A Newcomer’s Guide to Paying for Health Care in Ontario

Moving to a new country means learning a new health system. Ontario’s system is mostly publicly funded, but many everyday services are not covered. This guide explains the basics and where to find lower-cost care. Rules differ by immigration status, so always confirm your own situation with an official source.

Step 1: Find out if you are eligible for OHIP

The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) covers many medical services, such as doctor visits and hospital care, for eligible residents. Eligibility depends on your immigration status, how long you plan to stay and other factors. Apply through ServiceOntario. The process and documents required change, so check the official site.

Step 2: Understand other types of coverage

• Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP): temporary coverage for some refugees and protected persons who are not yet covered by OHIP.
• International students: many Ontario universities and colleges require students to carry a health plan. The plan name and what it covers differ by school, so check with yours.
• Workers and visitors: some people on temporary status may not qualify for OHIP. Private insurance may be needed.

Step 3: Know what OHIP does not cover

Even with OHIP, you will likely pay for:

• Most adult dental care
• Psychotherapy with private practitioners
• Physiotherapy in most cases
• Chiropractic, massage therapy and naturopathy
• Prescription drugs, unless you qualify for a public drug program or have a plan
• Eye exams for most adults 20 to 64

Step 4: Ways to lower costs

• Look for workplace benefits. If your job offers a plan, find out when you become eligible.
• Dental: the federal Canadian Dental Care Plan may help eligible residents without dental insurance. Check requirements and apply early.
• Community health centres serve newcomers and may offer care and referrals at low or no cost.
• Settlement agencies can help you find services and explain forms. Call 211 to find one near you.
• Reduced-fee clinicians. Ask providers about sliding-scale options. Many also offer care in several languages.

Step 5: Check your provider is registered

Ontario regulates health professions. Before you book, check that your provider is registered with the right college. It is free and easy. See our guide.

Step 6: Keep your records

Keep receipts and documents from your home country if they might be useful. Receipts for health costs may help you at tax time.

A note on language

You can ask clinics for a provider who speaks your language, or for an interpreter. Many do.

Where to learn more

Official government sites and settlement agencies are the best sources for current rules. Use this guide as a map, not as legal advice.

Find a verified provider in your budget. Search by city, service and price at AffordableHealth.ca. It is free for patients.

This article is general information, not legal or immigration advice. Eligibility rules differ by status and change over time. Check official government sources or speak with a settlement agency for your situation.

Prices and coverage rules are general and change over time. Confirm current fees with the provider and current coverage rules with the official source before you decide.