered under a government health insurance plan from a Canadian province or territory for a refund to be possible.

No refunds are available for Trip Interruption Insurance after the effective date.

Extensions:

To extend the coverage

, the policyholder must make the request before the expiry date or the scheduled date of return (as per the confirmation). If the policyholder has not had a change in their health status and has not had any health-related event since the effective date of insurance that has resulted or may result in a claim, the extension may be issued upon request. Otherwise, the extension is subject to the approval of the Assistance Centre.

Automatic extension of coverage

is provided beyond the date the applicant was scheduled to return home as per the confirmation if:

• the common carrier is delayed. In this case, we will extend the coverage for up to 72 hours;
• the policyholder or their travel companion is hospitalized on their expiry date. In this case, we will extend the coverage during the hospitalization up to a maximum of 365 days or until, in our opinion, you are stable for discharge from the hospital or for evacuation home , whichever is earlier, and for up to 5 days after discharge from the hospital;
• the policyholder or their travel companion has a medical condition that does not require hospitalization but prevents travel. In this case, we will extend the coverage for up to 5 days.
• Premium rates are in $CDN per person.
• Emergency Medical Family Coverage* rates are 2x the premium rate of the oldest traveller under age 60.
• Trip Interruption and Travel Accident Family coverage rates are 3x the premium rate of the oldest traveller under age 60.
• Rates are subject to change without notice
• The plan purchased;
• The age at the effective date of insurance, and
• The trip length.
• The date of departure; and
• The date of return.
• Coverage will not take effect if the applicant's cheque or credit card payment is not honoured when presented for payment.

* Family coverage is available under Plan A if you purchased and paid the premium for Family Coverage. The parent(s) must be under the age of 60 and their dependent son or daughter, travelling with them must be: -dependent on the parent(s) for support; - named on the confirmation; - at least 30 days of age but under 21 years of age; or, - any age if mentally or physically disabled.

Ways to Save

The published rates for the Emergency Medical Plans include a $75 CDN deductible. The following deductible options are available for Emergency Medical Plans only:

* $CDN per insured per emergency medical claim

Important Information

• Contact the Assistance Centre before receiving treatment while on a trip. Manulife Financial Travel Insurance has a 20% coinsurance provision that may limit the benefits if a call is not received. In addition, specific covered eligible benefits may be limited or not covered if the Assistance Centre has not been contacted.
• Make sure the application and confirmation are signed and dated prior to the effective date. If coverage is not arranged prior to the effective date, coverage begins on the day following Manulife's or the advisor/agent’s receipt of the executed confirmation form and payment. In the event we are unable to process payment, coverage will not be in effect.
• Read the policy with particular attention to "pre-existing condition" and other exclusions that apply to the coverage.
• The Wallet Card and Manulife FinancialTravel Insurance policy should be kept with you at all times when traveling. The Wallet Card includes telephone numbers in case of an emergency or if an extension is required. The Wallet Card is found in the policy

For Members

Find a plan, advice center, common questions, travel insurance for bc families and individuals.

Affordable travel starts with flexible protection from unexpected travel costs like medical emergencies, trip cancellation fees, baggage issues and more.

Buy Now Questions? Make a Claim

Why British Columbians choose our Travel Insurance

Free for kids.

Only Pacific Blue Cross covers kids of all families for free when you buy Emergency Medical coverage.

Pre-Existing Coverage

Only Pacific Blue Cross offers $10 Million in travel insurance with just 7 days stability of your pre-existing conditions.

COVID-19 Coverage

Pacific Blue Cross Emergency Medical Insurance includes coverage for COVID-19 when you’re fully vaccinated.

You Save as a Member

Members always save an extra 10% and our family plans cover your children for free.

Always on Call

Our emergency assistance team doesn't take a day off.  They're available 24/7 should an emergency occur while you are travelling.

Recognized around the world

One of the most recognized symbols of health care in the world.  So you’ll be covered from Toronto to Thailand.

First Payer

If your employer provides you with benefits from Pacific Blue Cross, our plans protect your lifetime maximum.

A Proud Partner

We are the travel insurance partner of Make-A-Wish, helping make dream trips come true.

Choose one of our Travel Insurance plans below to get started

Emergency Medical

Comprehensive, flexible emergency medical care coverage for British Columbians while travelling outside of BC.

Why do I need this?

Trip Protection

Peace of mind coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, airline delays and baggage loss, damage or delay.

Visitors to Canada

Emergency health coverage for tourists, workers, new immigrants and students visiting BC.

— Pacific Blue Cross — Travel Health Check

Select the destination(s) you’ll be travelling to below

Frequently Asked Questions about Travel Advisories and Vaccinations

Travel Insurance and COVID-19

Travelling is a little different right now, so we’ve put together some helpful information to help you enjoy healthy travels.

Why Do I Need Travel Insurance

Know before you go — testing, entry, borders, covid-19 coverage how it works, more questions our travel faq, a few frequently asked questions about travel insurance.

You should be aware that your provincial coverage may not pay for all health care costs you may incur while outside of the province, and the difference can be substantial. For example, B.C. pays $75 (CAD) a day for emergency in-patient hospital care, while the average cost in the U.S. often exceeds $1000 (US) a day, and can be as high as $10,000 (US) a day in intensive care. For this reason, you are strongly advised to purchase additional health insurance from a private insurer before you leave the province, whether you are going to another part of Canada or outside the country. You are advised to purchase additional coverage even if you plan to be away for only a day.

When you purchase Travel Medical insurance for one or two parents, each dependent child 21 years of age or younger who is subsequently added to your travel policy will receive free emergency medical coverage for up to $10,000,000.

An Annual plan provides the best value if you're taking two or more trips per year.

For example, at the 0-34 age group: Two 15-day Single trip plans: $86 One 15-day Annual plan: $52 Total savings with an Annual plan: $34

Plus, with an Annual plan, all of your trips under 15 days are covered within the year-- for even more savings.

Yes - Regardless of any existing conditions, we always advise members to still purchase coverage, as it will protect against all other accidents not related to that condition.

Travel insurance policies are designed to provide protection against unexpected emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption.

Depending on your age and the condition pre-existing medical conditions are covered if they are stable for a certain time period (as specified in your policy) before your policy's effective date.

It is important you review and understand any clauses or definitions in your chosen policy. Each travel insurance policy will uniquely define a pre-existing condition and there are many variations in wording. For example, policies may not cover conditions arising prior to the trip departure date:

• that are unstable
• where symptoms of an illness appeared
• that have been diagnosed or treated
• where medications have been changed

Travel policies will also specify a time frame, based on your age that relates to the evaluation of your pre-existing conditions. This time frame could be as short as 3 months but could be 1 year, 5 years or longer.

Some policies may provide coverage for your pre-existing conditions if you complete a more detailed medical questionnaire.

When purchasing our travel policy, we will evaluate pre-existing conditions for people 60 years and younger based on their health within the previous 3 months prior to the day their coverage begins. For people age 61 and over, we evaluate based on their health within 6 months prior.

It depends on the illness, its seriousness and its stability. Some illnesses are easily covered. Others require a three or six month stability period, depending on your age. Blue Cross offers the possibility of covering your illness with a medical questionnaire (available for persons aged 61 and over) filled out by your treating physician; Blue Cross’ medical team will then evaluate your condition. If authorized, you can travel worry-free: your chronic illness will also be covered.

When travelling internationally, you may be at risk for a number of diseases which are common in other parts of the world. You can learn more about Travel Vaccines on our Vaccination page .

Looking for other types of coverage?

Personal health insurance.

Our Personal Health Insurance plans providers coverage for people who are not covered by an employer group plan

Critical Illness Insurance

Our Critical Illness Insurance can help manage your ongoing financial obligations in the unfortunate scenario of recovering from a serious disease

Life Insurance

Ensure the financial health of your loved ones from one of the most respected Life Insurance brands in Canada

Plan Details

All of our plans include:

• Up to $10 million of emergency medical care
• 24/7 access to a team of professionals to contact you with local resources
• Direct Pay — We will pay any providers directly.
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions — As long as your pre-existing condition meets a minimum stability period, you can receive full protection.

Plan Highlights

• Emergency medical expenses
• Ambulance and taxi fees
• Repatriation costs
• Transportation to visit the covered person
• Medical Follow-up in Canada
• Subsistence allowance

Add-on Options

You can add the following individual benefits to your plan or choose a package and save:

• Trip Cancellation or Interruption
• Emergency Return
• Air-Flight Accicent
• Baggage loss, delay or damage
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment

Call us if an emergency strikes

If you do experience an unexpected emergency while travelling, we are here to help.

During your trip, you can call our   Medi-Assist   service to determine your level of coverage and receive help:

• In Canada or the U.S., call toll-free:   1-888-699-9333
• Outside of Canada or the U.S. or where toll-free is unavailable, please call collect to   1-604-419-4487   and we will pay for the call.

Claims Process

Out-of-Province Emergency Medical Claims  — Four simple steps

Trip Cancellation / Baggage Claim Form — Form for claiming Trip Cancellations or Lost Baggage [pdf]

Visitors to Canada Travel Plan Claim Form — Form for claiming against a Visitors to Canada Travel Plan contract [pdf]

Pacific Blue Cross Travel Medical Insurance provides $10,000,000 in coverage for costs related to emergency medical care resulting from an accident or sudden illness while travelling outside British Columbia. An Annual plan provides the best value for snowbirds, frequent travellers and cross-border hoppers who make multiple trips outside BC each year. Plan coverage includes:

In addition to paying for you to return to your province or residence to receive immediate medical attention*, we will arrange to have your vehicle returned, your pet returned and your baggage returned. Should an insured person pass away, we cover the cost of repatriating the deceased.

*Requires the authorization of the attending physician and CanAssistance.

Trip Protection Options

You can add the following individual benefits to your plan, buy them separately, or choose a package and save:

Pacific Blue Cross Visitors to Canada Insurance provides coverage for costs related to emergency medical care resulting from an accident or sudden illness while visiting British Columbia. Plan coverage includes:

Hospitalization, Medical and Paramedical Expenses

Transportation expenses.

The following services must be approved and planned by Medi-Assist.

We’ve got you covered, even when travel advisories change

Pacific Blue Cross Travel Medical plans contain $10M in COVID-19 coverage for fully vaccinated travellers, no matter the travel advisory. So rest assured, your plan will continue to provide the protection you need in emergency medical situations, even if and when Canadian government advisories change. If you aren’t fully vaccinated, you can learn more about how changing travel advisories may impact your coverage in our Frequently Asked Questions .

Speak to someone to learn more about one of our TRAVEL insurance products

Contact us about your existing Pacific Blue Cross coverage or products

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Do I Need Travel Insurance When Travelling Within Canada?

Published: Sep 22, 2023, 10:13am

Table of Contents

How does health insurance work in canada, what is not covered by my ghip, what is not covered when travelling within canada, what travel insurance do i need for travelling within canada, where can i get travel insurance for travelling within canada, how much does travel insurance for travelling within canada cost, the bottom line.

Maybe you’ve heard the horror stories of people who have travelled to far-flung destinations, gotten sick or injured and been saddled with hundreds of thousands of dollars in medical bills. As a savvy traveller, you know it’s essential to have comprehensive travel insurance when going abroad, but what about a trip within Canada?

Whether you’re planning a month-long expedition across the country, a ski trip in Quebec or a leisurely tour of the east coast, if you think that your provincial health insurance will cover all your medical expenses while you’re in another province, think again.

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The Travel Industry Council of Ontario ( TICO ) recommends that Canadians should always protect themselves by purchasing medical insurance even when travelling within Canada. That’s because not all medical expenses are covered by your provincial or territorial government health insurance plan once you leave your home province or territory. Here’s what you need to know.

Canada has a universal health care system that provides public health insurance to any Canadian citizen or permanent resident. This is known as the Government Health Insurance Plan, or GHIP. Each province and territory has its own health plan; for example, in Ontario it’s called the Ontario Health Insurance Plan, or OHIP, and in B.C. it’s called the Medical Services Plan, or MSP.

In general, with public health insurance, you won’t have to pay for most health care services, including family doctor’s visits, lab tests, diagnostics including X-rays, and emergency medical and hospital services.

There are differences between provincial and territorial plans, so it’s important to know what your plan covers. For example, Manitoba Health covers up to seven chiropractor visits per year, while Ontario does not offer chiropractic coverage.

Here is list of provincial and territorial public health care plans:

• British Columbia Medical Services Plan (MSP)
• Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)
• Saskatchewan Health Services
• Manitoba Health
• Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)
• Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ)
• New Brunswick Medicare
• Nova Scotia Medical Service Insurance (MSI)
• Newfoundland and Labrador Medical Care Plan (MCP)
• Northwest Territories NWT Health Care Plan
• Yukon Health Care Insurance Plan (YHCIP)
• Nunavut Health Care Plan

While Canada’s public health insurance plan is comprehensive, it doesn’t cover everything. While the particulars differ between provinces, the following are examples of services generally not covered by public health insurance:

• Cosmetic treatments and surgery
• Certain prescription drugs and vaccines
• Over-the-counter drugs
• Medical appliances
• Private nursing
• Additional charges for a private hospital room
• Services provided by paramedical health providers, such as chiropodists, physiotherapists, psychologists, dieticians, etc., outside of a hospital
• Some medical supplies, such as syringes
• Routine dental care, extractions and procedures

However, your province may offer publicly-funded drug plans for students, youth and/or seniors. Your employer may offer employment-related health insurance or you can purchase your own private health insurance plan to cover any coverage gaps.

Emergency medical insurance is a must-have for any out-of-province travel, even if you’re still in Canada.

In general, if you are travelling outside of your home province or territory and you don’t have supplemental travel insurance and you are faced with with a medical emergency, the following costs may not be covered:

• Treatment provided by a health-care practitioner, such as a physician assistant, nurse practitioner, chiropractor or physical therapist
• Prescription drugs
• Medical supplies
• Ambulance services, by ground or air
• Dental emergencies

Fees can range from several hundred to several thousand dollars.

Say you’re visiting Toronto from Winnipeg and you take a tumble down a flight of concrete steps. You’re taken by ambulance to the nearest local hospital and it’s discovered you fractured your femur. The ambulance ride alone will cost you. According to the Ontario Ministry of Health , visitors to Ontario who require ambulance services will have their costs fully covered only if:

• You are a visitor to Ontario from another province, and
• You are insured under your province’s health care plan, and
• A physician deems your ambulance service medically necessary, and
• You are transported between and Ontario hospital and a hospital in another province, or between two Ontario hospitals, and
• Your trip is for diagnostic or therapeutic services, and
• You are returned to the hospital of origin within 24 hours.

In all other cases you will have to pay a land ambulance service co-payment charge of $240. And if you need to be transported by air ambulance, you’ll be billed the actual cost. According to figures of Canadian hospital rates from August 2019 provided by Vancouver-based David Cummings Insurance Services, an air ambulance by helicopter in B.C. costs $2,746 per hour.

Most Canadian provinces and territories have reciprocal agreements with each other, except for Quebec, which means that if you are visiting Ontario from Nova Scotia and you need to visit the emergency department, the Ontario physician will bill their own provincial health care plan for insured services. The only exception is Quebec, where you’ll need to pay the health provider up front.

If you are required to pay out of pocket, you can typically submit a medical expense claim to your own GHIP when you return home. Keep in mind there may be a variation in billing rates between provinces and you could be on the hook for any difference.

Whenever you leave your home province, it’s important to get comprehensive emergency medical insurance in case of an unexpected illness or injury. In general, travel medical insurance pays for unexpected medical expenses during your trip, including:

• Ambulance services (ground and air)
• Physicians’ bills
• Hospital and operating room charges
• Diagnostics and lab tests
• Drugs and medication
• Emergency dental care
• Repatriation to your home province or territory
• Cost to bring a companion to your bedside if you’re hospitalized
• Childcare costs if you’re hospitalized
• Vehicle return if a hospitalization prevents you from returning your rental car

You can purchase travel insurance for travelling within Canada at the same place you’d buy travel insurance for any other trip. You can purchase travel insurance online, through a broker or a travel agent.

Some insurance companies, such as Scotia Travel Insurance , offer cheaper rates for travel within Canada. Others offer a bespoke Canada package. For example, RBC Insurance offers a comprehensive Travel Within Canada Package that offers emergency medical and trip protection for travel within Canada, while TuGo offers an Emergency Medical Within Canada package with $10 million in coverage.

Your travel credit card may also provide sufficient emergency medical coverage for trips within Canada. Before you leave home, check the fine print to ensure you’re properly protected.

The cost of travel medical insurance depends on several factors, such as your age, the duration of your trip, your destination and your health.

Using a sample quote of a 45-year-old healthy woman travelling from Toronto to Vancouver for eight days, here are some examples of the cost of emergency medical travel insurance:

If you’re wondering whether it’s worth spending that extra cash on travel insurance for a trip within Canada, consider it a small investment for extra peace of mind. Not having sufficient emergency medical coverage can ruin your vacation—and your bank balance.

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Fiona Campbell is a Staff Writer for Forbes Advisor Canada. She started her career on Bay Street, but followed her love for research, writing and a good story into journalism. She is the former editor of Bankrate Canada, and has over 20 years of experience writing for various publications, including the Globe and Mail, Financial Post Business, Advisor’s Edge, Mydoh.ca and more.

Travel Medical Insurance

Emergency medical treatment can cost thousands.

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Essential coverage for canadians, classic medical plan.

Single Trip: Ages 0-64 Multi-Trip: Ages 0-64

For travellers who need emergency medical coverage for trips outside their home province or territory.

• Unlimited emergency medical Disclaimer 1
• Direct payment of emergency medical bills Disclaimer 3
• 24-hour worldwide emergency medical assistance
• No deductible payment required

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• No health questions required
• Stable Opens in new window pre-existing medical conditions are covered Disclaimer 2
• Single trip and multi-trip annual plan options Opens in new window
• 9-, 16-, 30- and 60-day trip duration options available for multi-trip annual plans (call for 30- and 60-day options)
• Family plan pricing available

Policy Documents:

For complete coverage details, limitations and exclusions, see:

• Classic Medical (Single Trip) Opens PDF in new window
• Classic Medical (Multi-Trip Annual) Opens PDF in new window

TravelCare ® Medical Plan

Single Trip: Ages 65+ Multi-Trip: Ages 65+

For travellers age 65 and up who need emergency medical coverage for trips outside their home province or territory.

• A few health questions are required
• Stable Opens in new window pre-existing conditions may be covered depending on the TravelCare Category Opens in new window for which you qualify
• TravelCare Medical (Single Trip) Opens PDF in new window
• TravelCare Medical (Multi-Trip Annual) Opens PDF in new window

4-Day Getaway Multi-Trip Annual Medical Plan

For travellers who want the ability to take unlimited quick trips outside their home province or territory in the next year for one low price.

• No medical questions and no health exam
• Stable Opens in new window pre-existing conditions are covered
• Family plan pricing available (to age 59)
• 4-Day Getaway Multi-Trip Annual Medical Plan Opens PDF in new window

Make sure you have the right travel insurance—get an online quote or talk to a licensed insurance advisor.

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What is Canada's best travel health insurance (2024)?

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Our articles are written by experts in their fields (finance, trading, insurance etc.) whose signatures you will see at the beginning and at the end of each article. They are also systematically reviewed and corrected before each publication, and updated regularly.

After saving for the trip you've long dreamed of, picture yourself strolling through the enchanting streets of a foreign city, when suddenly, a medical emergency pops up. It's a scenario none of us want to picture, but it can happen to any of us.

That's where travel health insurance comes in. Travel health insurance or travel medical insurance covers medical expenses, emergency medical evacuation, trip cancellations/interruptions , and related unforeseen events while traveling. But how do you get the perfect policy?

We take you through the best travel health insurance policies from top Canadian providers, and their pros and cons. You can use our comparator to compare multiple travel health insurances and get free personalized quotes so you can pick a policy that truly suits you best.

Best travel health insurance Canada plans

• CAA Travel Health Insurance: Unmatched 24/7 Virtual Emergency Medical Assistance
• RBC Travel Health Insurance: Direct Payment of Emergency Bills for Ultimate Convenience
• Blue Cross Travel Health Insurance: Limited Pre-Existing Condition Requirements
• Manulife Travel Health Insurance: Specialized Packages for Students, Traveling Canadians
• TD Travel Health Insurance: Up to $5 Million Medical Coverage for Added Security

Our top 5 travel health insurance plans for 2024

Caa travel health insurance canada: unmatched 24/7 virtual emergency medical assistance.

With over 115 years of experience, CAA has been a trusted source for Canadians' safety, mobility, and protection. They are known to advocate for road safety, offer diverse services like Roadside Assistance, and CAA travel health insurance , and serve over two million Members in South Central Ontario and Manitoba.

CAA provides both Single Trip and Multi-Trip Annual travel medical insurance with coverage of up to $5 million for medical repatriation, medical and dental emergencies and Covid-19-related medical care . There is also a single-trip medical Canada plan to protect you while traveling across the country.

Let’s look at some of the pros and cons of their policies overall.

Pros of CAA travel health insurance

• Multiple vacation packages ranging from a single trip to multi-trip travels
• CAA health insurance travel coverage up to $100,000
• 24/7 virtual emergency medical assistance is available
• Access to a vast network of healthcare providers

Cons of CAA travel health insurance

• Medical Questionnaire required for travelers above 60 years of age
• Coverage might include limitations with a maximum of 4-30 days per trip

RBC Travel Health Insurance Canada: Direct Payment of Emergency Bills for Ultimate Convenience

As the insurance arm of Royal Bank of Canada (RBC), one of the world's largest banks, RBC provides diverse solutions, serving individuals, businesses, and groups in areas like life, home, auto, RBC travel health insurance , and more.

RBC offers a range of travel medical insurance plans to suit various needs. The Classic Medical Plan provides unlimited emergency medical coverage, direct payment of medical bills, and 24/7 global assistance for travelers aged 0-64, with no health questions and coverage for stable pre-existing conditions .

The TravelCare Medical Plan caters to travelers aged 65 and up, with similar benefits but a few health questions required, and coverage for pre-existing conditions based on the TravelCare category. There is also the 4-Day Getaway Multi-Trip Annual Medical Plan for unlimited short trips for travelers aged 0-74 , with no medical questions and coverage for stable pre-existing conditions.

Here are its pros and cons.

• Essential coverage options for all ages, between 0-74
• Direct payment of emergency bills
• Family plan pricing is available
• Various plans including coverage for pre-existing conditions
• A maximum limit of $20,000 may be imposed without a valid government health coverage plan for the entire trip
• Direct billing does not guarantee that all medical expenses will be covered

Blue Cross Travel Health Insurance Canada: Limited Pre-Existing Condition Requirements

Blue Cross Travel Health Insurance offers comprehensive coverage and support for your well-being while traveling. With a focus on medical emergencies, hospital stays, and essential medical services , Blue Cross ensures you're protected no matter where your journey takes you.

This coverage includes protection for situations like injuries or illnesses during your trip. It also provides benefits for medical repatriation, paramedical services ($400), hospital allowance, emergency dental treatment ($2,000) , and pain relief due to dental issues, ensuring you have financial protection for unexpected health-related incidents while traveling.

• Free for kids medical insurance available
• Provides $10 Million travel insurance coverage with only a 7-day pre-existing condition stability requirement.
• Option to save an extra 10% as a member
• May not cover conditions when medications have been changed
• Potential limitations in coverage based on the destination of travel

Manulife Travel Health Insurance Canada: Specialized Packages for Students, Traveling Canadians

Manulife Travel Health Insurance serves as a prominent global financial services conglomerate, facilitating simplified decision-making and improved lifestyles for individuals. Operating under the name John Hancock in the U.S. and as Manulife internationally, the company offers a spectrum of financial guidance, insurance, wealth, and asset management solutions catering to individuals, groups, and institutions.

Manulife travel medical insurance also offers travel Emergency medical insurance for COVID-19 and related complications covered up to $5,000,000 if you are fully vaccinated for COVID-19 by a Health Canada-approved vaccine or for up to $1,000,000 for non-vaccinated policyholders.

• Packages available specific to students, traveling Canadians, and visitors to Canada
• Coverage of pre-existing conditions
• Up to $10 million in emergency medical benefits
• Medical questionnaire for those aged 60+
• If you are unable to call before seeking treatment you pay 20% of the expense out of pocket

You can now get a quote from Manulife Travel health insurance right here.

TD Travel Health Insurance Canada: Up to $5 Million Medical Coverage for Added Security

TD Insurance, a part of TD Bank Group, operates in the general insurance and life and health insurance sectors. They're a major player in home, auto, and critical illness insurance, ranking among the top groups in Canada. Their expertise extends to affinity marketing, collaborating with groups to offer insurance to members.

TD travel health Insurance is committed to transparently informing customers about compensation for licensed representatives through a disclosure document. Under its plans, it provides 24*7 medical assistance worldwide and up to $5,000,000 coverage in medical emergencies including physician's bills, diagnostic services, ambulance services, medical appliances, and even emergency return home.

Let's take a look at its pros and cons.

• Complimentary travel medical coverage for dependent child(ren) when two adults are covered under select family plans
• Medical coverage up $5 million on eligible costs
• Bedside companion benefit
• Fees (physiotherapy, chiropractic, etc.)
• Care for accidental dental injuries
• Fewer coverage options for single trips
• Limited to a maximum trip duration of up to 30 days

What is travel health insurance?

Travel health insurance or travel medical insurance covers medical expenses when you are outside your province or abroad. Your universal health insurance (provincial coverage like Ontario Health Insurance Plan or MSP in BC) may not fully cover accidents or illnesses that occur while traveling, leaving you responsible for potentially high medical bills.

Travel medical insurance is therefore designed to fill this gap and help you avoid unexpected financial burdens due to healthcare costs while traveling.

What is the difference between travel insurance and health insurance?

Travel insurance primarily covers trip-related issues like trip cancellation, luggage loss, and travel delays, safeguarding your travel investment and plans. In contrast, health insurance focuses on covering medical expenses within your home country (or province), ensuring access to healthcare services.

Travel health insurance, a subset of travel insurance, specifically addresses medical emergencies while traveling abroad, including unexpected illnesses, hospitalization, and medical evacuation. It is crucial for international travel to ensure you have financial support and access to medical care during your trip. To ensure comprehensive coverage, it's advisable to have both travel insurance and travel health insurance especially when planning overseas trips.

What does travel health insurance cover?

Travel Health Insurance typically covers:

• Emergency Medical Treatment : Coverage for unexpected illness or injury requiring medical attention while traveling.
• Hospitalization : Expenses related to hospital stays, surgeries, and medical procedures.
• Medical Evacuation : Costs of transporting you to a medical facility if local facilities are inadequate.
• Prescription Medications : Reimbursement for necessary medications prescribed during your trip.
• Emergency Dental Care : Coverage for urgent dental treatments due to unforeseen accidents.
• Repatriation : Arrangements and expenses for returning your remains to your home country in case of death.
• Trip Interruption : Reimbursement for non-refundable trip costs if you need to return home due to covered reasons.
• Lost Luggage : Coverage for lost, stolen, or damaged luggage and personal belongings.
• Trip Cancellation : Reimbursement for canceled trips due to covered reasons.
• Travel Assistance : Access to a 24/7 helpline for travel-related emergencies and information.

It's important to carefully review the specific policy details carefully, as coverage can vary between insurance providers and plans. If you'd like to explore the best travel health insurance options in Canada, you can do it right here using our comparator below. Compare multiple coverage and insurance companies and get tailor-made quotes in a few moments.

comparatorTitles.name

How much is travel health insurance ?

When considering the monthly premiums for your policy, several key factors come into play.

• Age : Younger travelers often pay lower premiums than older individuals.
• Duration of Travel : Longer trips may lead to higher insurance costs.
• Destination : Coverage costs can vary based on the country or region you're traveling to.
• Coverage Limits : Plans with higher coverage limits may come with higher premiums.
• Pre-existing Conditions : Coverage for pre-existing medical conditions can impact costs.

On average, premiums can range from a few dollars per day to more significant amounts for comprehensive coverage. However, it will also depend on your provider and your preferences.

So, how much does travel health insurance cost? The table below shows the premiums for different destinations to help you better understand the charges.

The costs mentioned are for more comprehensive packages while basic ones would be available for less than $100. Please note that these are just estimates, and actual travel insurance costs can vary widely based on the traveler's age, destination, travel duration, and pre-existing medical conditions . It is therefore essential to obtain a personalized quote to get an accurate cost estimate for your specific travel situation.

You don't have to look further to get quotes. Use our comparator tool below to compare coverages from the best providers and get free personalized travel health insurance quotes in no time.

Compare the best travel insurance plans on the market!

How does travel health insurance work?

When you purchase travel health insurance, you're essentially buying a policy that provides financial protection against unforeseen medical expenses while traveling abroad. In case of a covered medical emergency, you can contact your insurance provider's 24/7 emergency assistance line for guidance on seeking medical care.

It is advisable to have your policy details and emergency contact information easily accessible during your trip.

Do you need health insurance for other Canadian provinces?

When traveling to another province in Canada, your government health insurance plan like the Ontario Health Insurance Plan or MSP in BC might not cover all medical expenses. While the Canada Health Act mandates coverage for emergency care within different provinces, each province has its own time limits for coverage.

In most cases, medical bills are directly sent to your home province, except for Quebec, where visitors may need to pay upfront and seek reimbursement. This is why it might be a good idea to get your private plan before you travel.

Do you need travel health insurance USA plans from Canada?

Travel health insurance from Canada to the USA is strongly recommended for several crucial reasons . Firstly, Canada's healthcare coverage does not extend to the United States, where healthcare costs are notoriously high. Without insurance, you could be left with exorbitant medical bills if you fall ill or have an accident while visiting.

Additionally, in emergencies, you might require costly medical evacuation, which travel health insurance can cover, particularly given that natural catastrophes like floods, cyclones, and wildfires are becoming far too common.

How to get travel health insurance?

• Research and Compare: Begin by researching reputable providers and comparing their policies. You can do this right here using the HelloSafe comparator.
• Select Your Coverage: Determine the type of coverage you need based on factors like your destination, trip duration, and specific requirements. Choose a policy that aligns with your travel plans, whether it's a single trip, multi-trip, or long-term policy.
• Apply and Provide Information: Fill out the insurance application form, providing accurate information about yourself, your trip details, and any pre-existing medical conditions if required. Be thorough in your disclosure to ensure your coverage is valid.
• Purchase Your Policy: Once your application is approved, pay the premium for your chosen policy. You'll receive a confirmation and policy documents, which you should keep with you during your travels for reference in case of emergencies.

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Alexandre Desoutter has been working as editor-in-chief and head of press relations at HelloSafe since June 2020. A graduate of Sciences Po Grenoble, he worked as a journalist for several years in French media, and continues to collaborate as a as a contributor to several publications.

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Table of Contents

How single trip travel insurance works

How to choose between travel insurance companies, best plans for single trip travel insurance, other tips for travel insurance for a single trip, travel cards that come with complimentary travel insurance, single travel insurance for a trip recapped.

There are many types of travel insurance, including plans that’ll reimburse you for emergency medical expenses or unexpected travel delays. Along with coverage types, there are also different durations of travel insurance.

Single trip travel insurance will cover you during one vacation, while multitrip or annual travel insurance can last for multiple outings. Let’s take a look at single trip travel insurance, what kind of coverage you can expect and how to choose a plan that works for you.

Purchasing a travel insurance plan is fairly simple, as is making a claim. It generally goes like this:

You gather a few quotes from travel insurance companies.

You pick a plan that suits your needs and customize it to your liking.

You purchase your plan and include a date for it to start.

You go on your trip.

If something happens (such as a flight delay), keep the proof.

You make a claim with your travel insurance company.

The travel insurance company reimburses you. 

There are a few variations in how this can work (for instance, some travel insurance plans can pay a medical provider directly), but for the most part, this is how the process will go. This is the case whether you have one-trip travel insurance or multitrip travel insurance.

» Learn more: How to find the best travel insurance

There are several travel insurance companies out there, which can make choosing a plan difficult.

NerdWallet analysis found that some travel insurance providers rise above the rest in terms of breadth and depth of coverage, cost, customizability, and overall customer satisfaction. Jump to see our findings on the bets plans for single trip travel insurance.

However, before choosing a company and purchasing a plan, consider these questions:

How much am I willing to pay?

Do I want trip protection, emergency medical coverage or both?

Do I already have coverage somewhere?

How much customizability does my plan need?

Do I need coverage for preexisting conditions?

Will I be doing any sort of adventure activities?

Once you’ve answered these questions, do your due diligence and get quotes from multiple sources. Different providers will offer differing levels of coverage at varying prices, so it’s in your best interest to generate as many quotes as possible and read the fine print.

To make it simple, travel insurance aggregators such as Squaremouth (a NerdWallet partner) will provide you with multiple quotes at a time.

» Learn more: The best travel credit cards right now

We considered a wide variety of factors when it comes to selecting the best insurance for your trip. These factors include cost, customizability, coverage maximums, whether preexisting conditions are included and the type of coverage the policy offers.

World Nomads

World Nomads is great for active travelers because of its standard coverage of adventure activities. With just two plans from which to choose, it’s also simple to decide which one you’d like.

Covers 200-plus activities as standard. 

Simple plan options.

Emergency medical coverage included.

Only two choices for policies.

Riskier activities are covered only by the more expensive Explorer plan. 

Fixed-rate reimbursement for trip protection.

» Learn more: Read our full review of World Nomads

With eight plans on offer, Tin Leg has a policy for every type of traveler. Along with standard trip protections, Tin Leg also offers Cancel For Any Reason (CFAR) add-ons.

Plenty of plans from which to choose. 

Preexisting conditions included in most plans. 

Primary and secondary medical coverage options. 

Cheapest plan doesn’t cover preexisting medical conditions.

Rental car coverage add-on available only on Luxury plan. 

» Learn more: Is Cancel For Any Reason travel insurance worth it?

Seven Corners

Seven Corners is an excellent option for those who really want to customize their plans. Whether you’re looking for medical-only insurance or a more comprehensive policy, Seven Corners has options available.

Preexisting condition coverage available.

Medical-only plans on offer.

Covers missed tours and cruise connections. 

Inexpensive plan offers secondary medical insurance.

Event ticket registration coverage only for expensive plan. 

» Learn more: Is Seven Corners coverage worth the cost?

Our last company on the list is unique in that it covers those who use travel rewards, like purchasing flights or hotels with points and miles . This is fairly uncommon among travel insurance providers and can be really helpful when things go awry during award travel.

Plan options include accidental death and dismemberment (AD&D) travel life insurance. 

Covers up to $300 in frequent traveler reward costs. 

Worldwide travel assistance included on every policy.

Cancel For Any Reason insurance available only on most expensive plan. 

Just $35,000 in emergency medical for basic plan (low compared to similar policies at other companies).

» Learn more: Our full TravelSafe review

If you’re interested in getting travel insurance, do yourself a favor and consider these tips before making any purchases:

Consult your medical insurance provider to see whether it offers coverage out of country .

Consider an annual plan to save money if you make multiple trips per year.

Check your credit card for complimentary travel insurance . Many offer this benefit, and if its limits are satisfactory, you can book your travels with it and avoid buying a separate policy out-of-pocket altogether. More on this in the next section.

If you're looking to get coverage for a one-off trip, among your best options is to simply pay for your travel with a card that includes travel insurance as a benefit.

Most travel cards will include coverage for things like trip interruption , trip delays and lost luggage .

on Chase's website

on American Express' website

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 12 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per person and $20,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $40,000 per 12-month period.

• Baggage delay: Up to $100 per day for five days.

• Lost luggage: Up to $3,000 per passenger.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per ticket for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip delay: Up to $500 per trip for delays more than 6 hours.

• Trip cancellation: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

• Trip interruption: Up to $10,000 per trip. Maximum benefit of $20,000 per 12-month period.

Terms apply.

If you’re in the market for single trip travel insurance, there are plenty of options available to you. Before purchasing a plan, grab quotes from multiple companies because the types of coverage and costs are going to vary.

Beyond this, be sure to check whether your credit card offers complimentary travel insurance and reach out to your medical insurance provider to see what type of coverage it offers overseas.

American Express insurance disclosures

Insurance Benefit: Trip Delay Insurance

Up to $500 per Covered Trip that is delayed for more than 6 hours; and 2 claims per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Eligibility and Benefit level varies by Card. Terms, Conditions and Limitations Apply.

Please visit americanexpress.com/benefitsguide for more details.

Underwritten by New Hampshire Insurance Company, an AIG Company.

Insurance Benefit: Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance

The maximum benefit amount for Trip Cancellation and Interruption Insurance is $10,000 per Covered Trip and $20,000 per Eligible Card per 12 consecutive month period.

Insurance Benefit: Baggage Insurance Plan

Baggage Insurance Plan coverage can be in effect for Covered Persons for eligible lost, damaged, or stolen Baggage during their travel on a Common Carrier Vehicle (e.g. plane, train, ship, or bus) when the Entire Fare for a ticket for the trip (one-way or round-trip) is charged to an Eligible Card. Coverage can be provided for up to $2,000 for checked Baggage and up to a combined maximum of $3,000 for checked and carry-on Baggage, in excess of coverage provided by the Common Carrier. The coverage is also subject to a $3,000 aggregate limit per Covered Trip. For New York State residents, there is a $2,000 per bag/suitcase limit for each Covered Person with a $10,000 aggregate maximum for all Covered Persons per Covered Trip.

Underwritten by AMEX Assurance Company.

How to maximize your rewards

You want a travel credit card that prioritizes what’s important to you. Here are our picks for the best travel credit cards of 2024 , including those best for:

Flexibility, point transfers and a large bonus: Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card

No annual fee: Bank of America® Travel Rewards credit card

Flat-rate travel rewards: Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card

Bonus travel rewards and high-end perks: Chase Sapphire Reserve®

Luxury perks: The Platinum Card® from American Express

Business travelers: Ink Business Preferred® Credit Card

1x-10x Earn 5x total points on flights and 10x total points on hotels and car rentals when you purchase travel through Chase Travel℠ immediately after the first $300 is spent on travel purchases annually. Earn 3x points on other travel and dining & 1 point per $1 spent on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's $1,125 toward travel when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-5x 5x on travel purchased through Chase Travel℠, 3x on dining, select streaming services and online groceries, 2x on all other travel purchases, 1x on all other purchases.

75,000 Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $4,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. That's over $900 when you redeem through Chase Travel℠.

1x-2x Earn 2X points on Southwest® purchases. Earn 2X points on local transit and commuting, including rideshare. Earn 2X points on internet, cable, and phone services, and select streaming. Earn 1X points on all other purchases.

50,000 Earn 50,000 bonus points after spending $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.

Introduction to iTravelInsured Travel Insurance

• Types of Policies Offered
• How to Purchase and Manage Your Policy
• Customer Service and Claims Experience

Compare iTravelInsured Travel Insurance

• Why You Should Trust Us

iTravelInsured Travel Insurance Review 2024

Affiliate links for the products on this page are from partners that compensate us (see our advertiser disclosure with our list of partners for more details). However, our opinions are our own. See how we rate insurance products to write unbiased product reviews.

Planning a vacation can be an exciting endeavor. Regardless of where and why you're traveling, it's vital to ensure that you're protected if something goes wrong. And this is why travel insurance is important.

In this review of iTravelInsured Travel Insurance , a well-known name in the industry, we'll share the company's insurance offerings, look at premium costs, and let you know how to file a claim. We'll also share a couple of comparisons between iTravelInsured and some of the best travel insurance companies . 

• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Six different plans to choose from
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Cancel for Any Reason and Interruption for Any Reason coverage available
• Check mark icon A check mark. It indicates a confirmation of your intended interaction. Specialized plans for missionaries, seniors, and students in a cultural exchange or study abroad program
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Higher-end plans are on the expensive side
• con icon Two crossed lines that form an 'X'. Travel Essential plan has lower coverage compared to comparable plans through some competitors
• Six travel insurance plans to choose from
• Travel LX plan is the most popular option, and includes up to $2,500 in trip delay coverage and the option to add CFAR insurance
• Emergency medical coverage of up to $500,000 (primary or secondary depending on the plan)
• Coverage for baggage delays, loss, missed connections, and more

iTravelInsured is a collection of travel insurance policies provided by International Medical Group, more commonly known as IMG. One of the industry leaders in travel insurance, IMG provides policies for travel medical insurance , international health insurance, and comprehensive travel insurance. iTravelInsured offers trip protection and medical coverage across six plans.

With six plans to choose from, including a low cost plan and a plan for adventure sports travelers, customers are likely to find a plan that suits their needs. iTravelInsured's Travel Lite plan is particularly interesting, managing to keep its rates relatively low, even for older travelers.

We'll get into more details about iTravelInsured's customer reviews, but it's worth mentioning at the top that the claims process for iTravelInsured isn't great, with many customers reporting unresponsiveness, partial claims payouts, and months-long processing times. 

Types of Policies Offered by iTravelInsured

iTravelInsured offers six primary plans: Travel Lite, Travel SE, Travel LX, Travel LX Basic, Travel Sport, and Travel Essential. Each plan has different coverage limits and various types of protection.

Here's a look at what you'll get with each plan:

Determining which of these plans will best suit your needs will depend on your budget and which coverages matter most to you.

For example, the Travel LX plan offers the highest coverage limits but will also cost the most. In comparison, the Travel Lite plan is designed for budget-conscious travelers. Its coverage limits are lower than the other plans, but you'll also pay less for your policy.

Additional Coverage Options from iTravelInsured

iTravelInsured only offers two optional add-ons to its top-tier Travel LX plan. These include CFAR (cancel for any reason) and IFAR (interruption for any reason) coverage. And these add-ons must be purchased within 20 days of the initial trip deposit.

iTravelInsured Travel Insurance Cost

The premium you pay will depend on various factors, including the age of the travelers, destination, and total trip costs. The  average cost of travel insurance  is 4% to 8% of your travel costs.

After inputting some personal information, such as your age and state of residence, along with your trip details, like travel dates, destination, and trip costs, you'll get an instant quote for iTravelInsured plans available for your trip. And from there, it's easy to compare each option based on your coverage needs and budget.

Now let's look at a few examples to estimate iTravelInsured coverage costs.

As of 2024, a 23-year-old from Illinois taking a week-long, $3,000 budget trip to Italy would have the following travel insurance quotes:

• iTravelInsured Travel Lite: $ 87.77
• iTravelInsured Travel SE: $100.43
• iTravelInsured Travel LX: $183.06
• iTravelInsured Travel Sport: $194.01

Premiums for iTravelInsured plans are between 2.9% and 6.5% of the trip's cost, well within the average cost of travel insurance.

iTravelInsured provides the following quotes for a 30-year-old traveler from California heading to Japan for two weeks on a $4,000 trip:

• iTravelInsured Travel Lite: $117.74
• iTravelInsured Travel SE: $135.36
• iTravelInsured Travel LX: $235.53
• iTravelInsured Travel Sport: $246.91

Once again, premiums for iTravelInsured plans are between 2.9% and 6.2% of the trip's cost, within and below the expected range of travel insurance costs.

A Texas family consisting of two 40-year-old parents with a 10-year-old and 4-year-old on a two-week trip to Australia for $20,000:

• iTravelInsured Travel Lite: $687.18
• iTravelInsured Travel SE: $807.78
• iTravelInsured Travel LX: $1,270.92

Quotes for this trip cost between 3.4% and 6.4%, within and below the average cost of travel insurance. 

A 65-year-old couple looking to escape New Jersey for Mexico for two weeks with a trip cost of $6,000 would have the following quotes:

• iTravelInsured Travel Lite: $423.86
• iTravelInsured Travel SE: $449.74
• iTravelInsured Travel LX: $662.28

Quotes for this trip cost between 7.1% and 11%, which is generally higher than the average cost of travel insurance. Older people often pay more for insurance, and iTravelInsured is no exception. That said, its policies for older travelers aren't as high as some of its competitors.

How to Purchase and Manage Your iTravelInsured Policy

You can by iTravelInsured either through the IMG website . You'll need to be prepared to provide the following information about yourself and your trip:

• Travel dates
• Primary travel destination 
• Traveler(s) information (age, gender, citizenship, residence, state)

You'll be shown quotes for all of IMG's travel insurance plans that apply to you and your trip. 

How to File a Claim with iTravelInsured

You must submit a claim within 30 days of the loss.

Claims with iTravelInsured will be handled through its claims center . You can contact customer service or the claims center 24 hours a day at 866-347-6673 or 1-866-243-7524, respectively.

Claims forms and information can be mailed to:

IMG iTravelInsured Claims

PO Box 3231

Farmington Hills, Michigan 48333-3231

You can also email claims to [email protected].

iTravelInsured must pay your claim within 30 days of receiving your proof of loss. If you're not paid within 30 days, your claim starts accruing interest at 6% APY until the date of late payment.

iTravelInsured Customer Service and Claims Experience

IMG, the company that operates iTravelInsured, is very well reviewed, receiving an average of 4.6 stars out of five on Trustpilot and a 4.22 on Squaremouth. Many customers spoke highly of the company's buying process, saying that the price was reasonable, the application was easy to complete, and customer service agents were polite and knowledgeable.

That said, customer reviews of IMG's claims don't line up with the volume of outstanding reviews it has. Customers reported claims taking several months to process. Many of the five-star reviews of IMG's claims services are filed by people who have recently filed, but haven't heard back yet. 

In addition to long wait times, customers also reported that claims agents were largely unavailable, and customer service representatives, while polite, were ultimately powerless in escalating a claim. Additionally, multiple customers reported only receiving partial compensation without explanation. One customer mentioned that mental illness was not included as a covered illness, writing, "Almost a medieval view of what constitutes an illness."

While IMG and iTravelInsured aren't alone when it comes to a long, uncommunicative claims process, it's even more concerning that IMG's customer service team doesn't respond to any reviews, which is often a good way to reach your insurance provider. 

Learn more about how iTravelInsured travel insurance compares to top travel insurance providers. 

iTravelInsured vs. AIG Travel Guard

We'll look at a couple of different plans from both iTravelInsured and AIG Travel Guard  to compare and contrast the coverage between the two companies.

We'll start with iTravelInsured's Travel Essential and AIG's Essential plans.

AIG's Essential plan covers trip cancellations with up to $100,0000 in coverage, up to $150,000 in emergency medical evacuation expenses, and up to $100 per day ($500 total) for delays of 12 or more hours, and coverage for lost or delayed baggage.

In comparison, iTravelInsured's Travel Essential offers trip cancellation coverage of 100% of the trip cost, $0 of emergency medical evacuation coverage, up to $2,000 (with a $250 daily limit) for trip delays of 12+ hours, and no lost or delayed baggage coverage.

So in this instance, it's pretty easy to decipher the main differences between these plans. And to see that you'll get much better coverage with AIG's Essential plan.

Now we'll look at both of the highest-tier plans from each provider.

AIG's Deluxe plan, the highest-tier option, provides trip cancellation coverage of up to $150,000, emergency medical evacuation coverage of up to $1,000,000, up to $200 per day ($1,000 maximum) reimbursement for travel delays of 12+ hours, and coverage for delayed or lost baggage.

iTravelInsured's Travel LX plan provides trip cancellation coverage of 100% of the trip cost, up to $1,000,000 in emergency medical evacuation, up to $2,500 with a $250 daily limit )reimbursement for travel delays of 6+ hours, and relatively high limits on coverage for delayed or lost baggage.

In this instance, the Travel LX policy provides superior coverage. But it's important to always get quotes for your particular situation to find the policy that best fits your needs and budget.

Read our AIG Travel Guard insurance review here.

iTravelInsured vs. Allianz Travel Insurance

Both iTravelInsured and Allianz offer various plans with varying levels of coverage designed for different types of travelers. These include single-trip plans and policies covering those who take multiple trips per year.

Allianz's most popular single-trip option is the OneTrip Prime plan, which offers trip cancellation coverage up to $100,000, trip interruption coverage up to $150,000, emergency medical coverage for $50,000, coverage for baggage loss, theft, or damage up to $1,000, and up to $800 in travel delay coverage.

iTravelInsured's most popular plan is the Travel SE plan, which provides trip cancellation coverage of 100% of trip costs, trip interruption coverage of 150% of trip costs, emergency medical coverage for $250,000 (primary coverage), coverage for baggage loss, theft, or damage up to $1,500 ($250 per item), and up to $2,000 ($125 daily limit) in travel delay coverage for delays of 12+ hours. Overall, it offers more coverage than Allianz in this example.

Again, it's best to compare quotes using your personal and trip details to determine which policy is the best for you. Various factors will determine the final cost of any of these policies.

Read our Allianz travel insurance review here.

 iTravelInsured vs. Credit Card Travel Insurance

If you have a travel credit card, check its insurance coverages before purchasing a travel insurance plan from iTravelInsured or another company. That way, you won't be paying twice for coverage you might already have! Some basic insurance coverages, like primary rental car insurance, are offered through many travel rewards credit cards.

It's worth considering whether your credit card travel protection is primary or secondary. Secondary coverage will only kick in after any other relevant travel insurance policies you have. And note that insurance provided through a credit card likely won't cover medical issues, just things like trip and baggage delays.

Once you're clear on the coverage you have through your credit cards, you can purchase travel insurance to fill in the gaps.

See our guide to the best credit cards with travel insurance.

iTravelInsured Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Yes, iTravelInsured is great for international trips, offering coverage for medical emergencies, evacuations, and adventure sports.

iTravelInsured offers adventure sports coverage in its Travel Sport plan, with coverage for sports rental equipment, medical emergency coverage for hazardous sports, and search and rescue.

Customer reviews typically indicate that iTravelInsured has an efficient claims processing system, characterized by timely responses and a supportive claims handling team.

Coverage for pre-existing conditions depends on the iTravelInsured plan you purchase. Its Travel Lite plan doesn't offer pre-existing condition waivers , but its Travel SE and Travel LX plans do, as long as you purchase your policy within the specified window. You must purchase a Travel SE policy within 20 days of your initial trip payment and your Travel LX within 24 hours of your final trip payment.

iTravelInsured stands out for its variety of plans, long trip lengths, and lower rates.

Why You Should Trust Us: How We Reviewed iTravelInsured

We looked at a variety of factors in reviewing the travel insurance plans offered by iTravelInsured. We also compared them to plans offered by other reputable travel insurance companies. And considered things like coverage limits, premiums costs, available add-ons, and more. 

Because the costs and available coverage depend primarily on the specific traveler's personal and trip details, it's best to compare a number of different options to determine which fits your needs. That way you'll know you're getting the right amount of coverage aligns with your needs and your budget.

Read more about how Business Insider reviews insurance products here.

Editorial Note: Any opinions, analyses, reviews, or recommendations expressed in this article are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, approved, or otherwise endorsed by any card issuer. Read our editorial standards .

Please note: While the offers mentioned above are accurate at the time of publication, they're subject to change at any time and may have changed, or may no longer be available.

**Enrollment required.

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Ask the Expert: What you need to know about travel insurance before you go on a trip

Canadians looking to ditch the cold this winter for a sunny destination may want to be prepared in case something goes awry.

While most of the travel issues from the pandemic aftermath are mostly resolved, the industry is still working out the kinks and travel insurance can provide protection in case things don’t go as planned, according to Matt Hands, vice-president of insurance at Ratehub.ca.

“The travel industry is still in a state of flux. It's in a much better position today than it was a year ago, but flight delays will happen,” Hands said in a recent interview with Yahoo Finance Canada.

“There’s a lot of baggage loss that happens. So having that peace of mind in coverage, which isn't quite expensive to add on to a policy – the most expensive part is obviously travel medical — is just something to give peace of mind in case something goes wrong.”

Despite this peace of mind, not everyone buys a travel insurance package before their trip. A 2022 survey from insurance software firm Ancileo found about 68 per cent of Canadians planned to buy travel insurance, while Baby Boomers (73 per cent) were most likely to purchase travel insurance.

Still, there are some tricks to travel insurance that can ensure you’re covered in case your dream trip doesn’t go as smoothly as you envisioned. Yahoo Finance Canada spoke to Hands and Suzanne Morrow, senior vice-president at InsureMyTrip.ca, to discuss all things travel insurance.

What kind of travel insurance plan do I need?

Both experts say a base travel insurance package is appropriate for a short road trip or weekend getaway in the U.S., but anything longer or further may need a more comprehensive plan.

“If you're doing any sort of risky activity, maybe you're going skiing overseas, or maybe you’re going paragliding … this is where it gets a little bit more complex,” Hands said. “You'll want to have a specific type of policy that covers more risky activities and medical coverage because standard policies won't do that.”

Additionally, pre-existing health conditions, the cost of the trip, the modes of transportation you will be using and your destination are things to consider before choosing the level of coverage you may need.

Morrow says any trip with a non-refundable portion that has already been paid is a candidate for insurance as a means to protect against cancellation or interruptions.

“If they're planning a trip and they've put money on the line, they may want to have coverage should something happen to cancel their trip,” she said

Read the fine print and check your credit card insurance

Many Canadians will have some level of travel insurance coverage through either their credit card plan or employer, but it’s important to check exactly what level of coverage these plans provide.

“With credit card (travel insurance), anything you want coverage for has to be purchased through your credit card, which makes sense,” Morrow said.

“If it's limited coverage for things that you're concerned about, you may want to look into buying something in the retail market.”

Morrow adds that many employers only offer emergency medical insurance through company benefits, meaning travellers will likely need to look elsewhere for trip cancellation insurance.

“Know what you have so that you can plan for what you may need to buy,” she said.

“The biggest mistake that we hear about is people assume that they are covered. They don't check, they don't verify, they just assume they're good.”

What snowbirds need to know

Snowbirds, or older Canadians who spend their winters in a warmer climate, should consider their own type of insurance package, Hands says. These packages offer multi-trip coverage over an extended stay and include robust coverage for medical expenses, he adds.

“They're all-inclusive, they include a lot of travel medical coverage, because they're designed with an older clientele in mind, so they're expecting them to need potentially hospital treatment, medical supplies, ambulance services, or physician services, or even as much as emergency dental work, or emergency return to Canada,” Hands said.

According to Statistics Canada , as many as 375,000 Canadians spend at least part of their winter in the U.S. or Mexico. The number of snowbirds may soon rise as well, as Canada’s population ages and U.S. officials consider loosening restrictions on snowbird travel.

Hands says snowbirds considering spending more than a month away from home should tell their home insurance provider about their travel plans.

“If you were to leave, and you had nobody checking on your house, or you didn't do the proper precautions in terms of pipes freezing someone and something happens, they can easily reject your claim,” he said.

Ben Cousins is a freelance journalist based in Toronto. Follow him on Twitter @cousins_ben .

Download the Yahoo Finance app, available for Apple and Android .

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Insuremytrip explains travel insurance for canadian campers.

TORONTO, May 22, 2024 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- As Canada's camping season commences, enthusiasts are set to enjoy some of the world's most breathtaking natural reserves and vast wilderness areas. With the camping industry projected to generate $331 million this year, InsureMyTrip.ca shares vital tips for a secure and enjoyable experience.

Key Safety Recommendation for Campers:

Food Safety - Campers are advised to store food securely away from tents and elevated off the ground to prevent wildlife encounters.

Fire Compliance - During dry conditions, be vigilant of fire bans and maintain clean surroundings to prevent wildfires.

Protection Against Poisonous Plants - Wear protective clothing and carry remedies like calamine lotion when hiking through areas with potential plant hazards.

High Altitude Health Precautions - Stay hydrated and be aware of altitude sickness symptoms such as headaches and nausea.

Emergency Medical Travel Insurance - If you are travelling to another province, territory, or country to camp, your Canadian Government Health Insurance Plan may only partially protect you.  An All-Inclusive policy is a good way to protect you from costly medical emergencies and other unexpected travel-related issues like trip cancellation/interruption and baggage loss/delay.

Understanding Travel Insurance for Campers: Travel insurance can help cover various unexpected issues that can occur while camping.

Campsite Reservation Costs - Prepaid, non-refundable campsite reservations can be insured.

Camper/RV Rental Fees - Similar coverage applies for pre-booked, non-refundable RV rental fees.

Travel Complication - Coverage may include trip cancellations or interruptions due to accidents, breakdowns, or road closures.

Natural Disasters - Depending on the policy, coverage might extend to situations where a campsite becomes uninhabitable due to natural events, contingent on travel advisories.

It’s extremely important to read through and understand what a policy does and does not cover.  If you have any questions, InsureMyTrip’s licensed Customer Care representatives can walk you through a plan, so you better understand what you’re buying.

Our travel insurance expert is available for interview on how a policy can protect you from the unexpected while camping.

Media Contact:  Meghan Kayata  [email protected]

About InsureMyTrip  You like options. We do too. InsureMyTrip finds you the right travel insurance plan, every time. We are committed to empowering travellers to make the best possible insurance decisions by leveraging our technology, data intelligence, and expertise. InsureMyTrip is based in the U.S. with an office in Toronto.

Not available to Quebec residents.

• Manage Subscription

Which Medicare plans cover emergency medical care overseas?

May 18, 2024 at 5:47 p.m.

by Toni King

I met with you in 2023 for a Toni Says personalized Medicare consultation. I have a quick question regarding travel outside the United States because I'm planning a trip to Italy in September. Which Medicare plans cover emergency medical costs while traveling overseas?

I received Medicare advice from my travel agent that has me very confused. I was informed that some Medicare plans, such as Plan F, give foreign travel medical coverage, but others, including Plan G, which I am enrolled in, do not. Is this true?

— Laura from Dallas

Hello Laura,

The advice that you were given is not accurate.

Medicare does not cover emergency medical care during foreign travel. It is an added benefit that a Medicare supplement plan (Medigap) covers.

Medicare supplement plans F and G (as well as C, D, M and N) will all cover the same limited amount of emergency foreign travel. These plans pay for emergency care during the first 60 days of a trip outside of the United States. There is a $250 deductible, and the Medicare supplement plan "only" pays 80%, up to a lifetime maximum benefit of $50,000. You pay 20% and any amounts over the $50,000 lifetime maximum.

Who knows what an air ambulance anywhere overseas will cost? Laura, discuss with your travel agent or explore online for true travelers' insurance that will take care of any medical needs while traveling in countries worldwide.

But beware, because not all travel insurance plans include medical coverage. It's important to read the plan's conditions and restrictions before purchasing the travel insurance policy.

Another important note: Original Medicare and Medicare Part D plans take care of medical and prescription drug expenses in the United States only. So be sure you bring enough of your prescription medication while you are overseas, or you will have to pay out-of-pocket.

There are, however, new Medicare Advantage (Part C) plans that pay for medical expenses overseas. Be sure that you are covered with that specific plan in case you have a medical event with foreign travel overseas. Call the Medicare Advantage plan to verify how to receive emergency medical benefits when out of the United States, because coverage and rules vary depending on which plan is selected.

Readers, do not forget there is a Medicare rule that one cannot be enrolled in original Medicare with a supplement and a Medicare Advantage plan at the same time.

Laura, the travel agent you were speaking with is also unaware that plan F is no longer available for those enrolling in Medicare Part A as of Jan. 1, 2020. (Chapter 3 of the "Medicare Survival Guide" discusses the rules of enrolling in a Medicare supplement plan.) Anyone enrolled in a Medicare supplement Plan F who wants to change to a Plan G or N, which has lower premiums but higher out-of-pocket costs, will have to answer medical underwriting questions to qualify for that specific plan.

The differences between Medicare supplement Plan G and Plan N are:

— Plan G offers lower premiums and the same Medicare benefits as Plan F except the Medicare Part B deductible is not covered and will be paid for by the enrolled Medicare beneficiary. The Part B deductible for 2024 is $240, which is Plan G's out-of-pocket.

— Plan N generally has a lower premium than Plan G with higher out-of-pocket costs. There is a $20 copay for a doctor's visit and a $50 copay for the emergency room. The Part B deductible is also not covered, and the Part B "excess charges" are not paid for by the insurance company (which Plan G covers).

Laura, this is not the first time someone has contacted the Toni Says Medicare team because of inaccurate Medicare information. Readers, always check your coverage before travelling overseas.

Toni King is an author and columnist on Medicare and health insurance issues. She has spent nearly 30 years as a top sales leader in the field. If you have a Medicare question, email [email protected] or call 832-519-8664. The "Medicare Survival Guide Advanced" edition and her new "Confused about Medicare" video series are available at www.tonisays.com.

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Ensuring affordable medicine and contraceptives for all Canadians

From: Global Affairs Canada

News release

Canadians should have access to quality medicines, regardless of where they live or their ability to pay. People should not have to choose between paying for their medications and putting food on the table. Unfortunately, many Canadians are still forced to make this impossible decision.

May 24, 2024 - London, Ontario - Global Affairs Canada

That’s why today the Honourable Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development, joined the Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business, to reiterate the government of Canada’s commitment to help make essential and preventive medications more accessible and affordable.

In February 2024, the Government of Canada introduced legislation that proposes foundational principles for the first phase of national universal pharmacare in Canada and the intent to work with provinces and territories to provide universal, single-payer coverage for a number of contraceptives and diabetes medications. The Pharmacare Act is a concrete step towards the vision of a national pharmacare program that is accessible, inclusive, and fiscally sustainable—today and for the next generation.

Coverage for contraceptives will mean that nine million Canadians of reproductive age will have better access to contraception and reproductive autonomy, reducing the risk of unintended pregnancies and improving their ability to plan for the future. Cost has consistently been identified as the single most important barrier to accessing these medications and the cost is unevenly borne by women and gender-diverse Canadians. Canadians of reproductive age will now have affordable access to a comprehensive suite of contraceptive drugs and devices.

“Fairness for every generation starts with making public healthcare accessible for every Canadian. That’s why our government is making common contraceptives and diabetes medication free and universally accessible for all. Because no matter your age, your income or your circumstances, everyone should be able to get the care they need.” - Ahmed Hussen, Minister of International Development

“Our government believes that women should have the right to choose—no matter what their income is. Our National Pharmacare Program is going to ensure that women have the freedom to choose the contraceptives they need without the cost getting in the way.” -Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business

Quick facts

On December 18, 2023, the Government of Canada announced the creation of the Canadian Drug Agency with an investment of over $89.5 million over five years, starting in 2024-25. The Agency will provide the dedicated leadership and coordination needed to make Canada’s drug system more sustainable and prepared for the future and help Canadians achieve better health outcomes.

On March 22, 2023, the Government of Canada announced measures in support of the first-ever National Strategy for Drugs for Rare Diseases , with an investment of up to $1.5 billion over three years to help increase access to, and the affordability of, effective drugs for rare diseases.

Associated links

• Backgrounder: Universal Access to Contraception
• Backgrounder: Universal Access to Diabetes Medications, and Diabetes Device Fund for Devices and Supplies
• Final Report of the Advisory Council on the Implementation of National Pharmacare
• Prescription drug insurance coverage

Olivia Batten Press Secretary Office of the Minister of International Development [email protected]

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