The Canadian healthcare system offers residents and work permit holders access to high-quality and publicly-funded healthcare, which is managed on a provincial level. 

Expats with permanent residency in Vancouver qualify for this scheme, called the British Columbia Medical Service Plan (MSP), and should submit their paperwork to sign up for it as soon as possible. The MSP allows free access to specialists, general practitioners and all necessary surgeries.

Getting public health insurance in Vancouver

Expats moving to Vancouver can apply for the MSP in person, online or by mail using their permit, proof of identification and address. There is a three-month waiting period between application and when coverage begins, and during this time it’s crucial that expats take out personal or employer-sponsored private health insurance. Expats will become eligible to use the MSP once they receive their CareCard with their Personal Health Number. 

The MSP provides limited coverage for emergencies outside British Columbia, and members are fully liable for the costs of medical procedures and prescriptions obtained outside the province. Expats who don’t qualify for the state-sponsored health insurance plan and those travelling outside British Columbia should be sure to secure private health insurance for the duration of their stay. 

Expats should note that the MSP does not cover dental, eye care, prescription medicines or extended health services, such as ambulances. It is therefore necessary to maintain private coverage, which is usually employer-sponsored.

Hospitals in Vancouver

St Paul’s Hospital

Website: www.providencehealthcare.org
Address: 1081 Burrard Street Vancouver, BC, V6Z 1Y6

BC Children’s Hospital

Website: www.bcchildrens.ca
Address: 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1

BC Women’s Hospital and Health Centre

Website: www.bcwomens.ca
Address: 4500 Oak Street, Vancouver, BC, V6H 3N1

Mount Saint Joseph’s Hospital

Website: www.providencehealthcare.org
Address: 3080 Prince Edward Street, Vancouver, BC, V5T 3N4

Further reading

►Getting Around Vancouver provides an overview of transport options in the city

►Areas and Suburbs gives an insight into neighbourhoods in Vancouver

Expat Experiences

"Vancouver’s healthcare is world class. Residents of British Columbia have a BC Service Card that provides medical coverage at any hospital in the city. Residents pay a reduced fee for healthcare service that is just a fraction of what similar healthcare in the United States would cost. Sometimes people complain about the healthcare (long waits for non-emergency surgeries) –however, the system has many positives and relieves the stress of millions of people in the province."

Read more about American expat Cyrus's experiences in Vancouver.

Are you an expat living in Vancouver?

Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Vancouver. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.

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