Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP)

The provincial government sponsors basic health care under the , paid through income taxes.

Please take a moment to read , provided by .

Eligible Foreign Nationals and eligible family members each require their own health card. This card needs to be presented every time you visit a health care professional who bills through OHIP (e.g. University Staff/Faculty Family Practice Clinic, emergency room at London Health Sciences, visit to a specialist). Your OHIP card will have your photo and an expiry date linked to your date of birth.

Applications for OHIP can be made at the Service Canada Office:

100 Dundas Street (entrance only at Talbot Street)
Hours: Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.

You can book an appointment through the .

Documentation

You must bring three pieces of valid identification that show:

  1. Valid work permit issued for longer than 6 months (if Foreign National)
  2. Proof of Ontario residency (e.g., Driver's license, bank statement, lease papers, mortgage papers)
  3. Proof of identity (e.g., passport)

The three-month "waiting period" has currently been waived during COVID-19; however, it may be re-instated at any point in time by Service Ontario.

There is a mandatory three-month "waiting period" after you have registered for OHIP before this coverage begins (with the exception of newborn babies born in Canada and living in Ontario); however, you may apply immediately upon entering Canada. For individuals who are not covered by OHIP, coverage will be provided to you and your family through The  until the end of your three-month waiting period.

Canadians returning to Canada after living abroad must reapply for OHIP coverage and will need to apply for UHIP coverage for the 3 month waiting period.

For Canadians who previously resided in another province, your previous insurance should cover you until the Ontario health coverage begins without the need to purchase additional coverage.