Compulsory travel insurance to Canada

When entering Canada on a Working Holiday Visa through the International Experience Canada (IEC) program, it is mandatory to have travel insurance that covers the entire duration of your stay. This insurance must include coverage for healthcare, hospitalization, and repatriation (returning you home in case of illness or injury). The Canadian immigration authorities may shorten your visa if your insurance coverage does not last the full length of your stay, so it’s crucial to have a policy that covers the entire duration of your visa, which is typically up to one year.

Popular Travel Insurance Companies for Working Holiday Visas in Canada

1. World Nomads (worldnomads.com)

   • Approximate Price: USD $400 - $600 for one year of coverage.

   • Key Features: World Nomads is a well-known option for travelers and backpackers. It offers comprehensive coverage, including medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and coverage for adventurous activities like skiing and snowboarding.

2. SafetyWing (safetywing.com)

   • Approximate Price: USD $40 - $60 per month (around USD $480 - $720 for one year).

   • Key Features: SafetyWing is an affordable, flexible option with policies that can be renewed monthly. It provides medical coverage for long-term travelers, including those on working holidays.

3. True Traveller (truetraveller.com)

   • Approximate Price: GBP £300 - £500 (around USD $380 - $640) for one year of coverage.

   • Key Features: True Traveller is a popular choice for UK and EU citizens. It offers customizable policies with options for extreme sports and work-related activities.

4. Allianz Global Assistance (allianztravelinsurance.com)

   • Approximate Price: CAD $500 - $800 for one year of coverage.

   • Key Features: Allianz provides comprehensive travel insurance with worldwide coverage. It’s a reputable choice for medical emergencies, trip interruptions, and more.

5. VisitorsCoverage (visitorscoverage.com)

   • Approximate Price: USD $400 - $700 for one year of coverage.

   • Key Features: VisitorsCoverage specializes in insurance for international visitors and offers flexible plans with extensive medical coverage tailored for working holiday participants.

Importance of Full Coverage for the Entire Stay

It’s vital to ensure your travel insurance policy covers the entire duration of your stay in Canada. If your insurance only lasts for part of your visa’s duration (e.g., 6 months instead of 12), Canadian immigration officers have the right to limit your visa’s validity to match the insurance period. This means that if you only purchase six months of coverage, your visa could be shortened to six months instead of the full year.

Conclusion

Travel insurance is a compulsory requirement for entering Canada on a Working Holiday Visa. The average cost for one year of coverage ranges from around USD $400 to $800, depending on the provider and the level of coverage. It’s essential to choose a policy that covers you for your entire stay to avoid any issues with your visa validity. Research the different options and consider your needs, including coverage for medical expenses, repatriation, and any adventurous activities you plan to undertake. Having reliable insurance not only fulfills visa requirements but also provides peace of mind during your Canadian adventure.