Finding medical care in Vancouver

During your time in Vancouver, you might need to see a doctor, dentist or any other health professional.

First, remember that anyone on an IEC permit must have insurance that lasts for the duration of their stay and covers medical care, hospitalisation and repatriation. This is because temporary residents will not have the same rights in accessing subsidised health care as permanent residents and Canadian citizens.

If you live in BC for more than six months in a year, you may be eligible to sign up for the BC Medical Services Plan (MSP), even on a Working Holiday program.

If you are more comfortable using French than English, the French-speaking Services of the Provincial Health Authority can help guide you in French and provide interpretation. On the website, you will find explanatory brochures, particularly for people arriving from Quebec and settling in British Columbia, as the health systems are different.

Finally, to avoid having to pay a fortune to the hospital for a health problem that does not require hospitalisation, research to see if there is a walk-in clinic near you.