Another important issue for newcomers to Canada is the availability of  a Health Care Card. People need a Health Care Card to go to the hospital and perform medical services.

In Canada, the  Health Care Card has its own name and process in each province or territory. It allows you to use government medical services (such as going to a doctor or hospital). Below is information about different cities and provinces in Canada:

 1. Provinces and Health Card Name

Each province or territory has its own health system, and its health card has a specific name:

 2. Requirements for the issuance of a health card

The general requirements for obtaining a health card are similar across Canada, but the details may vary. Here are the general requirements:

A) Required Documents:

1. Identity Documents:
• Passport or Permanent Resident Card (PR Card).
• Temporary resident visa (if applicable).
2. Proof of Residency:
• Lease, utility bill, or bank proof showing your address.
3. Proof of immigration status:
• Documents that show your legal status in Canada (such as the Confirmation of Permanent Residence – COPR).

B) Specific conditions for each province:

 38,000,000 (OHIP):

• Stay at least 153 days per year in the province of Ontario.
• The  OHIP card is usually issued three months after arrival in Canada (waiting period), although there are also cases where the documents are issued less than one month after the documents are completed.

British Columbia (BC):

• You must  have resided in British Columbia for at least three months to be eligible.
• You will need to enroll in an MSP (Medical Services Plan) to receive a BC Services Card.

Alberta:

• The health card will be issued immediately upon arrival and submission of the necessary documents (no waiting period).

Quebec (RAMQ):

• Stay for at least three months and provide the necessary documents.
• For students and temporary workers, additional documents are required.

Manitoba:

• Stay  in Manitoba for at least 6 months.
• A health card can be obtained if you have a  COPR or a work visa.

3. Important Points

1. Cost: In most provinces, receiving a health card is free.
2. Waiting time: Some provinces, such as Ontario and Quebec, have a 3-month waiting period. During this time, you will need to take out private insurance.
3. Card Renewal: Cards have an expiration date and must be renewed before they expire.

4. The process of obtaining a health card

General Steps:

1. Online or in-person registration:
• Visit your province's health services website or go to in-person service offices (Service Canada, ServiceOntario, etc.).
2. Submission of Documents:
• Provide the documents listed above.
3. Get Card:
• Your health card will usually be sent within 2 to 6 weeks of enrollment.

5. Useful Links for Registration in Provinces

• 38, 2012: OHIP
• British Columbia: BC MSP
• Alberta : Alberta Health
• Quebec: RAMQ
• Manitaba : Manitaba Health