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FAQ – Frequently Asked Questions About Insurance

Answers to the questions we hear most, sorted by type of insurance.

Most asked questions

Does visitor insurance cover pregnancy and childbirth?

Generally, no. An ongoing pregnancy and childbirth are treated as expected care rather than an unforeseen medical emergency, and most visitor policies exclude them.

Some policies cover unforeseen complications of pregnancy, but only up to a specific stage of the pregnancy and under strict conditions. Newborn care is almost always excluded.

The rules vary widely from one policy to another, and a pregnancy already known at the time of purchase is treated as a pre-existing condition. Talk to an advisor before choosing coverage and we will confirm exactly what the policy you are considering provides.

Are pre-existing medical conditions covered?

Some visitor insurance policies may cover pre-existing medical conditions, but only if the conditions set out in the contract are met.

In general, the insurer may require the condition to be stable for a certain period before the insurance start date. The definition of “stable” can vary depending on the insurer.

If the visitor has a medical history, takes medication or has had recent changes in their health, it is important to mention this before choosing a plan.

What is Super Visa insurance?

Super Visa insurance is emergency medical insurance for parents and grandparents applying for a Super Visa to come to Canada.

It helps cover certain unexpected medical costs, including emergency care, hospitalization and repatriation. This insurance is mandatory in order to submit a Super Visa application.

What is generally covered by visitor insurance for Canada?

Coverage can vary depending on the insurer and the chosen contract, but visitor insurance for Canada can generally cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, ambulance services, medications prescribed following an emergency, certain necessary medical examinations, emergency dental care following an accident and medical repatriation.

Since protections are not identical from one insurer to another, it is important to compare the options before buying.

What types of coverage are available in travel insurance?

Travel insurance typically offers several types of coverage, including:

  • Emergency medical care: Covers medical expenses in case of illness or accident abroad
  • Trip cancellation and interruption: Reimburses non-refundable expenses if you need to cancel or cut short your trip
  • Baggage: Covers loss, theft, or damage to your luggage
  • Travel accident: Provides compensation in case of death or disability following an accident during the trip
Why do Canadians need travel insurance?
Even if you are covered by your provincial plan, medical costs outside your province or outside Canada can be very high. Travel insurance can cover medical emergencies, hospitalization, medications, emergency transport and repatriation.
What is covered if I have to cancel?
Cancellation coverage reimburses prepaid non-refundable costs (flight, accommodation, cruise) if you have to cancel for a covered reason: illness, death of a loved one, job loss, a government advisory, among others. The eligible reasons vary by plan. Read the exclusions.
How do I file a claim?
Call the assistance number on your insurance card or policy. In case of a medical emergency, call before receiving care if possible. The insurer can arrange direct billing. For non-urgent claims, gather your documents and submit the claim form within 90 days.

All topics

17 questions

Visitors to Canada

What insurance is required for a visitor visa to Canada?
What insurance is required for a Super Visa to Canada?

17 questions

Super Visa

What is Super Visa insurance?
What is the difference between visitor insurance for Canada and Super Visa insurance?

8 questions

International students

Do international students need medical insurance in Canada?
Does provincial health insurance cover international students?

10 questions

Foreign workers

Does a foreign worker need medical insurance in Canada?
When should I purchase my insurance?

18 questions

Travel insurance

What is travel insurance and why do I need it?
What types of coverage are available in travel insurance?

17 questions

Snowbirds

Why is travel insurance especially important for snowbirds?
Can my medications or medical follow-ups affect my coverage?

16 questions

Expatriates

What is the difference between expatriate insurance and travel insurance?
When should you choose expatriate insurance?

18 questions

Health and dental

Do I need to be covered by the provincial plan to purchase health and dental insurance?
In Quebec, do I also need prescription drug coverage?

13 questions

Life and mortgage insurance

What is life insurance for?
How much life insurance do I need?

11 questions

Disability

What does disability insurance cover?
How much does disability insurance pay?

10 questions

Critical illness

What is critical illness insurance?
Which illnesses are covered?

12 questions

Home and auto

Is Protecto my home insurance broker?
What is home insurance and why do I need it?

9 questions

Protecto, policies and claims

Is Protecto an insurance company?
Are your advisors registered with the AMF?

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