When it comes to health care coverage for temporary foreign workers in Canada, it's important to know that each province has its own set of rules and requirements.

It is highly recommended for temporary foreign workers to work with their employers and consider private health insurance plans during waiting periods or if their employment does not qualify them for provincial coverage. These private plans can provide coverage for medical emergencies, including hospitalization, emergency dental repair, and prescription drugs. It is recommended you consult with your Employer to validate what benefits they provide as part of your job offer, and seek expert advice to clarify that you are covered appropriately before you arrive.

(TFWs) hired under the Temporary Foreign Worker Program
If there is a period where you're not covered by the provincial or territorial health insurance where you’re working, your employer must obtain and pay for your private health insurance that covers emergency medical care. Please note, to apply for provincial health insurance you will require your SIN number.

Here's a brief overview of what temporary foreign workers can expect in different provinces, along with links to the official government websites for more detailed information.

It is important to note that all programs are subject to change without prior notice. This includes the eligibility period. Please consult with an expert or the provincial/territorial agencies directly if you have questions.

Alberta

Temporary Foreign workers in Alberta must establish residency and intend to stay for at least 12 months to qualify for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP).

A work permit of at least 6 months is necessary for eligibility.

Emergency medical care is provided regardless of insurance status.

For more details, visit the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan.

British Columbia

There is a waiting period of up to three months before the Medical Services Plan (MSP) starts covering health care costs.

For further information, refer to the Medical Services Plan of British Columbia.

Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan does not apply a waiting period for provincial health insurance coverage when you begin your residency in the province but it requires an application on Saskatchewan E-health with proof of residency.

Once you have applied for health coverage you are issued a number which can be used until your health card arrives. If you do not have your number, please call the call center to get access to the number before you visit a health clinic. 

This is a significant advantage for temporary foreign workers moving directly to Saskatchewan from another country.

For more details, check out Saskatchewan Health Coverage.

Ontario

Ontario does not have a waiting period, but temporary foreign workers need to have full-time employment to qualify for the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).

Further information can be found on the Ontario Health Insurance Plan page.

Quebec, Nunavut, and Yukon

In these provinces, there is a typical waiting period of approximately 2-3 months before eligibility for public health care.

For Quebec, visit Quebec Health Insurance.

For Nunavut, refer to Nunavut Health Care Plan.

For Yukon, see Yukon Health and Social Services.

Manitoba

Manitoba does not apply a waiting period for provincial health insurance coverage if you begin your residency in the province before the first day of the issuance of your work permit following your arrival in Canada.

This is a significant advantage for foreign workers moving directly to Manitoba from another country or other province.

For more details, check out https://www.gov.mb.ca/health/

Employers and temporary foreign workers should be aware of these variations in health care coverage and plan accordingly. During any waiting periods or in cases where temporary foreign workers might not be eligible for provincial coverage, it's advisable to consider private health insurance. Understanding these requirements is crucial for temporary foreign workers to ensure they have the necessary health care coverage during their stay in Canada.