Work permit holders in Ontario may qualify for healthcare coverage under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP), depending on their residency and employment status. Here’s what you need to know about eligibility, covered services, and the application process.
Who Can Apply for OHIP on a Work Permit?
To be eligible for OHIP, work permit holders must meet the following residency criteria:
- Be physically present in Ontario for at least 153 days within any 12-month period.
- Be present in Ontario for at least 153 of the first 183 days after settling in the province.
- Have their primary residence in Ontario.
Additionally, applicants must fulfill at least one of these conditions:
- Hold a valid work permit and have worked full-time for an Ontario employer for a minimum of six months (spouses and dependents may also qualify).
- Participate in programs such as the Live-In Caregiver Program or the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program.
- Have submitted an application for permanent residence (PR) to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), with confirmation of eligibility.
Even if a work permit has expired, applicants may still qualify if they’ve applied for an extension or a new permit before the expiration date.
What Does OHIP Cover?
OHIP provides a wide range of medical services, including:
- Visits to family doctors and walk-in clinics.
- Emergency room care.
- Medical tests and procedures.
- Surgeries.
The good news is there’s no waiting period for eligible applicants—coverage begins immediately upon approval.
How to Apply for OHIP
Applications must be submitted in person at a ServiceOntario center. You’ll need the following documents:
- Completed Application Form: The Registration for Ontario Health Insurance Coverage form.
- Proof of Immigration Status: A valid work permit or Verification of Status (IMM 5716 or IMM 5715).
- Proof of Residency: An original document confirming you live in Ontario.
- Proof of Identity: Such as an Ontario driver’s license or another government-issued ID.
Each document must meet specific criteria, and one document cannot serve multiple purposes.
Final Steps
After applying, you’ll receive a health card, which must be presented when accessing healthcare services covered under OHIP. Use the ServiceOntario locator tool to find the nearest office that processes health card applications and confirm their services in advance.
Ensure all your documents are in order before heading to ServiceOntario to make the process as smooth as possible.