Quick answer
Most insurers will sell visitor insurance after the visitor has arrived in Canada, but they add a waiting period — commonly 48 hours, and often 7 days for sickness at older ages. Any illness that starts during the waiting period, and anything related to it later, isn't covered. Accidents are often covered from the start. The way to avoid a waiting period is to buy before arrival, or renew before the current policy expires.
How it works
| Bought… | Usual result |
|---|---|
| Before arrival, starting on arrival day | No waiting period |
| After arrival | Waiting period for sickness (often 48 hours or 7 days); accidents often covered |
| As an extension before the old policy ends | Usually no waiting period if there are no claims |
| After the old policy expired | Treated as bought after arrival — waiting period applies |
If your visitor is already here
- Buy today — every day without cover is a risk.
- Answer the medical questions carefully; anything that started before the policy isn't covered.
- Note the exact time the waiting period ends.
- For an older visitor, compare insurers — some apply shorter waiting periods than others.
Avoid it next time
- Buy before the visitor leaves home.
- Set a reminder to extend 2–3 weeks before expiry — see renewals.
Written and reviewed by Pankaj Bhatia, PFA, CHSLicensed insurance advisor (ON, BC, AB, MB, SK, NB, NS) · 11 years in financial services · Published October 29, 2026 · Last updated October 29, 2026