Visitors Insurance
Visitors to Canada Insurance:
Complete 2026 Guide
Quick Answer
Visitors to Canada insurance is emergency medical coverage for anyone visiting Canada who is not covered by a provincial health plan. It is not mandatory for tourists but is strongly recommended. Without it, a single hospital day can cost $5,000 to $10,000 out of pocket. Super Visa applicants must have it by law.
Not Mandatory
For tourists, but strongly recommended
$10K+
Coverage starts from $10,000
$10K/day
Typical ICU cost for uninsured visitors
15+
Canadian insurers compared by EGE
Table of Contents
- What Is Visitors to Canada Insurance?
- Who Needs Visitors Insurance in Canada?
- What Does Visitors Insurance Cover?
- How Much Does It Cost in 2026?
- How Much Coverage Do You Need?
- Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage
- Best Visitors Insurance Companies in Canada 2026
- Visitors Insurance vs Super Visa Insurance
- How to Buy Visitors Insurance in Canada
- Frequently Asked Questions
1 What Is Visitors to Canada Insurance?
Canada's public healthcare does not cover foreign visitors. Visitors to Canada insurance protects against emergency medical costs that can run into tens of thousands of dollars.
Visitors to Canada insurance is emergency medical coverage designed for anyone visiting Canada who is not covered by a Canadian provincial or territorial health plan. This includes tourists, parents and grandparents on a Super Visa, international students during waiting periods, new immigrants before provincial coverage starts, and returning Canadians who have lost provincial coverage.
Canada does not provide any public healthcare coverage to foreign nationals. A visitor who becomes ill or is injured while in Canada is responsible for 100 percent of their medical costs. These costs can be substantial. According to current data, a single day in a Canadian intensive care unit can cost $5,000 to $10,000 for an uninsured visitor, and a major medical emergency can easily exceed $100,000.
Provincial health plans do not cover visitors. Even if a visitor is staying with a Canadian citizen or permanent resident, they have no access to provincial healthcare. OHIP, AHCIP, MSP, and all other provincial plans are strictly for residents of that province. Visitors insurance is the only financial protection available.
2 Who Needs Visitors to Canada Insurance?
Visitors insurance is relevant for a wide range of people entering Canada. While it is not legally mandatory for tourists, it is essential protection for anyone who is not covered by a Canadian provincial health plan.
- Tourists and short-term visitors entering Canada on a visitor visa or Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA). Not mandatory but strongly recommended.
- Parents and grandparents on a Super Visa. Visitors insurance that meets IRCC's specific requirements is mandatory for Super Visa holders. The policy must provide at least $100,000 from a qualifying insurer, valid for at least one year.
- International students during the gap between arrival and the start of provincial student health coverage or school health plan enrollment.
- New immigrants and permanent residents during the waiting period before provincial health coverage begins, which can be up to three months in some provinces.
- Returning Canadians who have lived abroad and are not yet eligible for provincial coverage after returning to Canada.
- Work permit holders who are not yet covered by an employer health plan or provincial insurance.
3 What Does Visitors to Canada Insurance Cover?
Visitors insurance is an emergency medical policy. It is designed to cover unexpected illnesses and injuries, not routine or elective care. The following is a standard overview of what most Canadian visitors insurance plans include and exclude.
What Is Typically Covered
- Emergency hospital care including emergency room visits, physician fees, surgery, and intensive care unit stays
- Diagnostic tests including X-rays, blood tests, and imaging ordered as part of an emergency assessment
- Ambulance services including ground and air ambulance to the nearest appropriate medical facility
- Prescription medications dispensed during hospitalization or for up to 30 days for a covered emergency
- Emergency dental treatment resulting from an accidental blow to the teeth or mouth
- Repatriation back to the country of origin if medically necessary or in the event of death
- Follow-up visits related to a covered emergency, typically for a limited number of visits after the initial emergency treatment
- Stable pre-existing conditions if the appropriate pre-existing condition plan or rider is purchased and the stability requirements are met
What Is Typically Not Covered
- Routine medical care, regular checkups, planned surgeries, or non-emergency specialist consultations
- Unstable pre-existing conditions unless a specific rider covering unstable conditions is purchased (available from TuGo for eligible applicants)
- Dental care other than emergency dental resulting from an accident
- Pregnancy and childbirth in most standard plans, unless the emergency is life-threatening
- Mental health treatment in most standard plans
- Experimental or non-approved treatments
- Treatment in the visitor's home country. Coverage applies only while in Canada, not after the visitor returns home.
48-hour waiting period if purchased after arrival. If you buy Visitors insurance after arriving in Canada, most insurers apply a 48-hour waiting period before sickness coverage begins. Accident coverage typically starts immediately. To avoid any waiting period entirely, purchase your policy before your arrival date in Canada.
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4 How Much Does Visitors to Canada Insurance Cost in 2026?
Visitors insurance in Canada is priced based on the visitor's age, the length of the trip, the coverage amount selected, the deductible, and whether pre-existing condition coverage is required. Younger, healthier visitors on short trips pay significantly less than older visitors with health conditions on extended stays.
Approximate Monthly Cost by Age (2026)
| Age Group | $100K Coverage, No Deductible | $100K Coverage, $500 Deductible | With Pre-Existing Conditions |
|---|---|---|---|
| Under 40 | $30 to $60/month | $20 to $45/month | +30 to 50% |
| 40 to 54 | $50 to $110/month | $35 to $80/month | +30 to 60% |
| 55 to 64 | $90 to $160/month | $65 to $120/month | +30 to 60% |
| 65 to 69 | $150 to $220/month | $110 to $165/month | +30 to 80% |
| 70 to 74 | $200 to $300/month | $150 to $225/month | +30 to 80% |
| 75 to 79 | $270 to $400/month | $200 to $300/month | +30 to 100% |
| Approximate monthly rates for $100,000 coverage. Actual rates depend on insurer, trip duration, and full health history. Get a personalized quote at egeinsure.ca | |||
Key Factors That Affect the Cost
- Age. The single largest pricing factor. Premiums increase significantly after age 60 and again after 70.
- Trip duration. Longer stays cost more. A 6-month policy costs more than a 30-day policy for the same applicant.
- Coverage amount. Plans start from as low as $10,000 to $15,000 for basic coverage. Most advisors recommend a minimum of $100,000.
- Deductible. Choosing a $500 to $1,000 deductible can reduce the monthly premium by 20 to 35 percent.
- Pre-existing conditions. If stable conditions need to be covered, premiums increase by 30 to 100 percent depending on the condition and the insurer.
- Province of stay. Healthcare costs vary by province. Some insurers price differently for Ontario and British Columbia, where healthcare costs tend to be higher.
5 How Much Coverage Do Visitors to Canada Need?
Visitors insurance coverage amounts range from $10,000 to $1,000,000 depending on the insurer and the plan selected. While lower coverage amounts are less expensive, they may not be sufficient to cover a serious medical event in Canada.
Coverage Amount Recommendations
| Coverage Amount | Best Suited For | Adequate For | May Not Cover |
|---|---|---|---|
| $10,000 to $25,000 | Very short trips, young and healthy visitors | Minor emergencies, stitches, basic care | Hospital admission, surgery, ICU |
| $50,000 | Short trips, under 50, healthy | Most emergency room visits | Extended hospital stays |
| $100,000 | Most visitors, widely recommended minimum | Most emergencies including short hospitalizations | Prolonged ICU stays, major surgeries |
| $150,000 to $200,000 | Ages 60 to 69, moderate health history | Most hospitalizations and surgeries | Very extended critical care |
| $300,000 to $500,000 | Visitors over 70, complex health history | Most major medical events | Extremely prolonged critical care |
| EGE Insurance recommends a minimum of $100,000 for all visitors. For visitors over 65 or those with pre-existing conditions, $150,000 or higher provides meaningfully better protection. | |||
To put the coverage amounts in context: a single night in a Canadian hospital intensive care unit typically costs $5,000 to $10,000 for an uninsured visitor. A cardiac event requiring surgery and rehabilitation can exceed $200,000. A major trauma from an accident can exceed $500,000 in total medical costs. $10,000 to $25,000 in coverage is insufficient for anything beyond a minor emergency.
6 Pre-Existing Conditions Coverage for Visitors to Canada
Several Canadian insurers offer Visitors insurance plans that cover stable pre-existing conditions. The rules are similar to those that apply to Super Visa insurance. The condition must meet the insurer's stability requirements before the policy start date, and accurate disclosure of all conditions is legally mandatory.
Stability Periods for Visitors Insurance (2026)
| Insurer | Standard Stability Period | Special Feature |
|---|---|---|
| GMS | 90 days (all ages) | Shortest standard stability in Canada |
| TuGo | 90d (under 60), 120d (60-69), 180d (70-85) | Optional 7-day unstable condition rider available |
| Allianz | 90d (under 60), 180d (60-89) | Age-based model |
| Manulife | 180 days (up to age 85) | Plan B covers stable pre-existing conditions |
| Blue Cross | 180 days | Varies by province |
| Travelance | 180 days | Minimum $100,000 required for pre-existing coverage |
| 21st Century | 365 days | Enhanced plan only |
| Stable means no new diagnosis, no medication changes, no new tests ordered, no hospitalizations, and no specialist referrals during the stability period. For the full pre-existing conditions guide: Pre-Existing Conditions Guide | ||
TuGo's unique feature: TuGo is the only major Canadian insurer offering an optional Unstable Pre-Existing Medical Condition rider for Visitors insurance. For an additional premium, this rider can cover conditions that have been stable for as little as 7 days, making it valuable for visitors who have recently experienced a health change. A medical questionnaire is required.
7 Best Visitors Insurance Companies in Canada 2026
The top Canadian insurers offering Visitors to Canada insurance in 2026 include the following. EGE Insurance works with all of these insurers and compares plans simultaneously to find the best match for each visitor's age, health profile, and budget.
Manulife
Up to age 85
Multiple plan tiers with comprehensive pre-existing condition coverage on Plan B. Strong global claims network. One of the most widely trusted names in Canadian travel insurance.
TuGo
Age-based stability · 7-day rider
Rated highly for flexibility. Age-based stability periods (90/120/180 days) and the only insurer offering an optional 7-day unstable condition rider. Covers visitors up to age 85.
GMS
90-day stability · Competitive pricing
Known for competitive pricing and the shortest standard stability period in Canada at 90 days for all ages. A strong choice for visitors with recently stable conditions.
Allianz Global Assistance
24/7 multilingual support
Strong international claims coordination and 24/7 multilingual emergency assistance. Age-based stability (90 days under 60, 180 days 60 to 89). Covers up to age 89.
21st Century
Monthly payments · 365-day stability
Popular for monthly payment plans with a 2-month deposit plus a $50 setup fee. Coverage up to $200,000. Enhanced plan covers pre-existing conditions after 365 days of stability.
Travelance
180-day stability · Monthly payments
Provides comprehensive coverage with monthly payment options. Initial deposit covers two months premium plus setup fee. 180-day stability for pre-existing conditions. Minimum $100,000.
Additional insurers available through EGE Insurance include Blue Cross, Secure Travel, Destination Canada, and MSH International. Each has different strengths in terms of pricing, pre-existing condition coverage, age limits, and claims handling. The best insurer for your visitor depends on their specific profile.
8 Visitors Insurance vs Super Visa Insurance
Visitors insurance and Super Visa insurance are related but different products. The key distinction is that Super Visa insurance is a mandatory IRCC requirement with specific minimum standards, while standard Visitors insurance is voluntary and more flexible. For a complete comparison see our dedicated guide: Super Visa vs Visitors Insurance: Key Differences
| Feature | Visitors Insurance | Super Visa Insurance |
|---|---|---|
| Mandatory | No (for tourists) | Yes (IRCC requirement) |
| Minimum coverage | No government minimum. From $10,000. | $100,000 minimum (IRCC) |
| Minimum duration | Flexible. Days to months. | 365 days minimum |
| Insurer requirement | Any insurer | Canadian insurer or OSFI-authorized foreign insurer |
| Typical cost (age 60 to 64) | $90 to $160/month | $1,400 to $1,900/year ($117 to $158/month) |
| Can satisfy Super Visa requirement | Only if it meets all IRCC requirements explicitly | Yes, by definition |
9 How to Buy Visitors to Canada Insurance
Purchasing Visitors insurance is straightforward. The following steps ensure you get the right coverage at the best available rate.
- Determine the visitor's arrival and departure dates. Coverage duration should match the intended stay. For Super Visa holders, a full year is required by IRCC regardless of the actual planned stay length.
- List all pre-existing conditions and current medications. Accurate and complete disclosure is a legal requirement. Omitting conditions can void the policy entirely.
- Choose a coverage amount. A minimum of $100,000 is recommended for most visitors. Higher amounts are advisable for visitors over 65 or those with health conditions.
- Select a deductible. A $500 to $1,000 deductible reduces the monthly premium meaningfully while keeping out-of-pocket exposure manageable.
- Compare plans from multiple insurers. Rates and pre-existing condition terms vary significantly between Canadian insurers. EGE Insurance compares 15 or more simultaneously at no cost to you.
- Purchase before arrival to avoid the 48-hour waiting period. Sickness coverage typically has a 48-hour waiting period if purchased after arrival in Canada. Purchasing before avoids this completely.
EGE Insurance advisors are available in 8 languages including Ukrainian, Russian, Turkish, Spanish, Mandarin, Cantonese, and Pidgin. Call (416) 477-1516 or visit egeinsure.ca/visitors-insurance/ to compare plans and get your coverage letter the same day.
Summary: Visitors to Canada Insurance 2026
Key Takeaways
- Visitors to Canada insurance is not legally mandatory for tourists but is strongly recommended. Without it, a hospital stay can cost $5,000 to $10,000 per day.
- Super Visa applicants must have it by law. The policy must provide at least $100,000 from a qualifying insurer, valid for one year.
- Coverage starts from as low as $10,000 to $15,000 for basic plans, up to $1,000,000 for comprehensive coverage.
- Most advisors recommend a minimum of $100,000 in coverage for all visitors to Canada.
- A 48-hour waiting period for sickness applies if purchased after arrival. Buy before arriving to avoid it.
- Pre-existing conditions can be covered if stability requirements are met: 90 days at GMS, 90 to 180 days at most insurers, 365 days at 21st Century.
- TuGo's 7-day unstable condition rider is unique in the Canadian market for visitors with recent health changes.
- Top Canadian insurers for visitors insurance include Manulife, TuGo, GMS, Allianz, 21st Century, and Travelance.
- EGE Insurance compares all of these and more to find the best plan for your visitor's age, health profile, and budget.
10 Frequently Asked Questions
Below are the most common questions about Visitors to Canada insurance in 2026.
Is Visitors to Canada insurance mandatory?
Visitors to Canada insurance is not legally mandatory for tourists entering Canada on a regular visitor visa or eTA. However, it is strongly recommended because Canada's public healthcare does not cover foreign nationals. A single emergency room visit can cost $2,000 to $5,000 and a hospital stay can exceed $10,000 per day. Super Visa applicants are required by IRCC to have a minimum of $100,000 in coverage for at least one year.
How much does Visitors to Canada insurance cost?
Visitors to Canada insurance typically costs between $30 and $400 per month depending on the visitor's age, health history, coverage amount, and trip duration. A healthy visitor under 40 on a short trip might pay $30 to $60 per month. An older visitor in their 70s for an extended stay could pay $270 to $400 per month or more. Pre-existing condition coverage adds 30 to 100 percent to the base rate.
Does Visitors insurance cover pre-existing conditions?
Yes, in many cases. Several Canadian insurers offer Visitors insurance plans that cover stable pre-existing conditions. The condition must meet the insurer's stability requirements: 90 days at GMS, 90 to 180 days at TuGo and Allianz depending on age, 180 days at Manulife and most others, and 365 days at 21st Century. TuGo also offers an optional rider covering unstable conditions after as little as 7 days of stability.
Can I buy Visitors insurance after arriving in Canada?
Yes, but with an important caveat. If you purchase Visitors insurance after arriving in Canada, most insurers apply a 48-hour waiting period before sickness coverage begins. Accident coverage usually starts immediately. To avoid any waiting period entirely, purchase your policy before your arrival date. EGE Insurance can issue the policy and letter within minutes of purchase.
What is the difference between Visitors insurance and Super Visa insurance?
Super Visa insurance is a mandatory IRCC requirement for parents and grandparents applying for a Super Visa. It must provide at least $100,000 from a qualifying insurer and be valid for at least one year. Standard Visitors insurance is voluntary coverage for any visitor with flexible amounts starting from $10,000 and flexible duration. See our full comparison: Super Visa vs Visitors Insurance: Key Differences
Which insurers offer Visitors to Canada insurance?
The top Canadian insurers for Visitors insurance in 2026 include Manulife, TuGo, GMS, Allianz, 21st Century, Blue Cross, Travelance, Secure Travel, and Destination Canada. EGE Insurance compares plans from 15 or more of these insurers simultaneously to find the most suitable option for each visitor's specific situation.
How much Visitors insurance coverage do I need?
Most advisors recommend a minimum of $100,000 in emergency medical coverage for visitors to Canada. This covers most emergency room visits, hospitalizations, and short-term care. For visitors over 65 or those with health conditions, $150,000 to $300,000 provides significantly better financial protection given that a single ICU day can cost $5,000 to $10,000 in Canada.
Can Visitors insurance be used to satisfy Super Visa requirements?
Only if the policy explicitly meets all four IRCC requirements: at least $100,000 in emergency medical coverage, from a Canadian insurer or OSFI-authorized foreign insurer, valid for at least 365 days from the date of entry, and covering health care, hospitalization, and repatriation. Always confirm IRCC compliance explicitly with the insurer before submitting a Super Visa application.
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