Mandatory Coverage

Secure Your Health in Canada

Health insurance is mandatory for all international students in Canada. Whether you need a University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP), provincial coverage (like MSP/OHIP), or private insurance, we help you find the right protection.

Provincial

Plan Guidance

Private

Coverage Options

Get Canada Insurance Quote

Find the best plan for your province.

How It Works in Canada

Health Insurance Card
01

Provincial Health Plans

In some provinces like British Columbia (MSP) and Alberta (AHCIP), international students are eligible for free or low-cost provincial health coverage. We help you understand if you qualify and how to apply for your health card upon arrival.

  • Covers basic doctor visits
  • Covers hospital stays

University & Private Plans

In provinces like Ontario, international students are not covered by the provincial plan (OHIP). Instead, universities mandate private plans like UHIP (University Health Insurance Plan) or Guard.me. We guide you on enrollment and what these plans cover.

  • Mandatory for registration
  • Often included in tuition fees
Private Insurance Policy
02
Extended Health Benefits
03

Extended Health Benefits

Basic provincial or university plans often don’t cover dental, vision, or prescription drugs. We help you find affordable “extended health” add-ons so you aren’t paying out-of-pocket for a dentist appointment or eye exam.

  • Dental & Vision coverage
  • Prescription drug plans

Top Insurance Partners

We work with Canada’s most trusted insurance providers to ensure your safety.

Manulife

Canada Wide

Trusted

Blue Cross

Canada Wide

Popular

Sun Life

Canada Wide

Premium

Guard.me

International Students

Cowan

University Plans (UHIP)

Get Advice

Confused about provinces?

Talk to Expert →

Canada Insurance FAQs

Is health insurance free in Canada for students?

It depends on the province. In British Columbia (MSP) and Saskatchewan, international students may be eligible for free or low-cost provincial coverage. In Ontario, Manitoba, and others, you must pay for private insurance or university plans like UHIP.

What is UHIP?

The University Health Insurance Plan (UHIP) is a mandatory health insurance plan for all international students and workers at participating universities in Ontario. It provides coverage similar to OHIP.

Can I opt out of the university health plan?

In some cases, yes. If you have equivalent coverage (e.g., from your home government or a sponsorship), you may apply for an exemption or “opt-out” from the university plan, but you must provide proof of coverage.

Start your studies worry-free

Get the right health coverage for your province today.

Get Covered Now