Two young travellers in Canada faced with €45,000 in medical bills each

Going to Canada (for a working holiday, studies, an internship, a job…) is an incredible adventure, but like any move abroad, it comes with its share of the unexpected. And when a health problem arises, it can quickly cost a fortune. Welcome to North America!

Numerous major claims have handled by Globe WHV by ACS, our trusted insurance partner since 2005, and the amounts are staggering.

Two very expensive hospitalizations

Here are two real cases handled in 2025 by ACS that show just how crucial it is to be well insured.

1. A thigh abscess: €47,000

A working holiday maker was hospitalized due to a thigh abscess. This type of infection may seem minor, but the hospitalization and follow-up care resulted in €47,000 in medical costs. And the figure may grow even larger, as additional treatments are expected.

2. Salmonella infection: €55,000

In another case, food poisoning led to a salmonella infection. The tests, treatment, and hospitalization amounted to €55,000 this working holiday maker.

Both of these expenses were covered by the Globe WHV insurance. Fortunately, these travelers were properly insured.

“This type of claim, which was rare just three years ago, has now become common. It really shows just how high healthcare costs are in Canada.”
— Sandra, Globe WHV (ACS)

The cost of healthcare in Canada has always been high for those not covered by the local public system. But in recent years, medical bills exceeding €40,000–€50,000 have become much more common. A hospitalization, even for a relatively ordinary issue, can lead to enormous expenses.

Get insurance to travel with peace of mind

These two recent stories are important reminders: no one expects to get sick during a working holiday, but it can happen. And in a country like Canada, without coverage, the financial consequences can be financially devastating.

Why choose ACS Globe WHV as your insurer?

ACS is one of the long-standing trusted partners of pvtistes.net. The Globe WHV insurance is designed for young people on an IEC permit, and is tailored to real-life situations. It covers:

100% of medical and hospitalization costs, with zero deductible/excess
Medical emergencies
Repatriation
24/7 assistance
And much more

Most importantly, in case of hospitalization due to a covered illness or accident, you don’t need to front any of the medical bill if their services are notified in the beginning.

ACS’s popular Globe WHV insurance is especially designed for working holiday makers, but they offer different insurance for other profiles as well, including those going to Canada for studies, work, or vacation. Their solutions are adapted to your situation!