If you’ve recently arrived in Ontario, Canada on a work permit, you’re probably wondering: “Do I get free healthcare? How do I apply for OHIP?” The good news is that most workers with a valid work permit can qualify for OHIP, Ontario’s public health insurance plan.
This post will guide you through everything you need to know about getting OHIP after getting a work permit—including who qualifies, how to apply, and what’s covered.
✅ What Is OHIP?
OHIP stands for Ontario Health Insurance Plan. It’s a government-funded health insurance program that pays for many healthcare services, including:
- Doctor visits
- Hospital stays
- Emergency care
- Medical tests (X-rays, blood work)
- Surgeries and treatments
With OHIP, you don’t need to pay out-of-pocket for these basic medical services if you’re covered.
👨💼 Who Is Eligible for OHIP With a Work Permit?
You may be eligible for OHIP if:
- You have a valid work permit that is valid for at least six months, and
- You are working full-time for an Ontario-based employer, and
- Your place of work is in Ontario.
You must also be physically present in Ontario for at least 153 days in a 12-month period to keep your coverage.
📑 Documents You Need to Apply
To apply for OHIP, you need three types of documents:
1. Proof of Identity
- Passport
- Canadian driver’s license
- Canadian government photo ID
2. Proof of Residency in Ontario
- Lease agreement
- Utility bill (hydro, internet, water)
- Bank statement with your Ontario address
3. Proof of Work Permit and Employment
- Valid work permit (minimum 6 months)
- Employment letter stating full-time position
- Pay stubs (optional but helpful)
🏥 Where and How to Apply
You need to apply in person at a ServiceOntario center.
Steps:
- Find a nearby ServiceOntario location.
- Bring all your required documents.
- Fill out the OHIP registration form (Form 0265-82) at the center.
- Submit your application and wait for confirmation.
After approval, you’ll receive a green OHIP card in the mail within 4–6 weeks.
⏳ Is There a Waiting Period?
Good news: As of March 2020, the 3-month waiting period has been waived in Ontario. That means your OHIP starts right away after approval, as long as you’re eligible.
💡 Tip: Get Private Health Insurance While You Wait
Even though there may not be a waiting period, delays can still happen. It’s a smart idea to buy private health insurance for the first 1–2 months, just in case.
💳 What Your OHIP Card Covers
Here are the healthcare services covered by OHIP:
- Visits to family doctors and specialists
- Emergency room care
- Hospital stays and surgeries
- Blood tests and diagnostic scans (X-rays, ultrasounds)
- Maternity care and childbirth
- Some optometry services (for certain ages)
- Limited podiatry and physiotherapy services
❌ What OHIP Does Not Cover
OHIP does not cover everything. You may still need private or employer-based insurance for:
- Prescription medications (unless you qualify for Ontario Drug Benefit)
- Dental care
- Eyeglasses and contact lenses
- Cosmetic surgery
- Ambulance fees (partial coverage)
💡 Pro Tip: Ask your employer if your job comes with extended health benefits to cover these gaps.
🏡 What If Your Family Is With You?
Your spouse and dependent children may also qualify for OHIP if they are listed as dependents on your work permit or have their own valid permits.
Make sure they:
- Also live in Ontario
- Provide proof of residency and identity
You can apply for their OHIP at the same time as yours.
🔄 What Happens If You Switch Jobs or Permits?
If you change employers or apply for permanent residence:
- Your OHIP stays valid as long as you remain in Ontario and your immigration status is legal.
- When your work permit is renewed, update your information at ServiceOntario.
Always make sure there is no gap in your work permit validity. Even a one-day lapse may cause your OHIP to be suspended.
Transitioning to PR? OHIP Still Covers You
If you move from a work permit to permanent residency (PR), you continue to be covered by OHIP. Just show your Confirmation of Permanent Residence and update your details at ServiceOntario.
📞 OHIP Contact Info & Support
If you have questions or need help, contact:
- ServiceOntario INFOline: 1-866-532-3161
- Visit: www.ontario.ca/health
🎯 Final Tips to Remember
✅ Apply for OHIP as soon as you start working in Ontario
✅ Keep copies of all your documents
✅ Update your address and status changes with ServiceOntario
✅ Carry your OHIP card whenever you visit a doctor or hospital
📌 Conclusion: OHIP Is a Big Benefit for New Workers in Ontario
Getting OHIP after arriving in Ontario on a work permit is one of the most important steps you can take to protect your health and finances. With your OHIP card, you can access Canada’s excellent public healthcare system without paying out-of-pocket for most basic services.
It’s fast, free, and fairly simple—so don’t wait.