Expat Health Care in Canada

Published on September 30, 2025 and written by Cyril Jarnias

Canada is renowned for its excellent public healthcare system, but expatriates need to fully understand how it works and its limitations to ensure optimal coverage. Here is a comprehensive guide to accessing healthcare for expatriates in Canada.

A Public Healthcare System Among the Best in the World

The Canadian public healthcare system, known as Medicare, is recognized as one of the top-performing in the world. It provides universal coverage to all permanent residents and Canadian citizens, ensuring access to quality care without direct costs for most essential services.

Key Benefits of the Canadian Healthcare System for Expatriates:

• Free access to medical consultations and hospital care
• Coverage for basic medical exams and tests
• Coverage for necessary surgical procedures
• Regular medical follow-up without fees

However, it’s important to note that access to Medicare is not immediate for newcomers. A 3-month waiting period generally applies before you can benefit from public coverage. Additionally, certain services like dental care, vision, or medications are not covered by the public plan.

A Health Budget to Plan Despite Free Essential Care

Although the Canadian public system covers most essential care, expatriates need to budget for healthcare to handle uncovered expenses and ensure optimal protection.

Main Health Expense Categories to Anticipate:

• Supplementary private health insurance: between 50 and 200 CAD per month depending on coverage
• Dental care: 75 to 150 CAD for a routine check-up, 150 to 400 CAD for a filling
• Vision care: 100 to 300 CAD for a pair of glasses
• Prescription medications: varies by treatment

It is highly recommended to purchase supplementary private health insurance to cover these expenses not covered by the public system. This insurance will also provide faster access to certain specialized care, as wait times can sometimes be long in the public system.

The Best Private Clinics: Excellence in Care at Your Fingertips

For those who want to benefit from fast and personalized care, Canada has a network of high-quality private clinics. Here is a selection of the best private clinics in major Canadian cities:

• Rockland MD Private Medical Clinic: Renowned for its multidisciplinary approach and state-of-the-art equipment
• PRAXIS Clinic: Offers a wide range of medical and paramedical services

• Cleveland Clinic Canada: Canadian branch of the prestigious American clinic
• Medcan Clinic: Specializes in preventive medicine and comprehensive health assessments

• Copeman Healthcare Centre: Holistic approach to health with a multidisciplinary team
• False Creek Healthcare Centre: Offers advanced diagnostic services and surgical interventions

These private clinics typically offer quick appointments, state-of-the-art equipment, and personalized follow-up. They can be particularly interesting for expatriates waiting for their Medicare coverage or wanting faster access to certain specialists.

Tips to Optimize Your Health Coverage in Canada

To navigate the Canadian healthcare system effectively as an expatriate, here are some essential tips:

• Complete the registration process for the provincial health insurance plan promptly upon arrival
• Purchase supplementary private health insurance to cover services not included in Medicare
• Choose a family doctor as soon as possible to ensure regular health monitoring
• Familiarize yourself with the healthcare system in your province of residence
• Don’t hesitate to request quotes and compare prices for care not covered by Medicare

By following these recommendations, you can fully benefit from Canada’s excellent healthcare system while ensuring optimal protection.