Canada does not issue one national health card. Apply to the public health insurance plan in the province or territory where you live.
Check eligibility and start date
The plan will specify which immigration documents and proof of residence it accepts. Students, temporary workers and accompanying family members may have different rules. Do not assume that entering Canada automatically activates coverage.
Ask whether there is a waiting period. If coverage does not begin immediately, compare temporary private insurance carefully and check exclusions for existing conditions, pregnancy, prescriptions and emergency transportation.
Prepare the application
You may need identity, immigration and residence documents. Use the plan’s current checklist. Apply through the official office or website and keep the confirmation.
Do not pay a third party merely to obtain a public health card application.
Know what the card does not cover
Public plans generally cover medically necessary physician and hospital services, but coverage for prescription drugs, dental care, eye care, physiotherapy, ambulances and other services varies. Employer plans and provincial programs may cover some additional costs.
Ask about fees before receiving a service that may not be insured.
Find routine care
Your provincial or territorial health ministry may have a doctor or nurse-practitioner finder, health advice line or virtual-care information. Community health centres and newcomer clinics may serve people facing language or access barriers.
For urgent medical danger, call 911. For a health question that is not an emergency, use the health advice service in your jurisdiction.
Protect your health card
Use it only for health services. Report a lost card to the issuing plan. Do not lend it to another person or send a copy to an unverified caller.