Health Insurance Requirements for IEC Participants in Canada

If you’re participating in the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, securing appropriate health insurance is mandatory. Without it, you may be denied entry at the border, even with an approved IEC work permit.

This guide covers:

• Why IEC participants need health insurance
• Required coverage
• Choosing the right policy
• Specific considerations for working in Quebec
• Consequences of arriving without insurance

Why Do IEC Participants Need Health Insurance?

IEC participants, including those in the Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-op categories, are not covered by Canada’s public healthcare system. Therefore, private health insurance is necessary to cover medical expenses, emergencies, and hospital visits during your stay.

Key Reasons for Coverage:

• Mandatory by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)
• Healthcare costs can be expensive
• Employment requirements: Some jobs may require proof of health insurance
• Protection against unexpected medical issues

What Kind of Health Insurance Do You Need for IEC?

IRCC specifies that your insurance policy must:

• Cover medical care, hospitalization, and repatriation (returning you to your home country in case of severe illness, injury, or death)
• Be valid for your entire stay in Canada
• Be purchased before arrival in Canada

If your insurance is valid for less than your intended stay, your work permit may be shortened to match the insurance duration. Extending your work permit later due to insurance limitations is not permitted.

How to Choose the Right Health Insurance for IEC

When selecting a policy, consider the following:

• Coverage Amount: Ensure it covers at least $100,000 CAD for medical expenses.
• Hospitalization & Emergency Care: Includes hospital visits, ambulance fees, and prescription medications.
• Repatriation & Evacuation: Required by IRCC for returning you to your home country if necessary.
• Sports & Adventure Activities: If you plan to engage in activities like skiing or snowboarding, confirm inclusion.
• Direct Billing vs. Reimbursement: Understand if the plan pays hospitals directly or requires you to pay upfront and get reimbursed.
• COVID-19 Coverage: Check if treatment for COVID-19-related illnesses is included.

If you plan to work in Quebec, be aware that some countries have agreements with the province, allowing IEC participants to access the Quebec Health Insurance Plan. Even if you are eligible for Quebec’s health insurance, it does not cover repatriation. IRCC mandates that you must purchase additional private insurance that covers repatriation. 

What Happens If You Arrive in Canada Without Insurance?

• Entry Denial or Shortened Work Permit: You may be denied entry or receive a work permit that expires with your insurance.
• Immediate Purchase Requirement: You might be required to buy insurance on the spot, which can be costly and offer limited coverage.
• Out-of-Pocket Medical Expenses: Without insurance, you’ll bear the full cost of any medical care, which can be substantial.

To avoid these issues, ensure you have comprehensive health insurance before arriving in Canada.

Final Tips for IEC Health Insurance

1. Purchase a Policy Covering Your Entire Stay: Align your insurance duration with your work permit.
2. Carry Proof of Insurance: Have a printed copy of your policy when entering Canada, as border officers may request it.
3. Understand Your Coverage: Read the policy details thoroughly to know what’s included and excluded.

Having the appropriate health insurance ensures compliance with IRCC requirements and protects you from high medical costs during your stay in Canada.

BorderPass makes the immigration process more transparent, affordable, and clear for IEC participants. Apply to participate in IEC today.