Insurance Options for Newcomers to Ontario: Travel, Health & Dental, and Life Coverage

Daniel Iannacito
Nov 21
3 min read

Moving to Ontario—whether temporarily or permanently—is exciting, but it comes with new responsibilities. One of the most important things newcomers should understand is how insurance works in Canada. Unlike many countries, Ontario has strict rules around healthcare coverage, and private insurance often plays a major role during your first months here.

This guide focuses on the three most important types of insurance for newcomers: travel insurance, health & dental insurance, and life insurance.

1. Travel Insurance: Essential for Visitors and Newcomers

If you’re visiting Ontario—whether as a tourist, visiting family, or arriving on a work or study permit—you are not automatically covered under Ontario’s public health plan (OHIP).

Why Travel Insurance Matters

Medical costs in Canada are high. A simple emergency room visit can cost hundreds or even thousands of dollars. Travel insurance protects you from unexpected financial strain by covering:

Emergency medical treatment
Hospital stays
Ambulance services
Prescription medications during emergencies
Repatriation (return home for medical reasons)
Trip interruption or cancellation (optional)

Super Visa Visitors

Parents and grandparents visiting under Canada’s Super Visa program are required to have emergency medical coverage of at least $100,000 for the duration of their stay, usually 1–2 years.

Bridging the OHIP Waiting Period

New permanent residents or temporary workers may face a waiting period before OHIP coverage begins. Travel insurance ensures you’re protected during this transition.

2. Health & Dental Insurance: Filling the Gaps

Ontario’s public healthcare system, OHIP, provides excellent coverage for many medical services—but it doesn’t cover everything.

OHIP Coverage

Doctor visits
Emergency room visits
Hospital stays
Diagnostic tests ordered by physicians

What OHIP Does Not Cover

Routine dental care
Prescription medications for adults under 65
Vision exams for adults
Paramedical services like physiotherapy, massage, and chiropractic care
Ambulance fees

Private Health & Dental Plans

Private plans help newcomers manage these gaps, covering:

Dental cleanings, fillings, and extractions
Prescription medications
Vision care
Mental health counselling
Paramedical treatments
Emergency medical coverage

For newcomers without employer-provided benefits, a private plan is essential to avoid high out-of-pocket costs.

3. Life Insurance: Protecting Your Family and Future

Life insurance is often overlooked during immigration, but it’s a key part of financial security.

Why Newcomers Should Consider Life Insurance

Protects your family from financial hardship
Covers mortgages, loans, and final expenses
Locks in lower premiums while you are young
Supports estate planning, especially for families with assets in multiple countries

Eligibility for Newcomers

Even without Canadian credit history or long-term residency, newcomers can often qualify for:

Term life insurance: Affordable coverage for a set period (10–30 years)
Permanent life insurance: Builds cash value and lasts a lifetime
No-medical or simplified issue policies: For those with health concerns or limited documentation

Life insurance is especially important if you are supporting family abroad, purchasing a home in Canada, or raising children.

How to Prioritize Your Insurance as a Newcomer

Travel Insurance – Before or immediately upon arrival, to cover emergencies until OHIP eligibility.
Health & Dental Insurance – Protects against routine and unexpected medical expenses.
Life Insurance – Long-term protection for your family and financial future.

Final Thoughts

Settling in Ontario is an exciting journey, but navigating the insurance landscape can feel overwhelming. Understanding your options for travel, health & dental, and life insurance ensures you and your loved ones are protected from day one.

If you want a clear comparison of options and plans for newcomers, I can help break it down so you can make informed decisions without stress.