Canada has always encouraged family reunification and makes every effort, such as offering visa programs to allow people to reunite as a family and settle in Canada. However, understanding the Canadian health-care system is critical. This blog aims to educate newcomers on the differences between Super Visa insurance and provincial health plans, as well as provide information on the Super Visa insurance cost, to help them make informed health decisions.
When your parents or grandparents apply for a super visa, you can purchase super visa insurance, which is a type of travel medical insurance plan. This type of insurance covers unexpected medical and dental costs that family members (with super visas) may incur while in Canada. The average super visa insurance cost for one person visiting Canada for a year is between $100 and $200 per month, but this varies greatly.
Provincial health plans, on the other hand, are a component of the Canadian public health care system, providing coverage for medically necessary services such as hospitals and physician care to eligible residents living in all 13 provinces or territories. The federal government also provides per capita funding to each province and territory.
The main differences between them are
Eligibility:
- Super Visa: The Super Visa is intended for parents and grandparents who are either Canadian citizens or permanent residents. This allows them to visit their family in Canada for a longer period, typically two years without having to renew their visa.
- Provincial Health Plans: Individuals who have become permanent residents or residents of a specific province or territory in Canada are eligible for the Provincial Health Plan. Residents have access to hospitals, doctors, and other necessary medical services, as well as continuous healthcare coverage. Visitors and tourists are prohibited. To receive free health care in most states and territories, residents must be physically present for at least 183 days. If you leave your home for an extended period, you must also provide proof of your return.
Insurance Requirement:
- Super Visa: Supervisa applicants must have private medical insurance with a Canadian insurer that covers at least $100,000 in medical expenses and is valid for at least one year.
- Provincial Health Plans: Although permanent residents and residents are eligible for provincial health care, there may be a waiting period for some services. However, if you move to another province or territory, your health insurance in Canada may continue to cover you for the minimum waiting period imposed in your new place of residence. When this period expires, your new province or territory takes over your healthcare coverage.
Coverage Scope:
Super Visa:
Designed primarily for medical emergencies, Super Visa insurance covers expenses related to unexpected illness or accidents while traveling, such as hospital stays, surgeries, and prescription drugs, sometimes it also covers pre-existing medical conditions.
Most super visa insurance policies exclude regular doctor visits, Pre-planned vision or dental care such as cosmetic surgery.
Provincial Health Plans:
Provides comprehensive coverage for a wide range of medical services, including diagnosis and testing. Routine doctor and hospital visits, permanent hospital stays, including care, food, and prescriptions, surgeries and procedures, and medical needs. Eye examinations for people under the age of 18 and over the age of 65
Exclusions may vary because each province and territory has its own rules regarding what is covered by health insurance. Depending on where you live, you may need to obtain private health insurance to obtain coverage for the following services and treatments. EMT and ambulance services, dental treatment, massage treatment, medical equipment like a wheelchair, prescription medications for outpatients, physiotherapy, stays in a private hospital room, eyeglasses with a prescription, and psychological assistance
Cost:
- Super Visa: Super Visa insurance costs vary according to age, health & medical history, policy length, deductible, and coverage limits. Individuals share financial responsibility for this privately purchased insurance. It ranges from $1,110 to 2,713 for people aged 55-75.
- Provincial Health Plans: It is publically financed and funded by taxpayers and provides coverage to residents without direct out-of-pocket payments for the most basic health care.
Duration of Coverage:
- Super Visa: In general, Super Visa Insurance provides coverage for the duration of the visit, up to a maximum of two years. If the individual intends to stay longer, they may need to renew or extend their stay.
- Provincial Health Plans: Once eligible, residents can continue to receive coverage as long as they are permanent county residents or citizens.
Applicability for Permanent Residency:
- Super Visa: This is a temporary visa for long-term family visits, not permanent residence.
- Provincial Health Plans: This scheme, which is available upon obtaining permanent resident status, provides access to ongoing health care.
Comprehensive vs. Emergency Coverage:
- Super Visa: This type of visa provides coverage with a focus on medical emergencies and serves as a safety net for unexpected health issues during visits.
- Provincial Health Plan: To provide comprehensive coverage for both emergency and non-emergency health care needs for long-term Canadian residents.
In conclusion
Understanding these differences, as well as the super visa insurance cost, is essential for newcomers planning a trip to Canada. Individuals who make informed decisions can access appropriate health care on time, regardless of whether they choose Super Visa insurance or a regional health plan. Health care in Canada is responsible for creating a healthy and inclusive society by contributing to this rich, diverse mosaic.
Related Blogs –
Factors Affecting the Cost of Super Visa Insurance: What You Need to Know
Tips to Save on Super Visa Insurance Costs Without Compromising Coverage
