Health Insurance for International Students

The International Student and Visitor Services cares about your health and wellness. Medical expenses in Canada can be very high, making health insurance essential for all international students. When you arrive, you will need to be covered by either the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or the University of Alberta Health Insurance Plan (UAHIP). Additional supplementary coverage is also available through student associations.

 Preparation Before You Arrive

  • Bring Medical Records. If you have an existing medical condition or detailed medical history, bring an English copy of your medical records.
  • Bring an adequate supply of any prescription medication you take.
  • See a Canadian doctor when you arrive to obtain a prescription, or, if the same medication is not available in Canada, get a prescription for an alternative.
  • Bring an extra pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses, along with a copy of your prescription.

We recommend that you purchase travel health insurance to cover your journey to Canada. Canadian insurance begins only once you arrive and begin your studies.


Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)

If you are over 18 years of age, have a study permit valid for at least 12 months, and are committed to being physically present in Alberta for at least 183 days in 12 months, Apply for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)

AHCIP Covers basic services such as doctor visits, lab tests, and hospital stays. It does not cover dental care, eyeglasses, and prescription medication. It is free for international students. Read AHCIP frequently asked questions

How to apply


University of Alberta Health Insurance Plan (UAHIP)

If you are less than 18 years of age and are not eligible for provincial health coverage, apply for the University of Alberta Health Insurance Plan UAHIP. 

Exchange and visiting students attending U of A for six weeks or more are automatically enrolled in the UAHIP. It covers basic medical expenses during studies. 

uab.ca/uahip

Supplementary Health and Dental Plan

  • Covers additional services not included in AHCIP or UAHIP, such as dental, vision, and medications, visits to physiotherapists, chiropractors, and more. 
  • This plan is provided through;
  • Eligible students may opt out if they have alternate coverage
  • Exchange students are not eligible for this coverage as they are not assessed membership fees for these associations, and an opt-in is not possible. 

Your Student Health & Dental Plan does not replace basic medical coverage, such as the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) or the University of Alberta Health Insurance Plan (UAHIP).

Read frequently asked questions


Expired Study Permit: Temporary Health Coverage Options

  • AHCIP does not provide coverage if your study permit has expired.
  • You can enroll in the U of A Health Insurance Plan (UAHIP) while waiting for your new study permit.
  • Once your new study permit is issued, you can renew your AHCIP coverage.

Study Permit Expiring Soon: Impact on Health Insurance

  • Immediately apply for a study permit extension.
  • Notify the AHCIP office about your application.
  • You might qualify for a temporary health insurance extension.
  • Once you receive your new study permit, take it to the nearest registry to renew your AHCIP coverage.

Frequently Asked Questions

Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)

How can I apply for AHCIP

Complete and save the application form. Gather the following supporting documents:

  • Proof of Alberta residency, such as utilities or phone bill, and a rental/lease agreement. Students living in residence should request a proof of address document from residence services.
  • Identity, such as a passport
  • Legal entitlement to be in Canada, such as your study permit

Submit the application and your original documents to a participating registry in person. There is no charge for this service.

We recommend that you apply in person. You can also submit your application by mail. Learn more here

When should I apply?

You must apply within 90 days of your arrival to be covered by the Plan. The effective date of coverage is retroactive to the first day you arrived in Alberta from outside Canada.

When can I expect to get my AHCIP card?

Processing time could take up to five days and up to six weeks if you submit your application by mail. Your card is sent to the address you provided on the application form. 

Once you receive your card, please check your full name and date of birth. Contact the AHCIP office if there are any mistakes on your card or if you have any questions.

The expiry date for your health coverage is the same as your current study permit.

If you need to access healthcare before your card arrives, you will still be covered. Although you may be required to pay for services upfront, there will be a reimbursement process that you can access.

When does my Alberta Health Care Coverage start?
As a full-time student, you are eligible for coverage as soon as you arrive in Alberta. However, you cannot make use of the coverage until you apply for your AHC card. Do this as soon as possible, once you arrive in the province.
I am moving to Alberta from another Canadian province. Am I eligible for AHCIP?
Yes, you need to apply for AHCIP once you arrive in Alberta. Students from another Canadian province with provincial health insurance are expected to be covered for their first three months by that province's health insurance.
I lost my Alberta Health Care card. What should I do?
You need to contact the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan office and request a replacement card.
How can I book a COVID vaccine appointment if I don’t have an AHCIP card?
Call Alberta Health Services by dialing 811. Explain your situation, and the agent will book a vaccination appointment for you.

Supplementary Health and Dental Plan

How much does it cost, and how do I enroll in the Plan?

Students who register full-time in the respective term are automatically assessed for Supplementary Health and Dental Fees.

Can I opt out of this Plan?

If you already have equivalent health or dental coverage from another plan, you may opt out of this Plan. Deadlines for opting out can be found on:

How do I submit an insurance claim?
  • Undergraduate students: complete the claim form and submit it to the insurance company.
  • Graduate students: complete the claim form and submit it to the insurance company.

You can also download the Studentcare App to file a claim.

I have a spouse and 2 children. Can I enrol them in the Supplementary Health and Dental Plan?
Yes, you can extend your coverage to your family (spouse and/or dependants) by enrolling them in the Plan and paying an additional fee over and above your individual fee as a Plan member. Common law and same-sex couples are eligible. Here's more detailed information: Couple and Family Enrolment section for undergraduate students and Couple and Family Enrolment section for graduate students.

General Information

Do I need to carry my health care card with me all the time?
It is highly recommended to carry your card with you all the time. If you need to receive emergency medical care at an Alberta Health Services hospital, it is important to present your valid health care insurance card upon arrival. If you do not have your health care card, you will have to pay up to $1000 at the start of your visit. Be sure to check your card each term to ensure that it has not expired, and always carry it with you.
I'm sick. Do I need to go to the hospital to see the doctor?
If you have an emergency, please call 911 or go to the emergency department in hospitals. But if it's non-emergency, you can:
  • Visit the University Health Centre, located on the 2nd floor in SUB (Student's Union Building). Or
  • Visit any walk-in clinic to see a doctor. Or
  • Contact your family physician.
Read more on what to do if you feel unwell.
I'm not feeling well. It's not an emergency, and all of the clinics are closed. What should I do?
You can call Health Link at 811 for advice. It's available 24/7 and is available in more than 240 languages.