* You may also want to check with CAA if you are eligible to purchase their insurance products.
** This list is not exhaustive and there are other companies. However, these are some of the well known companies in Canada.

SUMMARY

The term “VTC” is simply an industry shorthand for Visitors to Canada Emergency Medical Insurance. Because Canada’s universal healthcare is only for citizens and permanent residents, visitors may be ineligible to receive benefits in the healthcare system and must pay for medical care out of pocket unless they have private insurance. 

Here is some general information about how it may apply to different age groups:

1. For the Elderly (Parents & Grandparents)

For seniors, VTC insurance is most commonly associated with the Super Visa.

• The Super Visa Requirement: To get this visa, the Canadian government requires proof of VTC insurance from a Canadian company for at least one year (check for current rules and regulations that apply).

• Focus on Stability: For older travelers, the terminology shifts toward “Pre-existing Conditions” and “Stability Periods.” This ensures that if a senior has a chronic condition (like high blood pressure), they are covered as long as that condition hasn’t changed for a set period (usually 90 to 180 days). Check and verify details with the insurance company.

2. For Young People & Adults

Younger visitors use VTC for standard tourism, business trips, or while waiting for provincial health coverage to kick in.

• Newcomers/Landed Immigrants: Even if someone is moving to Toronto permanently, there may be a 3-month waiting period (check for exact rules that may apply) before they receive an OHIP (Ontario Health Insurance Plan) card. They use VTC insurance to cover that “gap.”

• Working Holiday (IEC): Young adults on “International Experience Canada” work permits are often required to have VTC insurance (check for exact rules that may apply) for the entire duration of their stay to enter the country.

3. Some Terms

If you are looking at policies, you may see these terms regardless of the traveler’s age. Check these conditions to know how you are covered in case of an emergency.

Important Distinction: If the young person is an International Student, they should also check International Student Insurance, which is a different product that often includes basic non-emergency care (like annual exams or mental health support) which standard VTC does not.