Should I get a private health insurance before I land in Canada as a new permanent resident?

[MapleVivi]

Hello,
I applied for a PR from outside of Canada, and now I am planning to land in Canada soon.
Can somebody tell me when I'll be eligible for the BC's health insurance? Should I get a private health insurance before I land in Canada? How do new permanent residents go about it?

Thank you in advance!

 

[canuck78]

Hello,
I applied for a PR from outside of Canada, and now I am planning to land in Canada soon.
Can somebody tell me when I'll be eligible for the BC's health insurance? Should I get a private health insurance before I land in Canada? How do new permanent residents go about it?

Thank you in advance!

Yes you should take out private emergency insurance for up to the first 3 months. Any routine care would be out of pocket but would cover large unexpected expense.

 

[MapleVivi]

Yes you should take out private emergency insurance for up to the first 3 months. Any routine care would be out of pocket but would cover large unexpected expense.

Thanks so much for your answer!

 

[maycanada]

@MapleVivi: did you purchase insurance, if so which one ? looking for insurance recommendations.

 

[CanGoldDigger]

If you are new to Canada, apply for MSP as soon as you arrive. Your coverage may start three months after your arrival date in British Columbia. You should get private health care insurance while you wait.

https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/health-drug-coverage/msp/bc-residents/eligibility-and-enrolment/how-to-enrol

 

[ramz]

For BC's health insurance, you'll usually have a 3-month waiting period before it kicks in, starting from the month you arrive. It's definitely a good idea to get private health insurance to cover you during that gap. I did the same when I moved, and it gave me peace of mind.