Quick answer
Choose visitor insurance by matching the coverage amount to the traveller's age, buying for the full length of stay, checking pre-existing condition rules, picking a sensible deductible, and buying before arrival to avoid waiting periods.
The 7-point checklist
- Coverage amount — at least $100,000 for older visitors or long stays.
- Length — cover the whole trip; extend if the stay gets longer.
- Pre-existing conditions — check stability periods (guide).
- Deductible — higher deductible, lower premium.
- Start date — buy before arrival to avoid illness waiting periods.
- Side trips — check cover for trips outside Canada.
- Refunds — know what happens if the visitor leaves early.
Why it matters
Visitors aren't covered by provincial health plans, and emergency care in Canada is billed at full cost. Accidents and sudden illness are unpredictable — insurance means the family isn't left with the bill.
Reviewed by Pankaj Bhatia, PFA, CHS · Last updated October 22, 2026