Help CenterImportant: This is only for participants in our Work & Travel program. If you are part of the 'First-Timer Program' then see our articles in 'Health Insurance' for more information.
It is essential that you have medical insurance coverage for the full duration of your stay in Canada, you will be issued a work permit that expires at the same time as your insurance.
Length of Insurance
You must have proof of insurance for your entire stay before you fly to Canada. For example, if your contract at camp is for 12 weeks but you wish to live and work in Canada for a year on your IEC, you must take out insurance for the full 12 months, before you fly to Canada. You may be refused entry if you don’t have insurance. If your insurance policy is valid for less time than your expected stay in Canada, you may be issued a work permit that expires at the same time as your insurance. If this happens, you won’t be able to apply to extend your work permit at a later date.
The health insurance must cover
- medical care;
- hospitalization; and
- repatriation.
Understanding Your Insurance
As someone on a temporary visa, you won’t be covered by Canada’s public healthcare system unless you’re in certain provinces that allow IEC visa holders to apply for provincial healthcare (e.g., British Columbia or Ontario after a waiting period). Regardless, your work permit will be issued based on the length of the insurance you have purchased.
Medical Information
Do I need to disclose my medical history on my application?
It's important that you supply us with information on your medical history, but this is optional. If you feel comfortable sharing your medical history information please do so below, and we will then follow up with our dedicated well-being team who will open a conversation on how we can provide whatever additional support we can provide.
Can I travel with my prescription medication?
You will need to review the latest advice by the Government of Canada about travelling into Canada with medications.
Can I purchase medication in Canada?
Purchasing medication in Canada can be very expensive. We do not recommend this, even with a prescription from your Doctor.
Consult your Doctor by letting them know the number of days you will be travelling for or expect to be travelling. We always recommend bringing extra if your Doctor will allow it, just in case!
Your camp may provide over-the-counter medication in their medical centre (e.g., paracetamol) be sure to ask them before you arrive in Canada if you need this type of medication regularly.