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HelloSafe » Travel Insurance

Best travel insurance in Canada for 2024

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Travel, whether for leisure, business, or work, has become integral to our modern lives. While it opens doors to diverse experiences, travel insurance is crucial in providing peace of mind against unforeseen expenses like medical emergencies and trip disruptions, particularly during unpredictable events.

But choosing the right travel insurance can be a challenge and demands careful consideration of factors like coverage, individual needs, exceptions, and more. We've got you covered.

In this guide, we take you through everything from coverage types and costs to the best plans and how to find cheap travel insurance. You can use our comparator at the top of this page to compare plans, get free quotes , and find a policy that truly fits your needs.

Top 10 travel insurance Canada plans

• soNomad travel insurance: Straightforward and affordable
• Allianz travel insurance: Affordable Plans Starting At $27
• Tugo travel insurance: Tailored solutions
• Destination travel insurance: Specialized coverage
• Manulife travel insurance: Flexible policies
• Blue Cross Travel Insurance Canada: Flexible plans for every need
• CAA travel insurance: Best for CAA members
• RBC travel insurance: Coverage from a reputed bank
• TD travel insurance: High coverage limits
• BCAA travel insurance: Budget-friendly options

Before we explore the best plans in the market, let's look at the basics of this coverage first.

What is travel insurance?

Travel insurance is a policy that protects your investment in a trip. It reimburses for financial losses of a canceled or interrupted trip, as well as emergency medical care during travel, emergency evacuation, damage to a rental car, lost luggage, and more. The medical care component is critical in a country like Canada. Out-of-province care costs more and offers less than in patients' home province.

It takes different forms. You can purchase it as an individual policy or as an add-on to a travel purchase like a flight. It may even be included as a credit card benefit when you use yours to make a travel purchase.

What is international travel insurance?

International travel insurance is a subset of travel insurance, specifically tailored for trips abroad, while the latter can cover domestic and international trips. The key difference is that international coverage is designed to address the unique challenges and risks associated with international journeys, such as medical emergencies, visa issues, and currency exchange, in addition to covering the same aspects as standard travel coverage, like trip cancellations and lost baggage.

How does travel insurance work?

Here's how it typically works:

• Purchase a Policy: Before your trip, you buy a policy, specifying the coverage, trip duration, and other relevant details.
• Traveling: During your trip, if you encounter covered events like medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost baggage, or other unexpected issues, you can contact your insurance provider or its 24/7 assistance line.
• Claim Submission: Submit a claim with the required documentation, such as medical bills or receipts for lost items, to your insurer for reimbursement.
• Reimbursement: If your claim is approved, the insurance provider reimburses you for eligible expenses, helping you manage unexpected costs and disruptions during your travels.

What does travel insurance cover?

What is covered depends on the insurer and the level of coverage you choose. It commonly covers emergency medical care, trip cancellation, trip interruption, and lost or damaged baggage.

Travel insurance is customized based on the needs of your specific trip. A basic plan covering just flight cancellation may be fine if you already have supplemental individual medical coverage and are traveling within Canada. On the other hand, if you are planning a ski trip to the French Alps, a comprehensive plan with emergency medical care and evacuation back home could help set your mind at ease if you experience a bad fall on the slopes.

Manulife’s CoverMe is one of the most popular providers in Canada, and here is what their Single Trip All-inclusive plan offers:

What does it not cover?

Common exclusions typically include:

• Pre-existing Medical Conditions: Coverage may not extend to pre-existing medical conditions without a specific waiver or rider.
• High-Risk Activities: Activities like extreme sports or dangerous hobbies may require additional coverage or be excluded.
• Traveling Against Advisories: Trips to countries under travel advisories or travel restrictions may not be covered, depending on the policy.

What are the different types of travel insurance?

The most common categories are:

• Baggage insurance - Did you make it to that Caribbean island or European capital, but your luggage did not? It does not have to ruin your trip. This insurance will give you some spending money to get essentials due to a delay or replace it in case it is lost.
• Emergency medical insurance - You cannot put a price on your health. This protects you if you get injured or sick while away.
• Trip cancellation - Have an emergency back home before your trip? If you are unable to travel, this coverage will reimburse what you spent on nonrefundable travel.
• Trip interruption - Miss a connection flight? Maybe you need to return home early? That is okay, you are covered. This is similar to trip cancellation insurance but covers you during a trip rather than before it.
• All-inclusive policies - Want to be prepared for anything? These policies include all of the above insurance types.

Finally, consider how much you will be traveling in the year. Single-trip and annual coverage options exist. Annual plans may save you money if you intend to travel two or more times per year.

What is travel medical insurance?

Travel medical insurance provides coverage for medical emergencies during your trip, including doctor's visits, hospitalization, and emergency medical evacuation. It is a subset of travel insurance, which covers a wider range of risks such as trip cancellations, lost baggage, and non-medical aspects of travel. You can often purchase stand-alone medical coverage if you primarily need health-related coverage for your trip.

How much is travel insurance?

A basic plan for a 30-year-old single traveler could be as little as $26 for a week, while a comprehensive plan could cost that same traveler $125.

How much travel insurance costs depends on the length of your trip, the destination, the desired coverage, and your age. We recommend plans that include emergency medical coverage.

How much is travel insurance in Canada?

On average, a basic single-trip policy for a one-week trip may cost around $25 to $50 CAD for an individual, while an annual multi-trip policy can range from $100 to $300 CAD. More comprehensive coverage or longer trips can increase the cost. Seniors and individuals with pre-existing conditions may pay higher premiums.

It's essential to compare quotes from different providers to find a policy that suits your needs and budget. Try our comparison tool below to get free personalized travel insurance quotes for your upcoming trip. Compare rates, explore options, and find the best policy for you in just seconds.

Prepare for your trip Compare. Choose. Save.

What does travel insurance for seniors cover?

Travel insurance for seniors offers increased medical coverage over other plans and coverage for stable pre-existing conditions. It works like any other emergency medical insurance plan but is adapted to the needs of senior travelers.

Leading plans medical travel insurance for seniors Canada plans offer:

You can use our comparator at the top of this page to find the best Canadian travel insurance for seniors based on their unique needs. It only takes a few steps and you have free quotes in seconds.

How much is travel insurance for Canadian seniors?

The cost of travel insurance for Canadian seniors can vary based on factors like age, health, destination, and trip duration. On average, a comprehensive single-trip policy for a senior traveler may range from $50 to $200 or more, while an annual multi-trip plan could cost approximately $300 to $1,000 or higher, depending on coverage limits and individual circumstances. Pre-existing conditions may also alter the coverage you can access.

What is the best travel insurance for visitors to Canada?

Leading Canadian travel insurance companies offer medical travel insurance to visitors. These can be perfect for non-residents in the country on vacation, business, or visiting family. These plans can be a lifeline for people living in Canada who have not yet qualified for public healthcare.

The best travel insurance for visitors to Canada depends on the traveler’s needs. Additionally, plans may be available to them from their home country.

Is it mandatory to have travel insurance to visit Canada?

No, you do not need private travel coverage to visit Canada. It is not mandatory for all visitors to Canada, but it is highly recommended. Canada's public healthcare system does not cover visitors, and some provinces may require health insurance for entry. Having travel coverage provides financial protection and peace of mind for medical emergencies and unexpected events. Policies and requirements can change, so check with Canadian authorities for the latest information.

Good to know

If you are sponsoring a parent or grandparent to visit you in Canada, did you know that you are required to purchase super visa insurance? Learn more and compare the best super visa insurance plan in Canada in our super visa guide .

How to get the cheapest travel insurance Canada plans?

So how to get travel insurance? Most importantly, how to get the most affordable plans? Follow these 5 steps to get the best deals.

• Compare Multiple Quotes: Obtain quotes from various insurance providers to find the best price for your desired coverage.
• Choose Essential Coverage: Select coverage that matches your specific travel needs, avoiding unnecessary add-ons.
• Consider Annual Policies: If you travel frequently, annual policies often offer more value than single-trip coverage.
• Review Deductibles: Higher deductibles can lower your premium, but be prepared to pay more in case of a claim.
• Utilize Membership Discounts: Check if your memberships or affiliations offer discounted coverage options.

While finding the cheapest travel insurance Canada plan or to other regions may seem like a daunting process, we've got you covered. You can simply use our free comparator below to compare plans, and coverage, check on discounts, and get free quotes in no time.

When should I buy travel insurance?

Travel insurance can be purchased anytime between booking and departure, but we recommend buying a plan at the same time that you book your trip.

Booking as soon as possible ensures greater protection. The ideal time to purchase is right after making your initial trip payment, typically within 10-21 days. Buying it early allows you to access coverage for pre-existing medical conditions and other benefits . You can often obtain last-minute insurance up to the day before departure, but some coverages may be limited.

But when is it too late to buy travel insurance? Once you've begun your trip or used any part of it, you generally cannot purchase coverage for trip cancellations or interruptions. However, annual multi-trip policies can be purchased at any time, with coverage beginning from the policy's start date.

What are the best travel insurance plans in 2024?

Please note that the specific coverage, terms, and pricing may vary based on individual circumstances and plan options. It's essential to review the policies in detail and obtain personalized quotes to make an informed decision for your needs. You can do that using our comparator below. Compare multiple plans and get free quotes in no time right here.

Other popular companies include the following :

You can find more on these options by clicking on them:

• AMA travel insurance
• CIBC travel insurance
• Costco travel insurance Canada
• BMO travel insurance (also includes BMO World Elite Mastercard travel insurance)
• Medipac travel insurance
• Medoc travel insurance
• World nomads travel insurance
• Scotiabank travel insurance

What are the FAQs on travel insurance Canada plans?

How does credit card travel insurance work.

Travel coverage is a benefit on many credit cards. It is worth checking what your card includes before purchasing a separate policy. You may already have sufficient coverage.

Credit cards with travel insurance usually only cover expenses purchased on that card. Buy your plane tickets on one card, but the hotel on another? The first company will not reimburse you for a hotel issue. Additionally, terms and exclusions may be more restrictive than a standalone plane. Credit card travel insurance is a wonderful benefit, but weigh whether its coverage is sufficient for you and your trip.

The best travel insurance credit cards have offerings like this:

Does travel insurance cover COVID-19?

Many plans now specifically cover COVID-19 cancellation and medical expenses or offer stand-alone COVID travel insurance. They may reimburse costs incurred from a mandatory quarantine, COVID-19 medical expenses, and trip interruption and cancellation . Some specific COVID plans only cover COVID-19 expenses and do not automatically include coverage for other medical needs.

It is worth verifying details carefully before deciding on a Covid-19 travel insurance policy. Covid-19 coverage and news change frequently, so check with your service providers for the latest information.

There are a few important points to consider:

• Coverage may be explicitly excluded in your policy if the destination countries or regions are under an “avoid non-essential travel” or “avoid all travel” advisory at the time of purchase.
• Your Covid-19 vaccination status may affect your coverage. If you are unvaccinated by choice, your insurer may declare your claims ineligible.

Do I need private health care coverage when travelling outside Canada?

Yes, we always recommend travel medical insurance when travelling abroad. Healthcare prices and standards can be very different while travelling. Some public provincial plans offer some coverage, but it may be insufficient. Your provincial plan covers may only pay what the cost would be back at home, not the actual price at your destination. Even then, you likely have to pay out-of-pocket and request reimbursement later. 

In some countries, healthcare facilities may request payment upfront. They may refuse treatment if you are unable to pay. This alone makes emergency medical insurance extremely valuable.

Do I need travel insurance to USA from Canada?

Getting a private travel protection plan is highly recommended when travelling from Canada to the USA, as it provides essential medical coverage. Medical expenses in the USA can be exorbitant, and without insurance, a simple hospital visit can lead to substantial bills, potentially running into thousands of dollars.

For example, a basic emergency room visit for minor treatment might cost around $1,000 to $2,000 , while more serious medical procedures or surgeries can lead to bills that range from $10,000 to tens of thousands of dollars, or even more for complex surgeries or prolonged hospital stays.

Do I need travel insurance within Canada?

We recommend getting medical travel insurance Canada plans while traveling within the country. Specific plans are available for domestic travelers. While Canadian citizens and residents are guaranteed basic emergency care by the Canada Health Act, this does not include prescription drugs and ambulance services. Your OHIP coverage from Ontario will not cover you for a private hospital, laboratory, or paramedic services while visiting British Columbia.

Additionally, payment for medical services may be required upfront, leaving you responsible for seeking reimbursement from your home province upon your return. Canadian residents traveling within Canada may qualify for a discount on their medical travel insurance.

When traveling outside of your province or territory without adequate coverage, you assume risk. Note that you may already have sufficient coverage if you have a supplemental individual or group private health insurance policy.

Want to protect yourself while traveling in Canada? Compare the best travel insurance medical plans anonymously today using our comparator at the top of this page.

What does travel insurance for snowbirds cover?

Travel medical insurance for snowbirds commonly covers the following medical expenses:

• Medical treatments
• Prescription medications
• Paramedics and ambulance rides
• Repatriation to Canada
• Emergency dental care

Snowbird insurance policies do not usually cover elective treatments. Those should wait until you have returned to Canada.

But who are Snowbirds? Snowbirds are people who travel to warmer climates during the cold Canadian winter. They are usually retirees. Therefore, getting adequate protection for their travels is particularly important for these groups. Many of them go to warm parts of the United States, the country with the world’s highest medical care costs.

Snowbirds may be more at risk for a medical emergency while away due to the length of their trips and underlying health conditions.

To learn more, see our guide to snowbird travel insurance.

How do I buy travel insurance online?

The easiest way to purchase a travel plan is by using an online comparison tool like ours. See rates and coverage options quickly without giving up personal data. Alternatively, you may purchase it through an agent, a broker, your private individual or group health insurer, or a travel credit card.

How much travel insurance do I need?

The amount of coverage you need depends on various factors, including the destination, duration, and activities of your trip. As a general guideline, consider coverage for emergency medical expenses, trip cancellations, and lost baggage.

Aim for a coverage amount that provides financial protection for potential unexpected costs while keeping your budget and specific travel plans in mind. It's essential to balance adequate protection with affordability.

What is the best travel insurance for cancer patients?

The best protection plan for cancer patients depends on individual circumstances, including the stage of cancer and current health. It's advisable to look for insurance providers that specialize in covering pre-existing medical conditions, offer comprehensive coverage, and have experience handling cancer-related claims.

Companies like Allianz and IMG Global among others often provide options for travelers with pre-existing conditions, including cancer*. However, it's essential for cancer patients to compare policies, disclose their medical history accurately, and consider consulting their healthcare providers when selecting the most suitable coverage.

Does travel insurance cover cruises?

Yes, travel coverage plans frequently cover cruises. When shopping for a plan, be sure to verify that yours offers cruise coverage. To give an example, RBC offers two popular examples, their Deluxe and TravelCare (for seniors) packages.

They cover:

• Cruise cancellation or interruption due to mechanical failure or weather
• Catch-up costs for a missed departure due to a canceled flight
• Unused shore excursion tickets (due to illness or injury)
• Last-minute cancellations due to a covered reason
• Lost luggage, passports, and medications
• Eligible emergency medical expenses
• 24-hour worldwide emergency medical and travel assistance
• Repatriation costs

See our guides on travel insurance in Canada:

• Is soNomad insurance best for you? Review 2024
• Is Red Cross Travel Insurance Good in 2024?
• Best Travel Insurance South Africa Plans 2024
• Expat Travel Insurance: A Complete Guide (2024)
• What is the best Travel Insurance Hong Kong for 2024?
• What is Canada's best travel health insurance (2024)?
• What are the Best Travel Insurance BC Plans in 2024?
• Best Travel Insurance Dubai Plans for Canadians (2024)
• What is the best group travel insurance in 2024?
• Best Travel Insurance for Backpackers 2024
• Travel Insurance UK: Complete Guide (2024)
• Annual Travel Insurance Canada: Full Guide 2024
• Travel Insurance for Schengen Visa: 2024 Guide
• How does Multi Trip Travel Insurance work? Full guide 2024
• How does student travel insurance work? A full guide 2024
• Is CoverMe Travel Insurance worth it? Review 2024
• Is Air Canada travel insurance worth it? 2024 Review
• Is Cooperators Travel Insurance worth it? Review 2024
• How to get the best European travel insurance in 2024?
• Is Sun Life Travel Insurance the best in 2024? Review
• Is Canada Life Travel Insurance worth it? Review 2024
• How to get travel insurance for visitors to Canada in 2024?
• Is TuGo Travel Insurance right for you? Review 2024
• Is World Nomads travel insurance the best in 2024?
• Is Green Shield travel insurance the best in 2024?
• Is RIMI travel insurance the best in 2024?
• Is MEDOC Travel Insurance the best in 2024?
• Is Travel Guardian insurance the best in 2024?
• Is Costco Travel Insurance worth it? Review 2024
• Is WestJet Travel Insurance the Best in 2024?
• How to get the best travel Insurance for seniors in 2024?
• Is Blue Cross Travel Insurance in Canada worth it? 2024 Review
• How does trip cancellation insurance work in Canada in 2024?
• Should you buy travel insurance to the USA?
• Is RBC travel insurance the best in 2024?
• Is AIG Travel Insurance Canada Good? Review 2024
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• [Survey] Only 25% of Canadians plan to go on holiday this summer
• [Survey] Only 29% of Ontarians plan to go on holiday this summer
• What is the best Covid travel insurance in Canada for 2024?
• [Travel] Covid travel insurance still mandatory in 41 countries across the world this summer
• What's the best Super Visa insurance in Canada for 2024?
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Alexandre Desoutter has been working as editor-in-chief and head of press relations at HelloSafe since June 2020. A graduate of Sciences Po Grenoble, he worked as a journalist for several years in French media, and continues to collaborate as a as a contributor to several publications.

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I have had BCAA travel insurance in the past and nothing has changed regarding my medical needs. Am I able to apply for insurance without having to go through all the questions again?

Hi Marylou, Thank you for reaching out to us. You should be able to renew your policy without having to go through the whole process again. Here is a link to help you with the same. https://www.bcaa.com/Apps/Travel/FullTravelMedical/Renewal Please feel free to reach out to us if you have any further doubts. Thank you!

I am wanting a quote for travel/medical insurance

Hi Patricia, You can use the comparator tool at the top of the page to find the perfect insurance policy for you. You can then contact the company of your choice directly to get a quote.

Have a nice day, The HelloSafe team

If we go to Portugal for one week and France for another, do we buy separate insurance?

Hi Julie, It depends. Some insurances contracts cover any trips in a given period, while others are meant to cover a specific destination. You can use the comparison tool at the top of the page to find the perfect contract for you and ask for a quote.

Hello, how are you? Does travel insuance covering breast biospys overseas?

Hi Nour, Each travel insurance covers different medical services. Please contact the insurer of your choice for more detail about a potential contract.

Does anybody ever answer the phone at caa Ins. Tried several times and waited half hr or more with no response. I am member but find this very irritating.

Hi Brian, We are not related to CAA Insurance and therefore we cannot help you.

By Lisa Jackson

Best travel insurance in Canada

Day Of Victory Studio / Shutterstock

You’ve packed your bags, mapped your itinerary, and set your “out of office” message – it’s vacation time! But what about travel insurance?

According to a 2019 study by the Travel Health Insurance Association of Canada, 13% of Canadians aren’t sure if they have travel insurance before they go on vacation. Of those who have bought insurance, 17% don’t know what their policy covers.

As a professional travel writer, I find this rather alarming. Canadian health insurance is not valid outside Canada, and your provincial or territorial health plan may not cover all the costs even if you’re travelling domestically. If you suffer an accident or get sick abroad, unexpected medical bills can bankrupt you. It’s why the Canadian government  advises all travellers to buy travel insurance , and I never leave the country without it. Whether you’re taking a two-week trip or a gap year abroad, every one needs the best travel insurance in Canada, regardless of age, health status, destination, or length of vacation.

Best for thrill seekers: World Nomads

Designed for adrenaline lovers with wanderlust, World Nomads insures a long list of adventure sports, activities and volunteer/work experiences, as well as sporting equipment delay/loss/theft. You also get access to a 24/7 hotline that provides information that adventure travellers may need: weather reports and travel advisories, assistance locating the nearest trail, and finding a gear shop.

The standard policy covers emergency medical expenses up to $5 million, emergency dental, trip cancellation/interruption/delay, baggage delays/theft/damage, and more. The downside: you must be under 66 years of age to qualify.

Best for families: CAA Travel Insurance

A long-trusted Canadian institution, CAA travel Insurance offers flexible travel plans to suit every type of traveller and vacation, but their policies are particularly great for families. Their stand-alone emergency medical policy of up to $5 million in health coverage is extremely comprehensive, even including medical repatriation, emergency dental, and reimbursements for pet care and kenneling.

The Vacation Package Plan provides full cancellation/interruption insurance – ideal for prepaid, all-inclusive vacation packages – as well as family transportation and escort of children during emergencies. Anyone can buy CAA travel insurance, but members get a 10% discount.

CAA’s emergency medical plans also now include coverage for COVID-19-related illnesses for vaccinated customers. Coverage is up to $2.5 million if partially vaccinated and up to $5 million if fully vaccinated.

Best for seniors and retirees: Blue Cross

Blue Cross has been around for more than 70 years, and 1 in 4 Canadians utilize its travel insurance. Blue Cross’s emergency medical covers up to $5 million. It has special “snowbird” travel insurance packages designed for Canadians who head to warmer climates each year, making Blue Cross ideal for retirees.

Part of the package is the recently launched Serenity Service. This free perk provides a range of benefits if your flight is delayed, including access to an airport lounge or even a hotel room (depending on the length of the delay). Pre-existing conditions are generally not covered.

Best for budget travellers: Travel CUTS Bon Voyage Insurance

Starting at only $1.36 a day, Travel CUTS Bon Voyage Insurance offers very affordable travel insurance packages, and it’s personally been my “go-to” travel policy for years. Yes, it’s geared toward students (e.g., you can swap your travel dates at no charge due to an exam schedule conflict), but anyone between 15 and 50 years of age can purchase a policy.

The standard package includes hospital and medical up to $1 million, dental care, air ambulance evacuation, flight accident, accidental death or dismemberment, and trip interruption/cancellation insurance. Adventure and extreme sports are also covered.

Best for Canadians with pre-existing medical conditions: Manulife CoverMe

Manulife CoverMe offers highly comprehensive Canadian travel insurance packages for those travelling as a family, a visitor to Canada, or a student. You also get access to the TravelAid mobile app, which provides directions to the nearest medical facility and local emergency telephone numbers.

However, the stand-out feature is arguably TravelEase – a special policy designed to cover fully disclosed medical conditions. For travellers with pre-existing conditions, it insures a bunch of expenses for health services and transportation. It provides up to $10 million in emergency medical benefits – a unicorn in the travel insurance world.

Best for emergency medical assistance: Medipac Travel Insurance

Medipac is one of the only travel insurance companies out there that is staffed by their own team of trained medical professionals, via their Medipac Assistance hotline. Medipac’s medical professionals are your first point of contact in an emergency medical situation. This service is also helpful for dealing with foreign medical systems and helping to prevent unnecessary expenses when dealing with a large deductible.

Medipac offers several competitive features for their travel insurance plans, including no age limits, a claim-free discount, and a 90-day stability period for most pre-existing conditions. If your pre-existing medical condition isn’t covered by a standard Medipac insurance plan, Medipac also offers personalized, underwritten insurance policies to help you meet your needs.

Medipac is offering a 5% Vaccine Discount to clients who have received a minimum of one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine, as well as the new MedipacMAX option. This COVID insurance option provides maximum coverage of up to $5 million USD for COVID-19, in addition to its other benefits.

Best for frequent travellers: Allianz Travel Insurance

Touted as a world leader in the Canadian travel insurance and assistance industry, Allianz Travel Insurance is a major provider of travel insurance, corporate assistance, and concierge services. It seeks to help its customers find solutions to various travel-related problems. Allianz Travel has partnered with many reputable companies, including travel agencies, airlines, resorts, websites, event ticket brokers, corporations, universities and credit card companies.

Allianz Travel Insurance is a great choice for anyone looking for travel insurance. Its single-trip plans are perfect for those leaving home and visiting another destination (or destinations) before going back home. Its parent company, Allianz Global Assistance, has five plans to choose from, all offering different levels of protection and coverage.

Allianz Travel Insurance’s annual/multi-trip plans are perfect for both personal and professional travelers who take multiple trips in a year. It offers four distinct options to choose from.

Will my provincial insurance be valid overseas?

No! If you get sick or injured overseas, the Canadian government will not cough up a dime to cover your medical costs. Here are the sobering facts:

• Canadian public health insurance is not valid outside of Canada.
• Foreign hospitals can be extremely expensive and may demand payment before treating you.
• The Canadian government will not pay a Canadian’s medical bills for an illness or accident suffered abroad. You’re on the hook for footing the bill!

Will my provincial insurance work in another province/territory?

Flash your valid provincial health card in another part of Canada, and you’ll likely be covered for some of the same services insured by your home provincial plan. This is because the provinces and territories (except Quebec) signed an agreement whereby the host province foots the bill for any medically necessary health care services and gets reimbursed by the home province later.

However, that doesn’t mean you’re completely out of the woods. Depending on your destination, a slew of other services may not be covered, such as an ambulance, hospital transfer, prescription drugs, transportation back to your home province, and procedures not currently approved by your home plan.

Plus, since Quebec wasn’t a signatory to the interprovincial billing agreement, you’ll likely be charged for any medical bills incurred there. For this reason, it’s recommended that you buy extra travel insurance (or verify your  credit card’s travel insurance coverage ) to cover any uninsured health care services that may crop up during your trip.

What does the best travel insurance in Canada cover?

Every travel insurance policy is different and what’s covered depends on how much you’re willing to pay for coverage. Typical medical services that you can expect to be covered include:

• Emergency hospital and medical costs
• Ambulance and air ambulance costs
• Outpatient services
• Physician and laboratory costs
• Prescription drugs
• Direct payment to the hospitals and doctors caring for you
• Assistance with bringing a family member to your bedside
• Air ambulance or commercial repatriation home
• Return of your vehicle if you are ill and have to come home

Additional benefits may include:

• Trip cancellation for non-refundable monetary losses
• Trip interruption
• Baggage loss, rental car damage, out-of-pocket expenses
• Accidental death and dismemberment

How much coverage do I need?

Securing a policy with a minimum of $1M maximum payable is a safe bet. But don’t just look at the numbers when choosing a policy – read the fine print. Every insurer has a list of situations in which coverage is not provided, otherwise known as “exclusions.” Check whether your provider includes coverage or has provisions for the following:

• Pre-existing medical conditions: According to the International Association for Medical Assistance to Travelers, a pre-existing condition is “something that happened (or started to happen) before you were insured.” Some policies may cover claims relating to pre-existing conditions that are “stable and controlled,” but read the definitions carefully. If you don’t declare a condition, the entire policy could be invalidated!
• Medical evacuation: Ensure the policy covers medical evacuation to the nearest hospital and/or to Canada and the costs of a medical escort to accompany you to your final destination.
• Repatriation in case of death: On the grim side, ensure that your plan covers the preparation and return of your remains to Canada.
• Adventurous Activities: If you plan on engaging in “high-risk” activities on your trip, you may need to shell out extra dough for a more comprehensive plan. Many policies don’t cover “risky” activities, such as skiing or snowboarding “out of bounds,” skydiving, scuba diving, white-water rafting, mountaineering, or participation in any rodeo activity. To cover your bases, ask questions and get specifics before purchasing a policy.

You may have to pay more to have these things included, but a few extra bucks may be worth it for peace of mind.

Should I buy “a la carte” travel insurance or get a travel credit card with free insurance?

A credit card with travel insurance is always a good thing to carry in your wallet. The  best travel credit cards in Canada  usually cover everything from emergency medical costs to trip cancellation/interruption to flight delay to rental car insurance, which could save you a wad of cash.

The  Scotiabank Gold American Express ® Card  has saved my butt a few times, and I’ve filed several travel-related claims through my card. I cancelled my trip to Portugal a few years ago due to a death in the family, and I got a full refund on my hotel deposit and flights for myself, my husband, and my baby. It totally justified the $120 annual fee.

That being said, don’t rely on your credit card to take care of all your travel insurance needs. It usually includes a basic policy, meaning it offers low (or no!) travel medical insurance as part of the package. Like any travel insurance company policy, you’ve really got to read the fine print and understand the conditions of your policy to avoid sticky situations.

For instance, the Scotiabank Gold American Express ® Card requires a cardholder to have charged at least 75% of trip expenses to make a trip cancellation/interruption insurance claim. So if you book an all-inclusive vacation for $5,000 and then cancel due to illness, at least $3,750 must have been charged onto your AMEX to qualify for a claim. If you didn’t do that, you’re out of luck.

Can I still purchase insurance if i’ve already started my vacation?

The short answer: most insurance providers won’t cover you after your departure date. However, a handful of insurers (such as World Nomads) will allow you to purchase a policy while already overseas. Just know that it can come with sky-high costs and/or conditions: World Nomads has a 48-hour waiting period before coverage kicks in. The bottom line? It’s always best to buy travel insurance before leaving the country.

Can I get travel insurance for part of a trip?

Some plans offer insurance coverage options that will allow you to customize your coverage, but you’ll have to research to find one that works for your unique circumstances. Alternatively, you could take out an insurance policy for each destination and/or segment of your trip.

For instance, you could get a World Nomads policy for the two weeks you’re scuba diving in Australia, followed by a basic Travel CUTS Bon Voyage insurance to cover a month-long trip to Europe. However, when you buy Canadian travel insurance, you must select a trip start and end date – meaning you must know the exact dates for travelling to those places.

Should I carry a printout of my policy with me at all times?

I recommend carrying the travel insurance card in your wallet and locking it up in the hotel safe with other important travel documents like my passport. But don’t rely totally on paper: Wallets get lost or stolen, luggage can be delayed or M.I.A., and papers are easy to misplace when you’re on the road. My advice is to send a copy of the policy to your email and save it on your iCloud or another storage system that can be accessed anywhere, anytime.

Recommended reads

• What’s the Added Value of a Credit Card with Travel Insurance?
• The Best Travel Rewards Programs in Canada
• Aeroplan vs. AIR MILES vs. Avion

About our author

Lisa Jackson is a freelance personal finance and travel journalist, editor, and blogger who contributes to various online and print media outlets in Canada and abroad, including The Globe & Mail, Toronto Star, Islands Magazine, Fodors, BRIDES, Huffington Post Canada, CAA Magazine, The Food Network, West Jet Magazine, NUVO Magazine, and many others. When she's not writing from her home office, she's busy globe-trotting to new destinations in search of her next story.

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Travel insurance

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Our travel insurance products

As one of the top insurance companies in Canada, Manulife offers a wide range of coverage options to best suit your travel protection needs. Whether you are snowbirds, seniors, students, or visitors to Canada, we’ve got you covered.

Travelling Canadians

Help provide Canadian residents with out-of-province or country coverage for unexpected travel expenses such as emergency medical and more.

Visitors to Canada

Get affordable coverage for medical expenses while visiting Canada. Meets the requirements for super visa.

Get help with medical expenses when studying away from home – either in Canada or abroad.

Travel insurance explained

Whether it’s to the beach, the city, or somewhere in between, travel gives us unforgettable escapes in beautiful places. But what happens when a trip doesn’t go as planned? A medical emergency or accident can have financial consequences that last far longer than your trip. That’s where travel insurance comes in. This short video explains:

• What’s included in travel insurance? What are the different types (travel medical insurance, trip cancellation and interruption insurance, visitors to Canada insurance and student travel insurance)?
• How insurance can reimburse you for unexpected expenses while you’re abroad or in another province or territory, from hospitalization, to transportation, and more!

Download a transcript (PDF)

It’s easy! To get the plan best suited to your needs, you can get a quote and apply online or by calling 1-877-268-3763. Have your travel dates, contact information, health information, and credit card or bank information on hand.

Having insurance while travelling is strongly recommended. Based on a survey conducted by the Conference Board of Canada, 82% of Canadians traveled with travel coverage in 2022. This speaks volumes and shows that most Canadians think having protection for unplanned emergencies while travelling is a necessity.

Travel coverage can protect you not only from emergency medical costs, but also from flight delays/cancellations, baggage loss/damage, travel accidents, and unforeseen events. Depending on your policy, you could get reimbursed for incurred costs if a covered event caused you to cancel or rebook your trip.

Ready to buy?

You can get a quote and purchase Manulife travel insurance online through Manulife CoverMe.

Need assistance?

Want to talk through your options.

Have questions and want to speak to a licensed insurance advisor? We can help with that!

Submit a travel claim

Visit our dedicated travel portal to start a claim. First-time on the site? Simply register, activate your account, and sign in

We all know "it" happens - have a guardian by your side

WE'VE GOT YOU COVERED!

Guarding your peace of mind.

Travel Insurance for everyone! We provide tailored travel insurance solutions around the unique needs of our individual clients.  Our leading edge is our extensive product line offering the most affordable rates to provide you and your family with solid protection.  Whether you are traveling outside of your home province or country, visiting Canada or looking for a personalized healthcare plan – we have you covered.

CANADIANS TRAVELING

Whether you’re traveling to another province or outside of Canada, make sure you have insurance should the unexpected happen.

TRAVELING TO CANADA

Planning a visit, moving to Canada or perhaps returning from a long stay abroad?  Get the coverage you will need before you arrive.

INDIVIDUAL HEALTH PLANS

Life is unpredictable.  Don’t risk becoming overloaded with out-of-pocket medical expenses.  Invest in a personalized healthcare plan today.

TRIPS INSURED

CLAIM REIMBURSEMENT

HAPPY CUSTOMERS

Travel Insurance for Everyone.

Ready to get insured? In a few steps you can get a live quote and buy, everything online. Or you can talk to our specialists and they will find you the best coverage at the best rate.

THREE REASONS TO CHOOSE US

Our clients are our #1 priority. Offering world class customer service, we are always here to assist you.

Our solid systems and procedures secure you get the coverage you need no matter your medical conditions.

Our team will find you the best policy at the best rate by accessing most products in the market and exclusive programs.

Happy clients are the best form of advertising. Read more of our stellar reviews here .

Our unique circumstance was such that we couldn’t insure a particular risk while travelling. I looked for an insurance broker. The reviews I read here were favourable. We had a very good experience with Travel Guardian Insurance. They were able to find coverage that met our needs. We would easily do business with them anytime.  

I highly recommend this company, my grandma was told she wouldn’t be able to get travel insurance to go to asia, which would have been her last chance to go. travel guardian reviewed her medical history and got the proper supporting documentation and determined they could cover her. because of this company she has been able to go to asia twice to see her family. thanks travel guardian.

Christina M.

I highly recommend Travel Guardian Insurance. I am 85 and have, as expected, some issues. They were dealt with and although the premium was not inexpensive I will now travel, worryfree, knowing that I am completely covered. The representative, I had the pleasure of dealing with was patient, knowledgeable and professional . Thank you

The travel guardian team represents among the highest levels of customer service i have experienced in the industry. information is always accurate, turn around time to questions and quote requests always very fast. staff is always very clear and takes the time to be very detailed with clients to help them make an informed decision quickly, minimising the end to end time to make their process an excellent experience..

Margaret J.

We have been insuring with Travel Guardian for a number of years and been completely satisfied with the responsiveness and level of service provided. Additionally, we have from time to time compared Travel Guardian's prices with other providers and have always found the best price with Travel Guardian.

Need a travel insurance quote or have more questions contact us today..

No matter how much you plan before your vacation or travel, unforeseen circumstances can always dampen a trip. But don't worry — Travel Guardian Insurance is here for all your travel uncertainties with our exclusive range of Travel Insurance Plans.

Travel insurance is aimed to indemnify against potential dangers, emergency circumstances, and financial losses that may occur while travelling. Some of our policies cover missed flight arrangements and misplaced luggage and others cover accidents or acute diseases.

Our Travel Insurance policies will give you the right coverage for your specific needs — such as travel health insurance, baggage insurance and multi-trip benefits to keep you protected throughout your travels.

Travel Guardian Insurance prioritizes customer service. Our travel insurance specialists will guide you through our travel insurance plans and answer any questions you may have. We believe that age should never be a restriction to travelling! Coverage can account for health conditions with individual health plans.

Travel Guardian Insurance also offers travel insurance to young people and families. If your trip gets cancelled, a health issue arises, you have to travel internationally, or you wish to travel out of the province, look no further than Travel Guardian Insurance for affordable travel insurance plans.

Travel Guardian Insurance has been trusted by international travellers since 1991. Beginning in Ontario, we now have five offices across Canada. Our experts will get you the finest insurance at the fairest price!

Why choose Travel Guardian Insurance?

We make it simple to get the finest travel coverage plan for your trip. Finding low-cost, high-quality travel insurance can be challenging. Travel Guardian make the process easy and stress-free! Don't make travel insurance a frustrating process — our travel insurance specialists will guide you through the entire process.

We customize our travel insurance plans according to our client's specific requirements.

Travel Guardian Insurance can help you cover the costs of:

Medical expenses if you are injured while travelling or become sick.

Lost baggage or stolen valuables.

Travel disruption if your trip is cancelled, delayed or interrupted by events beyond your control (such as natural disasters).

Rescheduling expenses if you have to change your travel plans.

What do we offer?

Our competitive advantage is our wide product range, which offers the cheapest travel insurance rates to provide the best travel insurance coverage. We have you covered if you go outside your native province or country, visit Canada, or seek a customized healthcare plan. Our services for travel insurance include:

Canadians Travelling

Travelling to Canada

Individual Health Plans

If you are ready to be insured, you can receive a live quotation and fill everything online in just a few steps. Alternatively, you may talk to our specialists, who can help you find the best coverage at the lowest price.

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Travel has changed, and we’re changing with it

Dedicated to helping and protecting.

With over 30 years of experience helping Canadian travellers in their time of greatest need, we place the customer at the heart of everything we do.

This commitment to caring and customer-first approach is a common thread throughout the full range of unique travel insurance and emergency assistance solutions we provide to our partners and their customers.

Travelling or returning to Canada?

Waiting at customs can take its toll after a long trip. To avoid delays, be sure to follow the new mandatory travel requirements and submit your information digitally using ArriveCAN . 

Learn more at  Canada.ca/ArriveCAN

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Canadians are optimistic about travel in 2024: Blue Cross Travel Study

• In Our Community
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Take off with Canada’s #1 travel insurance provider

Enjoy the confidence and peace of mind with Blue Cross when exploring Canada or around the world

#1 in Travel Insurance

Out-of-province emergency medical expenses are not generally covered by your provincial medical plan and these expenses can be financially overwhelming.

For millions of Canadians, comprehensive emergency travel coverage offered by Blue Cross has become an essential part of their holiday plans.

As a recognized symbol of health care globally, being trusted, professional and familiar is what you need in your coverage provider when travelling out of province.

Travel Worry Free

Let Blue Cross travel coverage take care of any unexpected medical emergency costs so you can make the most of your trip.

Whether you travel frequently during the year, take regular sun destination trips or do only occasional short trips, there is a plan that’s right for you.

Blue Cross is a member of a trusted global network, including the American Blue Cross & Blue Shield Association and the International Federation of Health Funds.

Canadians are optimistic about travel in 2024

The cost of travel is on the rise, but that isn’t stopping most Canadians from planning a vacation.

A ccording to a new study from Blue Cross , Canadians spent an average of $4,200 on their last vacation, and 94 per cent feel the cost of travelling is increasing .

H owever , the 2024 Blue Cross Travel Study also reveals that more Canadians are feeling optimistic about travel and are planning more trips this year.   

Find the Right Plan

We understand making the right choice for your benefits and coverage is important.

We’re here to help!

Please click below to be redirected to your local Blue Cross for more specifics, including local contact information.

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Choose your region

For Members

Find a plan, advice center, common questions, travel insurance for bc families and individuals.

Affordable travel starts with flexible protection from unexpected travel costs like medical emergencies, trip cancellation fees, baggage issues and more.

Buy Now Questions? Make a Claim

Why British Columbians choose our Travel Insurance

Free for kids.

Only Pacific Blue Cross covers kids of all families for free when you buy Emergency Medical coverage.

Pre-Existing Coverage

Only Pacific Blue Cross offers $10 Million in travel insurance with just 7 days stability of your pre-existing conditions.

COVID-19 Coverage

Pacific Blue Cross Emergency Medical Insurance includes coverage for COVID-19 when you’re fully vaccinated.

You Save as a Member

Members always save an extra 10% and our family plans cover your children for free.

Always on Call

Our emergency assistance team doesn't take a day off.  They're available 24/7 should an emergency occur while you are travelling.

Recognized around the world

One of the most recognized symbols of health care in the world.  So you’ll be covered from Toronto to Thailand.

First Payer

If your employer provides you with benefits from Pacific Blue Cross, our plans protect your lifetime maximum.

A Proud Partner

We are the travel insurance partner of Make-A-Wish, helping make dream trips come true.

Choose one of our Travel Insurance plans below to get started

Emergency Medical

Comprehensive, flexible emergency medical care coverage for British Columbians while travelling outside of BC.

Why do I need this?

Trip Protection

Peace of mind coverage for trip cancellation, trip interruption, airline delays and baggage loss, damage or delay.

Visitors to Canada

Emergency health coverage for tourists, workers, new immigrants and students visiting BC.

— Pacific Blue Cross — Travel Health Check

Select the destination(s) you’ll be travelling to below

Frequently Asked Questions about Travel Advisories and Vaccinations

Travel Insurance and COVID-19

Travelling is a little different right now, so we’ve put together some helpful information to help you enjoy healthy travels.

Why Do I Need Travel Insurance

Know before you go — testing, entry, borders, covid-19 coverage how it works, more questions our travel faq, a few frequently asked questions about travel insurance.

You should be aware that your provincial coverage may not pay for all health care costs you may incur while outside of the province, and the difference can be substantial. For example, B.C. pays $75 (CAD) a day for emergency in-patient hospital care, while the average cost in the U.S. often exceeds $1000 (US) a day, and can be as high as $10,000 (US) a day in intensive care. For this reason, you are strongly advised to purchase additional health insurance from a private insurer before you leave the province, whether you are going to another part of Canada or outside the country. You are advised to purchase additional coverage even if you plan to be away for only a day.

When you purchase Travel Medical insurance for one or two parents, each dependent child 21 years of age or younger who is subsequently added to your travel policy will receive free emergency medical coverage for up to $10,000,000.

An Annual plan provides the best value if you're taking two or more trips per year.

For example, at the 0-34 age group: Two 15-day Single trip plans: $86 One 15-day Annual plan: $52 Total savings with an Annual plan: $34

Plus, with an Annual plan, all of your trips under 15 days are covered within the year-- for even more savings.

Yes - Regardless of any existing conditions, we always advise members to still purchase coverage, as it will protect against all other accidents not related to that condition.

Travel insurance policies are designed to provide protection against unexpected emergency medical expenses, trip cancellation or interruption.

Depending on your age and the condition pre-existing medical conditions are covered if they are stable for a certain time period (as specified in your policy) before your policy's effective date.

It is important you review and understand any clauses or definitions in your chosen policy. Each travel insurance policy will uniquely define a pre-existing condition and there are many variations in wording. For example, policies may not cover conditions arising prior to the trip departure date:

• that are unstable
• where symptoms of an illness appeared
• that have been diagnosed or treated
• where medications have been changed

Travel policies will also specify a time frame, based on your age that relates to the evaluation of your pre-existing conditions. This time frame could be as short as 3 months but could be 1 year, 5 years or longer.

Some policies may provide coverage for your pre-existing conditions if you complete a more detailed medical questionnaire.

When purchasing our travel policy, we will evaluate pre-existing conditions for people 60 years and younger based on their health within the previous 3 months prior to the day their coverage begins. For people age 61 and over, we evaluate based on their health within 6 months prior.

It depends on the illness, its seriousness and its stability. Some illnesses are easily covered. Others require a three or six month stability period, depending on your age. Blue Cross offers the possibility of covering your illness with a medical questionnaire (available for persons aged 61 and over) filled out by your treating physician; Blue Cross’ medical team will then evaluate your condition. If authorized, you can travel worry-free: your chronic illness will also be covered.

When travelling internationally, you may be at risk for a number of diseases which are common in other parts of the world. You can learn more about Travel Vaccines on our Vaccination page .

Looking for other types of coverage?

Personal health insurance.

Our Personal Health Insurance plans providers coverage for people who are not covered by an employer group plan

Critical Illness Insurance

Our Critical Illness Insurance can help manage your ongoing financial obligations in the unfortunate scenario of recovering from a serious disease

Life Insurance

Ensure the financial health of your loved ones from one of the most respected Life Insurance brands in Canada

Plan Details

All of our plans include:

• Up to $10 million of emergency medical care
• 24/7 access to a team of professionals to contact you with local resources
• Direct Pay — We will pay any providers directly.
• Coverage for pre-existing conditions — As long as your pre-existing condition meets a minimum stability period, you can receive full protection.

Plan Highlights

• Emergency medical expenses
• Ambulance and taxi fees
• Repatriation costs
• Transportation to visit the covered person
• Medical Follow-up in Canada
• Subsistence allowance

Add-on Options

You can add the following individual benefits to your plan or choose a package and save:

• Trip Cancellation or Interruption
• Emergency Return
• Air-Flight Accicent
• Baggage loss, delay or damage
• Accidental Death and Dismemberment

Call us if an emergency strikes

If you do experience an unexpected emergency while travelling, we are here to help.

During your trip, you can call our   Medi-Assist   service to determine your level of coverage and receive help:

• In Canada or the U.S., call toll-free:   1-888-699-9333
• Outside of Canada or the U.S. or where toll-free is unavailable, please call collect to   1-604-419-4487   and we will pay for the call.

Claims Process

Out-of-Province Emergency Medical Claims  — Four simple steps

Trip Cancellation / Baggage Claim Form — Form for claiming Trip Cancellations or Lost Baggage [pdf]

Visitors to Canada Travel Plan Claim Form — Form for claiming against a Visitors to Canada Travel Plan contract [pdf]

Pacific Blue Cross Travel Medical Insurance provides $10,000,000 in coverage for costs related to emergency medical care resulting from an accident or sudden illness while travelling outside British Columbia. An Annual plan provides the best value for snowbirds, frequent travellers and cross-border hoppers who make multiple trips outside BC each year. Plan coverage includes:

In addition to paying for you to return to your province or residence to receive immediate medical attention*, we will arrange to have your vehicle returned, your pet returned and your baggage returned. Should an insured person pass away, we cover the cost of repatriating the deceased.

*Requires the authorization of the attending physician and CanAssistance.

Trip Protection Options

You can add the following individual benefits to your plan, buy them separately, or choose a package and save:

Pacific Blue Cross Visitors to Canada Insurance provides coverage for costs related to emergency medical care resulting from an accident or sudden illness while visiting British Columbia. Plan coverage includes:

Hospitalization, Medical and Paramedical Expenses

Transportation expenses.

The following services must be approved and planned by Medi-Assist.

We’ve got you covered, even when travel advisories change

Pacific Blue Cross Travel Medical plans contain $10M in COVID-19 coverage for fully vaccinated travellers, no matter the travel advisory. So rest assured, your plan will continue to provide the protection you need in emergency medical situations, even if and when Canadian government advisories change. If you aren’t fully vaccinated, you can learn more about how changing travel advisories may impact your coverage in our Frequently Asked Questions .

Speak to someone to learn more about one of our TRAVEL insurance products

Contact us about your existing Pacific Blue Cross coverage or products

I’d like more information on your Travel Plans

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Travel Insurance for Canadians

Trusted by Canada's most experienced travellers

Medical Professionals for travel medical insurance

* The above rate categories are based on one’s medical condition, as determined by a series of medical questions on the application . Coverage is the same for all categories. ** For a more detailed quotation, please visit our detailed quote page, where you can enter additional information, such as your province, discount, etc. *** All quotations are subject to change without notice.

MEDIPAC TRAVEL INSURANCE

Travel insurance trusted by canada’s most experienced travellers*, new to medipac or this is your first time buying travel medical insurance.

Many Canadians are simply looking for travel insurance that provides “peace of mind” at the lowest cost. While this may be important things to consider, understand that your true goal when buying travel medical insurance is to ensure that you are properly covered and have a trusted company beside you with the necessary medical resources and expertise to help manage your medical emergency. A company that is both reliable and reputable, on a grand scale, and has a proven track record of excellence.

That company is Medipac.

*Medipac Travel Insurance is endorsed by the Canadian Snowbird Association and the Royal Canadian Legion .

Medipac provides comprehensive coverage, up to $5 million USD, including coverage for COVID-19. And, together with Medipac Assist, Medipac has the necessary medical resources to properly support our clients during a medical emergency while travelling.

Medipac Assist provides dedicated emergency assistance lines to travellers, staffed with in-house medical professionals who are there for you, from application to assistance.

In terms of the cost of travel insurance, Medipac rates often are lower than those of other plans, almost certainly in the long-run, when it’s more important. With our Claim-free, Loyalty and other discounts many clients save upwards of 20% , every year.

Now that you have made the right choice, be sure to visit our “ How to Save ” section. Most new clients can save 3-5% in their first year, with our Claim-free Advantage discount. You may need to call to qualify. (1-888-633-4722)

For your reference, and to help you make an informed choice, be sure to download the Medipac Travel Insurance Guide , which includes helpful tips and a complete copy of the Medipac Travel Insurance Policy.

WATCH VIDEO

Endorsed by the Canadian Snowbird Association and the Royal Canadian Legion.

Medical professionals for travel medical insurance. it only makes sense, medipac is not available through brokers. don’t be fooled..

STEPS TO PROPER TRAVEL COVERAGE

Travel Insurance Policy

• Download and read Travel Emergency Medical Insurance Policy.
• Pay particular attention to sections that discuss what is not covered: General Limitations, Exclusions, Pre-Existing Conditions, etc.
• Call us if you have any questions.

Medical Questions

• Download and read the Travel Medical Insurance Application .
• Review questions and answers with your doctor, if you are unsure.
• Determine your rate category: Preferred Plus, Preferred or Standard.

Travel Insurance Application

• What’s your discount?
• New to Medipac? You may qualify for savings. CALL US.
• Get Quick Quote .
• Apply online or request an application package .

An informed traveller makes a safe traveller. If you need help, CALL US!

If your health or medication changes before you leave, call us, have a pre-existing medical condition call us, not eligible, or have questions about the application call us.

TRAVEL INSURANCE COVERAGE OPTIONS

Annual Plan

Superannuates

MedipacPLUS

Underwritten Plan

• Increase coverage to $5 million USD, including coverage for COVID-19
• Protect your discounts in the event of a claim, plus 8 additional benefits.
• A must-have option for only $147.
• 23 or 33 day Annual Plans available.
• Apply only once for all your trips this year.
• Save time and money.
• Receive credit for your existing PSHCP plan.
• Ensure you’re covered from day one.
• 40-day annual plan included at no extra cost.
• Already have coverage, but with limited days?
• Top up your existing plan with Medipac.
• Some conditions apply.
• A good option for only $59!
• Includes 9 important benefits.
• Protect your Claim-Free Discount.
• Not eligible, have a Pre-Existing Condition or change in health?
• Our medical staff can review your file.
• Coverage may be available. CALL US 1-877-888-5259 .

HOW TO SAVE ON TRAVEL INSURANCE

NEW to Medipac? You can save up to 5% more!

Loyalty credit – save up to 10%, claim-free discount – save up to 10%, provincial discounts, deductible options, annual plans, when to call, health or medication change before your effective date of insurance., have a pre-existing condition that is not stable., not eligible ask about our underwritten plan., if you want to change your departure or return date., require an extension to your policy when travelling, call before your policy expires., need to seek medical treatment, call medipac assist even if you have a larger deductible..

Travel Insurance

More coverage in more places ®.

Get out there and enjoy yourself knowing you have the right coverage and 24/7 access to a caring team who’s always on call—no matter how big or how small the emergency.

More Coverage In More Places™

• Coverage Types
• Submit Claim

Explore Your Coverage Options

Travel packages.

Coverage for the widest range of unexpected travel situations.

Travel Medical

Coverage to fill the gap left by my provincial health insurance.

Cancellation & Interruption

Coverage for non-refundable and/or non-transferable trip expenses if my trip is cancelled or interrupted.

Visitors to Canada

When visiting, immigrating to or studying in Canada and need emergency medical coverage.

Travel Insurance Advice by Trip Type

Choose from the topics below for some quick advice on the type of coverage that may be right for you:

Travel Insurance FAQs

Have a question about travel insurance? Get the answers you need here.

For questions about travel and COVID-19, please visit the COVID-19 page.

• Eligibility
• Emergencies

Our goal is to make affordable travel insurance coverage available to as many Canadians as possible. In general, any Canadian resident can purchase some form of coverage with us. Factors such as where you are travelling, your health and the length of your trip may affect the specific coverage(s) available to you.

Note : Non-residents travelling to Canada, immigrants to Canada or foreign students studying in Canada may be eligible to purchase one of our Visitors to Canada Plans.

Generally speaking, no. While your age can affect your eligibility for certain coverages, we have packages and plans that cover all age groups. If you are age 65 or older, we may ask you to answer a few questions about your health to make sure you have the most appropriate coverage.

Yes, you may purchase a policy for your parents. Simply call us at 1-866-896-8172 , buy online , or visit an RBC Insurance Store . Depending on their age, they may be required to complete health questions in order to obtain coverage. If this is not a requirement, please keep in mind that all terms and conditions apply to your parents, therefore we recommend that you review the insurance with them prior to purchase.

Possibly. Depending on your age, medical condition and, if applicable, your answers to our health questions, pre-existing medical conditions are covered if they are stable for a certain time period (as specified in your policy) before your policy's effective date.

Note: Please refer to the policy document for complete coverage details regarding pre-existing conditions.

Your answers to the health questions (if applicable) will be used to help determine the benefits you are eligible to receive under your insurance policy.

When answering the health questions:

• Take your time. The questions may take up to 10 minutes to complete.
• You (the applicant) should complete and sign the Medical Questionnaire. (If you have someone else complete the Medical Questionnaire on your behalf, it is still your responsibility to make sure the answers to the questions are correct.)
• Read and answer each question carefully and accurately. Review your answers to confirm they are correct. Incorrect answers may lead to your coverage being voided or your claim denied.
• Have your prescriptions or a description of your medications nearby for reference.
• If you are unsure about any questions regarding your medical condition or medications, please speak to your physician.

If necessary, a family member or close friend can complete the questions on your behalf. Please keep in mind, however, that it is still your responsibility to sign the form and make sure the answers are correct.

Yes, it is recommended that you buy coverage for your spouse as well.

This answer depends largely on your child's age.

• If your child is under 2 years old and you are purchasing the Deluxe Package or a TravelCare ® Package, then your child receives emergency medical coverage at no extra cost.
• If your child is 2 or older , you'll need to purchase emergency medical coverage for him or her.
• No matter how old your child is , if you've purchased an airline ticket or made a separate trip deposit for him or her, consider buying a travel insurance package or trip cancellation and interruption insurance .

The right coverage for your trip depends on several factors, including (but not limited to) where you're travelling to, how long you’ll be gone, the kind of transportation you'll be using and, in some instances, your overall health. View all of our travel insurance products now.

An accident, illness or medical emergency can happen anywhere, anytime. If you need medical care or treatment in another country, your government health plan may cover only a portion of the costs. Travel insurance starts where these plans leave off.

Plus, with our emergency medical coverage, you have access to the multilingual representatives of Allianz Global Assistance.

Yes, if you are travelling outside your home province or territory. There are several reasons why it's important to get travel medical insurance when you're travelling within Canada. One reason is that accidents can happen anywhere. Another is that government health insurance plans do have limits on reimbursement of emergency medical expenses incurred while you are in another province. For example, the ambulance, emergency dental treatment and prescription drugs might not be covered by some government health insurance plans.

You may extend your coverage if you extend your trip, subject to certain conditions of your policy.

If you've purchased a single trip plan, the following conditions apply:

• If you have not had a medical condition during your trip or while covered under your policy, you can request an extension by contacting us at 1-866-896-8172 before your original policy’s expiry date.
• If you have had a medical condition during your trip and while covered under your policy, you must request the extension by contacting Allianz Global Assistance before the expiry date of your original policy. Your extension is subject to the approval of Allianz Global Assistance.
• You must pay the required additional premium before your original policy’s expiry date.
• If we are unable to extend your particular policy's coverage due to the trip duration limits of your policy, you may be able to purchase a new policy from us.

If you've purchased a multi-trip annual plan, the following conditions apply:

You may purchase a top-up policy for the additional number of days beyond the duration covered by your multi-trip annual plan as follows:

• Before your effective date, you may contact us at 1-866-896-8172 to purchase top-up coverage.
• After your effective date and if you have not had a medical condition during your trip, you must contact us at 1-866-896-8172 before your original policy’s expiry date to purchase top-up coverage.
• After your effective date and if you have had a medical condition during your trip, you must contact Allianz Global Assistance before your original policy’s expiry date to request approval for and to purchase top-up coverage.
• The terms, conditions and exclusions of the new top-up policy apply to you.
• You must pay the required top-up premium on or before the effective date of the top-up period.

If you do NOT top-up your coverage for a trip, you will not be covered for any claims you make outside the period of insurance for that trip. If the top-up policy you are purchasing requires you to complete health questions, you must complete the health questions.

Please see the policy documents for complete coverage details regarding trip extensions.

It may, but not always. We recommend that you carefully review the travel insurance coverage provided by your credit card, as well as any special conditions or stipulations.

Do you have an RBC Royal Bank ® credit card?

To review the travel insurance coverage that comes with your RBC Royal Bank credit card, visit: www.rbcroyalbank.com/cards/documentation/index.html and click the "Insurance Certificate" link for your card.

We recommend that you carefully review your government health plan coverage. Government plans may not cover all emergency medical expenses once you leave your home province/territory and typically cover only a limited portion once you leave the country. In fact, the Canadian Government (Foreign Affairs, Trade and Development Canada) urges Canadians to purchase supplemental health insurance when leaving the country. They say:

Do not rely on your provincial or territorial health plan to cover costs if you get sick or are injured while abroad. Out-of-country health care can be costly, and your health plan may not cover any medical expenses abroad. It is your responsibility to seek information from your provincial or territorial health authority and to obtain supplementary travel insurance and understand the terms of your policy. 2

Plus, government health insurance plans don't guarantee coverage for special care (air ambulance or emergency dental services, for instance).

Unlike government health insurance plans, our insurance offers you:

• Unlimited coverage for eligible medical expenses 1
• Up-front payment of eligible medical expenses whenever possible
• 24-hour, multilingual emergency medical assistance—one toll-free phone call puts you in touch with a multilingual professional who will refer you to a local doctor or facility in order for you to receive the care you need

Government health insurance plans also don't provide coverage for situations such as lost, damaged or delayed baggage or trip cancellation and interruption. Our travel insurance can provide these coverages and more.

Yes, you do need travel insurance to protect yourself against the unexpected, even if you are going to the United States for a few days. An illness or accident can happen at any time, whether you're on the road for a few days, or a few months. And remember, the cost of health care is very expensive in the United States and very little of this cost would be covered by your government health insurance plan, credit card or company benefits plan. For a short trip, the cost of travel insurance is minimal, and it gives you the protection you need.

If you purchase trip cancellation and interruption insurance, it will help pay for your expenses to return home in the event of a covered emergency. There are a number of circumstances that qualify as an emergency (for example, the death or serious illness of a family member). The cost of cancelling a trip prior to departure can be very expensive, as most trips are non-refundable and/or non-transferable, especially if you have to cancel just before leaving on your trip. Having to return early from a trip can also be very expensive. Either way, trip cancellation and interruption insurance is very important to protect your travel investment.

You must purchase coverage before departing on your trip. You may benefit from purchasing coverage as soon as you make your initial trip deposit, especially if you are purchasing trip cancellation and interruption insurance —either as stand-alone coverage or as part of one of our insurance packages .

If you were to book your trip 6 months in advance, consider the unexpected situations that could occur in that time.

If you purchase travel insurance from RBC Insurance, we will pay the eligible bills directly to the hospital or physician whenever possible.

There are a number of sports that are not covered during your trip. For more details, see the Exclusions section of the individual policy document.

You may purchase a top-up policy for the extra number of days beyond the duration covered by your multi-trip annual plan. Here are the conditions:

• After your effective date and if you have had a medical condition during your trip, you must contact Allianz Global Assistance before your original policy’s expiry date to request approval for and purchase top-up coverage.

Please see the policy document for complete coverage details regarding top-up coverage.

If you purchase one of our travel medical insurance plans—either Classic Medical or TravelCare ® Medical—you can, subject to certain conditions:

• If you are travelling for more than 183 days, you may purchase single trip coverage for up to 365 days provided that you are covered under your government health plan for the full duration of your trip.
• If you are 40-74 years of age , you must also answer a few health questions, which will determine whether you are eligible to purchase coverage for trips beyond 183 days.

Yes, if you are travelling with your spouse/partner and children or other family members, you could save money with our family plan pricing.

The cost of a trip can be a significant financial investment. A lot can also happen in the time between booking your trip and departing—if a medical emergency or other unexpected event prevents you from going on your trip, you could potentially lose some (or possibly all) of the money you paid.

With trip cancellation and interruption insurance, you're protected when certain situations prevent you from travelling as planned. Examples include:

• You can't travel due to an illness, job loss or immediate family member's medical emergency
• You need to return home earlier than scheduled because of a family emergency or medical condition

Note : We strongly recommend that you purchase trip cancellation and interruption insurance at the time you pay your initial travel deposit. Please see the policy document for complete coverage details, including terms and conditions.

Yes! Tell them about our Visitors to Canada Plans , which offer affordable emergency medical protection to visitors, immigrants, foreign students and Canadians without government health plan coverage.

We strongly recommend you do. Your insurance policy is a valuable source of information and contains provisions that may limit or exclude coverage. Please read it before you go, keep it in a safe place and carry it with you when you travel.

RBC Insurance has appointed AZGA Service Canada Inc. (operating as “Allianz Global Assistance”) as the provider of all assistance and claims.

Whether you have a new claim or questions about an existing claim, representatives will work with you to make things as easy as possible. Visit the Travel Insurance Claims page for more details about how to submit a claim.

It's our goal to settle every claim as quickly as possible. While every claim is different, there are things you can do to speed things up:

• If you require emergency care on your trip , call our emergency contact number immediately, or at the earliest possible opportunity (someone else can call if you're unable to). If you do not, your coverage may be limited and your benefits could be reduced.
• If you need to cancel your trip prior to departing , call your travel agency, airline, tour company or the carrier immediately to cancel your trip no later than one business day after the cause of cancellation. Call Allianz Global Assistance the same day.
• For all claims , carefully read the instructions for submitting your claim. Make sure you fully complete any required claims forms and submit all required documentation at your earliest possible convenience. For example, you may need to provide information on your past health history if you are submitting an emergency medical claim or a trip cancellation claim due to a medical condition.

The documentation you need to provide will depend on the type of claim, the type of plan you purchased and the province/territory in which you live. Visit the Travel Insurance Claims page for more details about how to submit a claim.

No matter where in the world you are, we’ll be here for you. If you have an emergency, you can call Allianz Global Assistance toll-free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-855-947-1581 from the U.S. and Canada or (905) 816-2561 collect from anywhere in the world . Or as an alternative, you can email Allianz Global Assistance at: [email protected] . Disclaimer 3

The multilingual representatives of Allianz Global Assistance are ready 24 hours a day, seven days a week when you have a medical emergency. You can rely on them to refer you or (when medically appropriate) transfer you to one of the accredited medical service providers within the Allianz Global Assistance network, so you can receive the care you need as quickly as possible.

Because the representatives are multilingual and have 24-hour access to real-time translation services, they can provide the help you need in your own language—and also have someone to communicate on your behalf with medical personnel who may speak a different language.

Whenever possible, Allianz Global Assistance will also request for the medical service provider within the network to bill the covered medical expenses directly to us instead of you—reducing stress and hassle.

Yes, as soon as medically possible. There are several reasons to call the emergency contact number first:

The multilingual representatives of Allianz Global Assistance are experienced experts in coordinating emergency care for travellers in foreign lands.

They're available 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

If you don't call Allianz Global Assistance first, your benefits may be reduced and your coverage may be limited. As stated in your policy, if you do not contact Allianz Global Assistance at the time of your medical emergency or you choose to receive treatment from a medical service provider outside the Allianz Global Assistance network, you will be responsible for 30% of your medical expenses covered under your insurance and in excess of your medical expenses paid by your government health plan.

You can call Allianz Global Assistance toll-free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-855-947-1581 from the U.S. and Canada or (905) 816-2561 collect from anywhere in the world.

Of course, obtaining urgent care in an emergency is your #1 priority—and our representatives are here to help at our toll-free emergency contact number. However, if your medical condition Opens in new window prevents you from calling before seeking emergency treatment, then you must call as soon as medically possible.

Someone else (a family member, friend, hospital or physician's office staff, etc.) may call on your behalf–so it's a very good idea to carry your RBC Insurance travel insurance wallet card with you at all times.

They may call Allianz Global Assistance toll-free 24 hours a day, 7 days a week at 1-855-947-1581 from the U.S. and Canada or (905) 816-2561 collect from anywhere in the world.

Or as an alternative, they can email3 Allianz Global Assistance at: [email protected] .

We will pay your eligible medical bills directly to the medical provider or hospital for you whenever possible.

Travel together. Save together.

Travelling with a group of 10 or more? Save with a group discount and enjoy all the benefits of RBC ® Travel Insurance.

Reasons to Love RBC Travel Insurance

Coverage available for all ages.

If you are travelling with your spouse/partner and children or other family members, you could save money with our family plan pricing.

Simplified Medical Questionnaire

Age 65 or over? Buying travel insurance is faster than ever – no long, complicated medical questionnaires.

Variety of Coverages

Whether you’re going on an overseas adventure, or a quick jaunt to another province or state for the weekend, a variety of packages and plans are available to cover your travels.

24/7 Worldwide Emergency Medical Assistance

Experienced staff at the 24/7 assistance centre will provide:

• Caring, multilingual support
• Help finding local medical care
• Access to emergency air ambulances
• Access to expert medical professionals who will monitor your care
• Help with transportation to the nearest medical facility

For emergency medical and travel assistance

• See Emergency Contact Details

For questions about travel insurance or claims

• Speak to a Travel Advisor at 1-888-896-8172
• Get a Quote

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Travel Insurance

Travel insurance for Canada

Mandy Sleight

Alyce Meserve

“Verified by an expert” means that this article has been thoroughly reviewed and evaluated for accuracy.

Heidi Gollub

Updated 5:04 a.m. UTC Jan. 25, 2024

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Lucky-photographer, Getty Images

• Travel insurance can cover injuries or illnesses while you’re traveling in Canada, as your domestic health insurance may not travel with you across the border.
• The best travel insurance for Canada will also cover costs associated with trip cancellation, delay and interruption.
• If you plan to travel with high-value items like a laptop, smartphone or camera, ensure the travel insurance you buy has enough per-item coverage for lost, damaged or stolen belongings.

Many U.S. travelers flock to our northern neighbor to take in Canada’s cultural experiences and stunning remote landscapes. While travel insurance isn’t a requirement to enter Canada, it may be worth purchasing for the benefits, like medical insurance, trip cancellation and baggage coverage.

“Even if Canada doesn’t feel too far from the U.S., being out of the country can be stressful, and any unexpected costs that get in your way, from lost baggage to getting sick or injured, can make any mishaps even more upsetting,” said Daniel Durazo, spokesperson for Allianz Global Assistance. “With the right travel insurance policy, you can ease your mind from unexpected travel scenarios or outrageous out-of-pocket bills.” 

Here’s what you should consider when buying travel insurance for Canada.

Understanding travel insurance for Canada 

Understanding Canada travel insurance can make choosing a policy easier. Compare plans to see which policies meet your travel needs. For example, some plans have exclusions for adventure activities, such as rock climbing without equipment, but may offer an adventure sports bundle as an upgrade. 

There are also various limitations on medical coverages, trip delay, trip interruption and trip cancellation benefits that could make one policy better than another for your Canada trip.

It’s best to buy travel insurance soon after making your first trip deposit. This way you’re covered for a longer period, at no additional cost. 

“Travel insurance policies typically only cover unknown and unforeseen situations, from unexpected injuries or illness to flight cancellations and weather-related events,” said Durazo. “If you wait until you have a problem, you likely won’t be covered.”

Buying travel insurance coverage within 14 days of your first trip deposit ensures you get the most benefits. Depending on the plan, buying early could also make you eligible for a pre-existing condition waiver. This means the insurance provider won’t look back at your medical records if you file a claim for a medical condition you already had before buying the policy.

But if you have a trip coming up soon, don’t worry — you can buy a travel insurance policy up to 24 hours before your departure date.

Key coverage considerations for travel insurance in Canada 

The best travel insurance plans bundle together several types of insurance, from trip cancellation insurance to travel medical insurance. No matter what your plans are once you enter Canada, consider these key coverages when researching travel insurance to Canada. 

Trip cancellation insurance  

Sometimes, things happen that require you to cancel your trip. Maybe a family member was going to watch your kids while you’re gone, and they’re now too sick to take care of them. Or severe weather impacts the airline, grounding your flight for the days you planned to be in Canada.

Trip cancellation insurance will reimburse up to 100% of prepaid, nonrefundable expenses, like a flightseeing tour in the Yukon or a Johnston Canyon tour in Banff, if you have to cancel your trip for a covered reason. Other reasons you might have to cancel include family emergency, job loss, severe injury or sickness, terrorism or military deployment. 

However, you can’t cancel for any reason — like a falling out with your travel companion — and get reimbursed, unless you upgrade your travel insurance plan to “cancel for any reason” (CFAR) coverage. Although CFAR can add around 50% to your travel insurance costs, the ability to cancel for any reason and receive up to 75% of your nonrefundable expenses can make the extra expense worth it. Just make sure you cancel at least 48 hours before your departure date and time to get this benefit.

Delays in your Canada trip  

If you’re headed to Canada during winter, severe weather could shut down the airport or cause flight delays. If you’re flying from Baltimore to Whistler with a connection in Chicago, but a winter storm causes delays in Baltimore, you might miss your connecting flight to Vancouver.

Most travel insurance plans will reimburse for meals and hotel accommodation expenses you incur from a travel delay. But to be eligible, the delay usually has to be at least six hours, with some policies requiring 12 consecutive hours before trip delay coverage kicks in. Seven Corners, for instance, will reimburse up to $250 per day per person to a maximum of $2,000 for a delay of at least six hours.

Trip insurance with delay benefits will also reimburse for prepaid expenses you miss out on because of a covered delay. So, if you miss out on your first two days at the ski lodge and can’t transfer or exchange prepaid snowboarding lessons, you can file a claim.

Tackling trip interruption  

The last thing you’d expect while taking in the Halifax, Nova Scotia sites is to have a family emergency back home. If you get a call that your mom fell down the stairs and is in the hospital with a broken leg, you’ll probably be ready to catch the next flight home to be with her.

Luckily, travel insurance includes trip interruption benefits, which can help you get there without a large out-of-pocket expense. Trip interruption coverage will pay for your one-way ticket back home and cover any prepaid accommodations and tours you’ll miss from having to shorten your trip.

Dealing with lost bags and belongings  

Travel insurance will also cover baggage loss and personal items that get damaged, stolen or lost while you’re traveling. So if you check your hiking poles and boots and they get damaged or lost during the flight, your travel insurance will reimburse you for the depreciated cost of those items.

You’ll also have coverage if someone steals your backpack while you’re sightseeing in Toronto. If you’re traveling with high-value items, make sure you have enough coverage. Many travel insurance plans have a $500 to $1,000 cap on certain items like cameras, watches and computers. Some policies also exclude coverage for smartphones.

Making plans for medical bills in Canada

Don’t be surprised if your health insurance provides little to no coverage in Canada or requires you to pay a large out-of-pocket deductible, said Carol Mueller, spokesperson for Berkshire Hathaway. Canada doesn’t accept Medicare from the U.S., and your health insurance won’t cover you unless you have global coverage. The Government of Canada will also not cover hospital and medical expenses for visitors, including American tourists.

Whether you’re planning to hit the slopes, go hiking or just take advantage of what the swanky resort you splurged on has to offer, you never know when you might fall ill or get hurt. This is where travel medical insurance can help. 

Allianz’s OneTrip Prime single-trip plan will pay up to $50,000 for your medical expenses, such as X-rays, prescriptions, doctor’s visits or a hospital stay. Other plans, such as as some in our rating of the best travel insurance for seniors cover up to $500,000.

Even if you’re up-to-date on your COVID-19 vaccines, you might still want to consider a travel insurance plan that covers COVID-related medical treatment, like those in our rating of the best COVID-19 travel insurance .

Evacuation for serious medical issues   

Travel health insurance with medical evacuation coverage is critical if you plan to travel to remote areas of Canada. The nearest trauma facility equipped to treat your medical emergency might be hundreds of miles away, requiring a medevac to get you there.

If you don’t have medical plan coverage, you could be on the hook for thousands of dollars in medical costs and private medical transportation. Travel insurance provides emergency medical evacuation coverage . 

The Allianz OneTrip Prime and Berkshire Hathaway’s ExactCare travel plans will cover up to $500,000 for emergency medical transportation and repatriation of remains. Travel Guard and Seven Corners plans will each provide up to $1 million. 

What is the cost of Canada travel insurance? 

There are several factors insurers use to determine the cost of a travel insurance policy , including age, trip cost, destination and length of the trip. In general, you can expect travel insurance to cost about 5% to 6% of your total trip cost.  

When calculating the trip expenses to insure, only include those that are nonrefundable. If your prepaid, nonrefundable flights, accommodations and tours total $5,000, you can expect to pay around $275 for travel insurance. You may pay more if you choose a plan with higher coverage limits and upgrades.

Companies use different criteria and weigh factors differently than other providers, so comparing travel insurance policy quotes can help you find the most comprehensive plan for the best price. You can use travel insurance comparison sites like Squaremouth to compare coverage limits and add-on coverage such as rental car, “cancel for any reason” and adventure sports. 

Key benefits of having travel insurance for your Canada trip  

Even though you’re not flying across an ocean, that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t buy a travel insurance plan. Some of the key benefits of having travel insurance for your Canada trip include:

• Not stressing or worrying about not having government health insurance plan coverage since you’re not a Canadian resident.
• Not losing out on your nonrefundable, prepaid trip costs if something unforeseen occurs and you have to cancel your trip or head home early.
• Knowing that if your trip is delayed or canceled, or you lose a bag or get something stolen, you have coverage to recoup at least some of your out-of-pocket costs.

The right travel plan can provide peace of mind, and many policies will pay for themselves if you need to make a claim for a covered reason.

Tips for choosing the best travel insurance provider for your Canada trip  

Comparing travel insurance companies can help you make the right choice when choosing a travel insurance product. Check customer reviews and complaints on websites like Trustpilot. Travel insurance comparison sites like Squaremouth and InsureMyTrip can also help you identify the best travel insurance company and most generous policy.

Don’t be afraid to call an insurance company to ask them “what if?” questions to ensure you’re getting the right policy. “You should feel confident in the coverage you purchase and trust you will receive the level of claims service you deserve if you need to file a claim,” said Mueller.

You should always read the fine print to know your policy’s limitations and exclusions. This includes restrictions on trip delay, cancellation and interruption benefits, and understanding what you’ll need to file a claim for baggage damage, loss, or medical care. 

Tip: Most travel insurance companies offer a 10 to 15 free look period, which allows you to review the policy and cancel it for a full refund if you decide it’s not the best choice.

Other insurance considerations for Canada 

If you’re planning to participate in adventure activities, like dogsledding in the Yukon, kayaking the Johnstone Strait to see orcas or surfing and hiking in the Pacific Rim National Park Reserve, you want to make sure you’re covered. 

World Nomads Explorer travel insurance plan covers more than 200 adventure activities. You can also get extreme sports coverage, license fees and equipment delay coverage with Berkshire Hathaway’s AdrenalineCare travel plan. Travel Guard offers an Adventure Sports Bundle optional upgrade, which waives benefit exclusions for adventure and extreme activities.

We mentioned CFAR coverage above, but some policies also offer optional “interruption for any reason” (IFAR) coverage. It works like CFAR, allowing you to end your trip early for any reason, not just those listed in your policy. Seven Corners offers a CFAR and IFAR upgrade for up to 75% of nonrefundable trip costs as long as you purchase it within 20 days of your first trip payment.

Road trips are also a popular way to see Canada’s beauty. If you plan to rent a car, it may be worth getting rental vehicle coverage if your credit card doesn’t offer it. World Nomads will cover up to $35,000 in collision damage waiver, while Travel Guard’s rental vehicle damage coverage will pay up to $50,000 in damage to your rental vehicle. Note that this coverage does not include liability insurance , if you are at fault for an accident that results in injuries or damage to others’ property. Check with your car insurance company to make sure your U.S. auto insurance coverage extends to driving in Canada. 

Travel insurance for Canada FAQs

Travel insurance is not a requirement to travel to Canada. However, travel insurance will provide travel medical insurance and emergency medical evacuation coverage, as well as benefits for lost or delayed baggage, trip delay, cancellation or interruption and sometimes missed connections. 

The average cost of travel insurance is around 5% to 6% of your travel costs to Canada. Your age, trip cost and other factors determine how much you’ll pay for travel insurance.

To find the best travel insurance for Canada, fill out a brief online form on an insurer’s website with your name, age, address and details about your trip, like the total cost and number of travelers. A travel insurance comparison site like Squaremouth allows you to fill out one application and get multiple quotes at the same time. 

The best travel insurance in Canada depends on where you’re going, what activities you’re doing and the types of coverage you need. After comparing dozens of providers, we found WorldTrips , Travel Insured and TravelSafe are among the best travel insurance companies .

Blueprint is an independent publisher and comparison service, not an investment advisor. The information provided is for educational purposes only and we encourage you to seek personalized advice from qualified professionals regarding specific financial decisions. Past performance is not indicative of future results.

Blueprint has an advertiser disclosure policy . The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Blueprint editorial staff alone. Blueprint adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

Mandy is an insurance writer who has been creating online content since 2018. Before becoming a full-time freelance writer, Mandy spent 15 years working as an insurance agent. Her work has been published in Bankrate, MoneyGeek, The Insurance Bulletin, U.S. News and more.

Alyce Meserve is an experienced insurance, personal finance and travel writer. Alyce is a licensed insurance professional in life, health and property and casualty, and holds an Executive Certificate in Financial Planning from Duke University.

Heidi Gollub is the USA TODAY Blueprint managing editor of insurance. She was previously lead editor of insurance at Forbes Advisor and led the insurance team at U.S. News & World Report as assistant managing editor of 360 Reviews. Heidi has an MBA from Emporia State University and is a licensed property and casualty insurance expert.

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The Best Travel Insurance for Canadians: Short and Long-Term Options

Wanting peace of mind from unexpected costs, we always buy travel insurance when travelling outside of Canada.

I recently spent a lot of time researching travel insurance for Canadians, primarily for an upcoming four month long multi-destination trip.

It was a much longer process than I initially expected! This post provides a shortcut to the results of my research.

While the main focus is travel insurance options for Canadians , I will also share some travel insurance basics.

I also felt it was important to list some specific travel insurance considerations for Canadian travellers that I don’t often see mentioned.

Insurance is never going to be an exciting topic but I hope I can help reduce the amount of time you spend thinking about it!

Published February 2024 . There are affiliate links in this post. If you make a purchase via one of these links, we may receive a percentage of the sale.

Travel insurance basics

Before delving into the specifics of travel insurance for Canadians, I’d like to quickly touch on some insurance basics.

If you’re new to buying travel insurance, the terminology can be a little confusing. And since there is a lot of small print involved with every policy, it’s essential to understand what you are actually purchasing.

When searching for insurance as a Canadian, you’ll soon notice two types of coverage:

• Emergency medical
• Trip cancellation, interruption, delays and lost baggage

As you may guess, the first type provides coverage for emergency medical expenses while travelling outside of Canada. I always buy a policy with at least $5 million of coverage.

Emergency medical policies usually also include coverage for medical evacuations to Canada and repatriation in case of death (the return of your remains).

The second type of insurance provides coverage in the event you need to cancel the trip, return early, or stay longer than planned.

This kind of insurance typically also includes coverage for baggage that is lost, damaged or stolen during your trip.

The cost of trip cancellation travel insurance is usually tied to the overall cost of your trip. It can be purchased separately or bundled together with an emergency medical insurance policy.

Single, annual/multiple-trip or long-term?

• Single-trip travel insurance covers one trip to a destination (or destinations) and ends when you return home
• Multi-trip travel insurance covers multiple short trips (usually 30 days or less) within 12 months. It is also referred to as an annual travel insurance policy. Multi-trip policies can be a money saver for people travelling twice or more a year
• Long-term travel insurance has a loose definition, but it generally refers to a policy that is between 30 days and 1 year in length (or longer)

Pre-existing conditions

Travel insurance providers usually exclude pre-existing conditions from coverage. 

So if you have medical conditions or are currently going through a diagnosis process, be aware that you may not be able to claim for any potential medical costs related to your pre-existing condition .

Some insurers do cover pre-existing conditions, as long as there have been no recent changes (i.e. the condition being treated and is considered stable).

Policies that cover pre-existing conditions are usually more expensive than those that do not. Always contact the insurance provider if you’re unsure.

Depending on your age, you may need to complete a medical questionnaire when applying for travel insurance.

Deductibles

A deductible is the amount of money you will have to pay before the travel insurance provider will cover the balance of the claim.

The lower the deductible on a policy, the higher the initial purchase price. The ductible is sometimes referred to as an ‘excess.’

I prefer to buy insurance with the lowest deductible possible. We are lucky and have only ever had to claim for small amounts on travel insurance (less than $1,000). I like knowing that these ‘small amounts’ are covered as they can add up, especially on longer trips.

Important considerations: travel insurance for Canadians

There are some unique considerations to keep in mind when searching for travel insurance as a Canadian.

As a relatively new Canadian citizen, I would have no idea about these issues if I had not read the small print of travel insurance policies!

Provincial healthcare eligibility

Most Canadian travel insurance policies require you to have valid provincial healthcare coverage for the length of your intended trip.

If you do not have provincial healthcare coverage and purchase a travel insurance policy that requires it, it is unlikely that you will be able to claim for emergency medical costs.

Each province and territory has different eligibility criteria for provincial healthcare coverage.

For example, British Columbia requires residents ‘ to be physically present in BC for at least six months in a calendar year. ‘ There is the possibility to extend this time, but only on a limited basis (up to 24 months once in a five-year period).

If you are Canadian but primarily resident in another country (and hence not covered by the provincial healthcare system), I would suggest researching insurance providers in the country you currently live in.

Live in the UK or EU? Consider purchasing a policy with True Traveller . To buy a policy with True Traveller, you must have a residential address and the ‘unrestricted and unconditional right of entry’ to the country you currently live in.

Starting a trip from your home province

Another important condition featured in the ‘small print’ of most Canadian travel insurance policies is the requirement to start your trip from your home province.

For most Canadian travellers this clause doesn’t present any issue. The vast majority of people start their travel trip from home.

But if you plan to visit friends or family in another province or territory before leaving on your trip, be sure to find an appropriate insurance policy for you.

This is also important if you plan to fly internationally from a different province than the one you live in, especially if you need to travel a long distance to reach the airport (or stay overnight).

If you have already left home and didn’t purchase travel insurance, look for providers that sell ‘alredy travelling’ policies.

Quebec residents

Live in Quebec? Unfortunately, there are a significant number of insurance companies that are not able to provide coverage to Quebec residents.

I believe this is related to how medical services reimbursement works in Quebec.

Notably, Quebec is not part of the reciprocal agreement allowing doctors to bill their provinces for care provided to travelling Canadians.

Options for travel insurance for Canadians

Read on for my research into the best travel insurance for Canadians.

Before purchasing a policy, please research each company to ensure that the coverage is right for you.

Read the full policy wording to make sure that you are covered for your circumstances and intended travel plans.

Credit card insurance

Leaving Canada for a short trip? Check whether your credit card has included travel insurance coverage.

Many credit cards include coverage for emergency medical services and trip cancellation/interruption/delays/baggage.

There are, however, some things to keep in mind:

• Policies usually only cover very short single trips, often 15 days or less
• In most cases, a significant (or total) portion of the trip has to be purchased with a credit card to be covered
• The coverage limits, particularly for baggage, can be low
• There may be a cap on the total number of trips allowed per year
• Pre-existing conditions are unlikely to be covered (very important!)

To expand more on the last point, bank-provided travel insurance is usually very general. It assumes that the people covered on the policy have no pre-existing medical conditions.

Needless to say, be sure to check the small print of your credit card travel insurance policy before using it to travel internationally.

Some credit card insurers allow the trip length to be extended for an additional fee.

BestQuote are travel insurance specialists, partnered with some of the largest and most reputable insurance providers in Canada.

With BestQuote, it is possible to review multiple travel insurance policies at once. This saves a ton of time and effort when searching for travel insurance as a Canadian.

We used BestQuote to research travel insurance for our four month long trip.

The emergency medical policy we eventually purchased through BestQuote is underwritten by Manulife, one of Canada’s most popular travel insurers. This was a huge selling point for me since we’ve used Manulife before (and we had a successful claim).

The policy sold through BestQuote had lower medical coverage ($5 million vs. $10 million) than the one listed on Manulife’s website, but the price was significantly lower.

Since we were going to SE Asia (where medical costs are lower), I was fine with the reduced amount.

Long-term travel insurance for Canadians

• SafetyWing – single trips up to 1 year, 4-week subscription policy also available. Can only buy after leaving Canada. Note the low amount of medical coverage.
• HeyMondo – single trips up to 1 year, policies can be started from abroad, multi-trip policies are also available for up to 60 days. They claim to offer no out-of-pocket medical expenses
• World Nomads – single trips up to 1 year (purchase multiple for a longer trip), policies can be started from abroad. More than 150+ activities are covered as standard

Other insurers offering policies for Canadians

I have ordered these travel insurance providers from low to high cost, based on our own quotes.

• TravelGuard – single trips up to 1 year, multi-trip policies also available
• TuGo – single trips up to 1 year, multi-trip policies also available
• Blue Cross – single trips up to six months, multi-trip policies also available
• Manulife – single trips up to 1 year, multi-trip policies also available
• Allianz – single trips up to 1 year, multi-trip policies also available
• BCAA – single trips up to 1 year, multi-trip policies also available (BC residents only)

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Liquidity risks at Canadian life insurance companies

Introduction.

Life insurers, like many asset managers, use fixed-income markets to implement their investment strategies. A key quality of fixed-income markets is liquidity. In a liquid market, participants can trade quickly at prevailing prices. This allows asset managers to use securities as collateral or sell them to manage their risk of not meeting short-term cash or collateral obligations, known as liquidity risk. 1

However, during periods when many market participants seek liquidity at the same time, the demand for liquidity may overwhelm the capacity or willingness of intermediaries, like bank-owned dealers, to provide it. This risk has come into focus for practitioners and policy-makers since the COVID-19 crisis, the episode of extreme market stress at the onset of the COVID‑19 pandemic in March 2020. 2 At that time, central banks around the world intervened to restore market liquidity, including by opening new emergency lending facilities for a wide range of market participants. 3

Understanding the potential behaviour of market participants during such episodes can help central bankers develop policy. The Bank of Canada has therefore been deepening its understanding of how various types of market participants manage their liquidity risks and the potential impact of their actions on fixed-income markets. This work has included analyzing mutual funds, hedge funds and pension funds. 4

We conducted two rounds of interviews with representatives from four of the largest Canadian life insurers and analyzed several data sources to investigate how life insurers’ business model results in liquidity risks and how they manage this risk. 5 Specifically, we use three data sources:

• the National Balance Sheet Accounts (NBSA) from Statistics Canada, which include aggregated balance sheet information for all Canadian life insurers
• life insurers’ investment returns from the Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions (OSFI), which include granular information on assets and derivative positions for the three largest OSFI-regulated insurance companies—Manulife, Sun Life and Canada Life
• the Market Trade Reporting System from the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization, which contains detailed, dealer-reported information about Canadian bond trades, including those involving life insurers

For clarity, we indicate on each chart that the samples of life insurance companies differ across these data sources.

In brief, we find that the two most important liquidity risks that Canadian life insurers must manage are unexpected payouts resulting from policyholder behaviour and margin calls from derivatives. We examine the effects on insurers from the COVID‑19 crisis and the period of rising interest rates in 2022, which serve as case studies in liquidity risk management. We find that the two liquidity risks did not materialize significantly in either period, which allowed life insurers to continue their typical investment pattern of purchasing long-dated corporate and provincial bonds. These purchases provide an important source of funding for Canadian bond issuers, which supports market liquidity and the real economy.

Life insurers are among the largest institutional investors in Canada

Life insurers are companies that, as the name implies, specialize in providing life insurance and related products. The sector has a small number of large companies that individually manage assets of comparable value to those of some of Canada's big pension funds. This makes life insurers among the largest institutional investors in Canada, managing around $1 trillion of financial assets associated with their Canadian business lines as of the first quarter of 2023 ( Chart 1 ). A large proportion of these assets are fixed-income securities, mainly bonds ( Chart 2 ). 6 Therefore, life insurers can alleviate or exacerbate strains on liquidity in fixed-income markets through their transactions.

Chart 1: Life insurance companies are among the largest institutional investors in Canada

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Life insurers sell financial products that are typically of two types:

• life insurance
• investments such as annuities and mutual funds

These products offer future payoffs to holders, which creates liabilities for life insurers. To meet these future obligations, insurers invest the cash they receive from their clients.

Overall, Canadian life insurers manage roughly equal proportions of assets associated with each type of product. Investment products are often managed in distinct funds, and their liquidity risks come primarily from investor redemptions. Mutual funds manage this risk in a similar way, a topic that the Bank has analyzed in the past. 7 We therefore focus our analysis on life insurance products because they present liquidity risks that are unique to life insurers.

Canadian life insurers use bonds and derivatives to match assets and liabilities

Understanding the risks inherent in life insurers’ business models is helpful for understanding their liquidity risks and how they manage them. 8 A key risk from the business model comes from the long time horizons over which life insurance contracts pay out. Insurers estimate these horizons, which can be several decades, by using actuarial modelling of policyholders’ longevity and morbidity. This means life insurance products have relatively high duration, meaning they are sensitive to changes in interest rates. This can create a significant risk for life insurers if assets and liabilities respond differently to interest rates. For example, a drop in interest rates could increase the present value of an insurer’s liabilities by more than the increase in the value of an insurer’s assets, making it more difficult for the insurer to meet its obligations to policyholders.

Life insurers choose assets with similar durations and liquidity to hedge the risks from their liabilities. This practice, known as asset-liability management (ALM), aims to immunize insurers against interest rate risk. In Canada, it also helps to satisfy regulatory capital requirements, which are established by OSFI or Autorité des marchés financiers (AMF) for insurers headquartered in Quebec. 9 ALM typically matches an insurer’s assets and liabilities to the average duration and a range of specific durations to protect against relative changes in long- and short-term interest rates. The latter practice is called key rate duration management.

Fixed-income securities are natural investments for life insurers’ ALM since these securities can have a high duration like life insurance products ( Chart 2 , panel a). Among these securities, Canadian life insurers hold primarily long-term corporate or provincial bonds ( Chart 2 , panel b). Regular cash premiums from policyholders are typically invested into these instruments as quickly as possible, making life insurers a stable source of funding for bond issuers. Provincial bonds and, to a greater degree, corporate bonds are less liquid than Government of Canada (GoC) bonds but have the benefit of higher yields. Despite the relative illiquidity of such bonds, these holdings do not expose insurers to large liquidity risks because their liabilities are also relatively illiquid, as will be explained in the section on liquidity risks .

Life insurers also invest in foreign fixed-income assets and alternative assets with high duration, such as infrastructure, real estate, private debt and private equity. These assets help insurers diversify their portfolios and can, to some extent, substitute for high-duration domestic corporate and provincial bonds, which can be in limited supply ( Chart 2 , panel a). These alternative assets also tend to offer insurers higher yields than bonds.

Chart 2: Life insurers’ assets are concentrated in fixed-income securities, most of which are corporate bonds

Composition of total assets and fixed-income assets as at the end of the first quarter of 2023

Note: Figures include the market value of life insurers’ Canadian-domiciled branches but not life insurers’ mutual funds. Sources: Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions and Bank of Canada calculations Last observation: 2023Q1

Life insurers also use derivatives to hedge exposures to risks. These exposures are from two main sources:

• residual interest rate risk
• investment assets risk

Securities and alternative assets with durations similar to those of insurance products are often in limited supply. One reason is that bond issuers rarely raise public debt with terms greater than 30 years while some insurance liabilities have longer terms. Life insurers therefore use derivatives such as interest rate swaps and bond forwards to extend the duration of their portfolios ( Chart 3 ). We find that the average term to maturity of these derivatives is typically long, ranging from 5 to just under 15 years. This means that interest rate derivatives typically carry risks comparable with those of bonds of similar terms to maturity, particularly for interest rate derivatives.

In addition to extending duration, derivatives are well suited to quickly adjust mismatches in duration between assets and liabilities because they are relatively liquid and do not require significant initial cash outlays. These quick adjustments can be needed when the values of assets and liabilities respond differently to a large change in interest rates or other economic conditions, causing their durations to become misaligned. This is called convexity risk, which investors can hedge by using certain derivatives like swaptions.

Derivatives also serve to hedge risks not related to interest rates. For example, investing in foreign assets to match domestic liabilities produces currency risk. Life insurers typically hedge this risk by using cross-currency swaps or currency forwards, which are the second-largest class of derivatives for life insurers ( Chart 3 ). Large investments in corporate bonds expose life insurers to default risk. However, credit derivatives, which provide protection against default, make up less than 1% of the notional value of derivatives held by insurers.

Chart 3: Life insurers use derivatives to hedge against interest rate and foreign exchange risks

Note: Figures include the derivative securities of life insurers’ Canadian-domiciled branches but not life insurers’ mutual funds. Sources: Office of the Superintendent of Financial Institutions and Bank of Canada calculations Last observation: 2023Q1

Life insurers face two main liquidity risks

The business model and investment strategy of Canadian life insurers give rise to two main liquidity risks:

• lower-than-expected cash inflows if a policyholder temporarily or permanently stops paying their premiums—known as a lapse
• higher-than-expected cash outflows if contracts are redeemed before maturity—known as a surrender
• margin requirements on derivatives that can increase the need to deposit cash or securities to protect a derivatives counterparty against potential losses in the event of default

Policyholders’ behaviour may trigger a need for liquidity when economic conditions stress household finances. Policyholders typically cannot lapse or surrender a policy without facing a penalty. Life insurance liabilities can therefore be considered to be relatively illiquid. However, if economic conditions cause widespread unemployment or income loss, the resulting lapses or surrenders could impose large, immediate and unexpected cash outflows on an insurer.

Margin calls on derivatives may become unexpectedly large when the underlying risk factors, such as interest rates or exchange rates, change sharply or become volatile compared with their historical levels. Life insurers are typically positioned in interest rate and foreign exchange derivatives such that a simultaneous rise in interest rates and a weakening of the Canadian dollar would increase margin requirements.

Life insurers use liquidity coverage ratios to manage risks

We heard in our interviews that Canadian life insurers manage liquidity risks by holding a buffer so that they can meet unexpected liquidity draws. Insurers often use a liquidity coverage ratio (LCR) to estimate how large the buffer should be, similar to the framework used by banks, pension funds and other asset managers. An LCR compares the value of the buffer to the total value of possible and expected liquidity draws in a stressed scenario over a given time period. While a standardized LCR is a regulatory requirement for banks, it is not for insurance companies. This means that its specifications may vary across companies. For example, some companies may use an LCR that is based on past stressed periods to prepare for unexpected liquidity needs. Others may take a broader approach that incorporates expected liquidity needs such as operational cash flows. Companies may also have different definitions of a high-quality liquid asset. A typical LCR can be represented as:

\(\displaystyle LCR\) \(\displaystyle=\, \frac{cash + high\ quality\ liquid\ assets + other\ liquidity\ sources}{surrenders + margin\ calls+other\ potential\ outflows}\) \(\displaystyle,\)

where, other liquidity sources in the numerator can include relatively illiquid or volatile assets that are discounted appropriately, committed credit lines with banks and expected cash contributions from policyholders within the LCR time horizon. Therefore, policyholder lapses affect the numerator by reducing expected cash contributions. In the denominator, other potential outflows may include life insurance claims, payments needed for maturing debt and capital needed for private assets. As with other liquidity sources, these inflows or outflows can vary across insurance companies.

Life insurers seek to always keep their LCRs substantially above one so that they can meet significant draws on their liquidity. The assets in buffers may differ across insurers but are typically composed of cash and relatively liquid securities like GoC or provincial bonds and bills, which represent about 20% of insurers’ financial assets ( Chart 4 ).

Chart 4: Liquid assets of the largest life insurers have been relatively stable over time

Responses from interviewees indicate that insurers typically use conservative assumptions to calibrate LCRs. Potential cash outflows are often projected using:

• multiple horizons, such as 10 days, 30 days or longer
• observations from past episodes of stress
• large hypothetical shocks to interest rates, credit spreads and policyholders’ mortality

Correlations between pricing factors, such as interest rates and exchange rates, are usually assumed to produce worst-case outcomes despite any historical tendencies to mitigate liquidity draws. In addition, life insurers make assumptions about the appropriate discount to apply to an asset’s value to capture the fact that prices may be worse in stressed situations. For example, they will assume that the value of provincial bonds will decline by more than the value of GoC bonds during periods of stress.

Life insurers continued purchasing bonds during recent periods of stress

The COVID‑19 crisis in 2020 and the period of rising interest rates in 2022 serve as case studies to better understand how life insurers managed their two main liquidity risks. The number of lapses and surrenders could have been unusually high during the COVID‑19 crisis because of widespread lockdowns that caused employment and income losses for millions of Canadians. Margin requirements on insurers’ derivative positions could have also been higher due to the volatility in financial markets during the COVID‑19 crisis and then again as interest rates rose in 2022.

The life insurers we spoke to indicated that they did not experience large lapses or surrenders from policyholders during the COVID‑19 crisis. Even so, they increased monitoring of their liquidity positions and tested their ability to withstand a potentially higher number of lapses, surrenders and payouts. They also extensively modelled changes in mortality rates from the COVID‑19 pandemic to prepare for a potential increase in payouts, although these did not become a significant draw on liquidity.

During the COVID‑19 crisis, total margin requirements for the three largest Canadian life insurers were not unusually large because the margins for interest rate and foreign exchange derivatives were offsetting ( Chart 5 ).

Chart 5: Market values of interest rate and foreign exchange derivatives offset during the COVID-19 crisis

Market value reflects profits and losses on derivatives contracts due to movements in their underlying price factors and is a proxy for the magnitude and direction of margin requirements. The offsetting market values observed in the first quarter of 2020—the peak of the COVID‑19 crisis—were driven by a decline in interest rates and a strengthening of the US dollar, which are typical movements in these markets during turmoil. In the first quarter of 2020, the three largest Canadian life insurers received margin on interest rate derivatives as the market value of these derivatives increased by $1.5 billion. This mitigated the effect of needing to post margin on foreign exchange derivatives, whose market value decreased by $3 billion.

Given that liquidity risks did not materialize at the peak of the crisis, life insurers continued purchasing long-term corporate and provincial bonds. They did this by rebalancing their portfolios out of short- and medium-term GoC bonds and using regular cash inflows from life insurance premiums.

We find that life insurers sold close to $2 billion worth of GoC bonds and purchased around $5 billion worth of corporate and provincial bonds ( Chart 6 , panel a). They sold bonds in the 2- and 5-year sectors and purchased bonds in the 10- and 30-year sectors ( Chart 6 , panel b).

This activity provided cash to bond sellers and issuers at a time when the demand for cash was high. 10 It also added to overall GoC bond selling during the COVID‑19 crisis when markets were stressed. However, any effect on market liquidity was likely small since around 80% of insurers’ sales of GoC bond took place between February 18 and March 6, the three weeks before the period of peak market illiquidity. 11

Chart 6: Life insurers continued purchasing bonds during peak of COVID-19 crisis

Cumulative net purchases, daily

Note: 30-year refers to any bond with a term greater than 10 years. Data presented include all Canadian life insurance companies and Canadian securities only. Sources: Market Trade Reporting System and Bank of Canada calculations Last observation: April 30, 2020

Similarly, the three largest Canadian life insurers made net purchases of $3.3 billion worth of bonds in secondary markets during the first half of 2022 as interest rates increased. This happened even though the margin requirements for interest rate and foreign exchange derivatives did not offset. During this period, the market value of these life insurers’ derivatives declined by $4.5 billion ( Chart 7 ). Even so, the larger margin requirements did not undermine the ability of the three largest Canadian life insurers to purchase bonds in secondary markets. This may be because the increase in interest rates was gradual and somewhat anticipated, allowing insurers to prepare for liquidity needs without disrupting their regular patterns of investing contributions from policyholders.

Chart 7: Life insurers’ bond purchases remained stable during the period of rising interest rates

Unlike other asset managers who broadly sold bonds during the COVID‑19 crisis, life insurers bought bonds. In addition, the period of rising interest rates in 2022 did not greatly affect life insurers’ usual investment pattern of stable bond purchases. While this behaviour could change under different market conditions, the findings nonetheless provide insights into the nature and severity of past periods of market turmoil that life insurers were able to withstand. This work deepens the Bank’s understanding of market stress and how various participants react during these periods. These insights combined with those the Bank has collected about other asset managers inform the design of the Bank’s policies and facilities.

• 1. For a discussion of pension fund liquidity management see G. Bédard-Pagé, D. Bolduc-Zuluaga, A. Demers, J.-P. Dion, M. Pandey, L. Berger-Soucy and A. Walton , “ COVID‑19 crisis: Liquidity management at Canada’s largest public pension funds ,” Bank of Canada Staff Analytical Note No. 2021-11 (May 2021).[ ← ]
• 2. For an in-depth description of the COVID‑19 crisis in Canada, see J.-S. Fontaine, C. Garriott, J. Johal, J. Lee and A. Uthemann, “ COVID‑19 Crisis: Lessons Learned for Future Policy Research ,” Bank of Canada Staff Discussion Paper No. 2021-2 (February 2021).[ ← ]
• 3. For a summary of the Bank of Canada’s liquidity facilities during the COVID crisis, see G. Johnson, “ A Review of the Bank of Canada’s Market Operations related to COVID‑19 ,” Bank of Canada Staff Discussion Paper No. 2023-6 (March 2023).[ ← ]
• 4. Recent work by the Bank of Canada on asset managers includes J. Sandhu and R. Vala, “ Do hedge funds support liquidity in the Government of Canada bond market? ” Bank of Canada Staff Analytical Note No. 2023-11 (August 2023), and G. Ouellet Leblanc and R. Shotlander, “ What COVID‑19 revealed about the resilience of bond funds ,” Bank of Canada Staff Analytical Note No. 2020-18 (August 2020).[ ← ]
• 5. We are grateful for the generous cooperation of Manulife, Sun Life, Canada Life and Industrial Alliance in this work.[ ← ]
• 6. This excludes assets managed on behalf of their clients, such as mutual funds.[ ← ]
• 7. To learn more about how mutual funds manage liquidity, see G. Ouellet Leblanc and R. Arora, “ How do Canadian Corporate Bond Mutual Funds Meet Investor Redemptions? ” Bank of Canada Staff Analytical Note No. 2018-14 (May 2018).[ ← ]
• 8. While we focus on economic considerations in this description, accounting and regulation can also influence life insurers’ investment strategies.[ ← ]
• 9. OSFI and the AMF impose harmonized capital requirements to ensure solvency for life insurance companies. Insurers regulated by OSFI must satisfy the Life Insurance Capital Adequacy Test. Insurers regulated by AMF must satisfy capital adequacy requirements for life and health insurance.[ ← ]
• 10. For more details, see Bank of Canada, " Fixed-income market liquidity ," Financial System Review—2022 (June 9, 2022).[ ← ]
• 11. For more on market illiquidity, see J.-S. Fontaine, H. Ford and A. Walton, " COVID‑19 and bond market liquidity: alert, isolation and recovery ," Staff Analytical Note No. 2020-14 (July 2020).[ ← ]

Bank of Canada staff analytical notes are short articles that focus on topical issues relevant to the current economic and financial context, produced independently from the Bank’s Governing Council. This work may support or challenge prevailing policy orthodoxy. Therefore, the views expressed in this note are solely those of the authors and may differ from official Bank of Canada views. No responsibility for them should be attributed to the Bank.

DOI: https://doi.org/10.34989/san-2024-7

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