Can Work Permit Holders in Ontario Get Health Coverage?

If you're working in Ontario on a valid work permit, you might qualify for provincial healthcare coverage under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). This plan provides essential medical services, including doctor appointments, emergency visits, and surgeries. Below is everything you need to know about OHIP eligibility, what it covers, and how to apply as a work permit holder.

Eligibility for OHIP as a Work Permit Holder

To qualify for OHIP, work permit holders must meet specific criteria. Here's what you need to know:

1. General Residency Requirements:
• Be physically present in Ontario for at least 153 days in any 12-month period.
• Be in Ontario for 153 days within the first 183 days of living in the province.
• Maintain your primary residence in Ontario.
  
  
2. Work Permit-Specific Conditions:
• You hold a valid work permit and are employed full-time by an Ontario employer for at least six months.
• In this case, your spouse and dependents may also qualify for OHIP.
• You are in Ontario on a valid work permit under the Live-In Caregiver Program or Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program.
• You’ve applied for permanent residence (PR) with IRCC, and your application has been received and deemed eligible.
  
  
3. Expired Work Permits:
• If your work permit has expired but you’ve applied for a new one or an extension before the expiration date, you may still be eligible under maintained status.
  
  
4. No Waiting Period:
• Ontario has removed the waiting period for healthcare coverage. Once approved, you can access OHIP benefits immediately.
  
  

How to Apply for OHIP

To apply for OHIP, you’ll need to visit a Service Ontario center in person with the required documents. Here's a step-by-step guide:

1. Find a Service Ontario Location:
   Use the Service Ontario locator tool to find an office near you. Confirm whether the office processes health card applications for work permit holders before visiting.
   
   
2. Prepare the Necessary Documents:
   You’ll need the following:
• A completed Ontario Health Insurance Coverage form.
• An original document proving your OHIP-eligible immigration status, such as:
• A valid work permit, or
• Verification of Status (IMM 5716 or IMM 5715) and proof of full-time employment (e.g., an employment letter on company letterhead).
• An original document proving your residency in Ontario, such as:
• Driver’s license, utility bill, bank statement, or rental agreement.
• An original document proving your identity, such as:
• Passport, PR card, or employee ID.

Note: A single document cannot fulfill multiple requirements.

3. Receive Your Health Card:
   Once approved, you’ll receive an Ontario health card, which you must present whenever you access healthcare services.
   
   

What Does OHIP Cover?

OHIP provides coverage for a range of medical services, but some services are only partially covered, while others are excluded entirely.

How to Maximize OHIP Coverage

OHIP offers comprehensive healthcare for eligible work permit holders, but it’s important to know its limitations. For uncovered services like prescription medications or routine dental care, consider purchasing private health insurance for additional coverage.

By meeting the eligibility criteria and applying with the right documents, work permit holders in Ontario can access essential medical services and enjoy peace of mind. For detailed guidance, visit the official Service Ontario website or consult with an immigration professional.