If you are a work permit holder in Ontario, you may be eligible for Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) coverage, depending on your residency status and working conditions. At Unitia Immigration, we specialize in helping newcomers navigate Canadian immigration policies and healthcare options. In this article, we’ll break down everything you need to know about OHIP coverage for work permit holders, including eligibility criteria, covered services, and the application process.
What is OHIP?
The Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP) is the provincial healthcare system that provides essential medical services, including:
- Appointments with family doctors
- Walk-in clinic visits
- Emergency room visits
- Medical tests
- Surgeries
At Unitia Immigration, we understand how important it is to have access to reliable healthcare during your stay in Ontario. As a work permit holder, understanding your eligibility for OHIP and how to apply can ensure you stay protected while living and working in the province.
Am I Eligible for OHIP Coverage as a Work Permit Holder?
To qualify for OHIP as a work permit holder in Ontario, you must meet certain residency and working status requirements. The eligibility criteria are as follows:
- Residency Requirement
You must be physically present in Ontario for at least 153 days in any 12-month period. - Work Permit Requirements
Additionally, you need to meet one of the following conditions:- You must hold a valid work permit and have been working full-time for an Ontario employer for at least six months.
- If you’re in Ontario under the Live-In Caregiver Program or Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program, you may be eligible for OHIP.
- If you’ve applied for permanent residency (PR) with Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and your application has been acknowledged and processed, you can apply for OHIP coverage even before receiving your PR status.
Note: If your work permit has expired, you can still apply for OHIP as long as you’ve applied for an extension or a new work permit before the expiration date. Your healthcare coverage will remain intact while your application is under review.
What Services Does OHIP Cover?
OHIP provides a wide range of medical services to eligible residents, including:
- Doctor’s Visits: Fully covered for medically necessary consultations, including virtual visits and walk-in clinics.
- Hospital Care: Covers services like nursing, doctor visits, diagnostic tests, medications, and accommodation (basic hospital rooms).
- Laboratory Tests: Medically necessary tests in hospitals or community labs are fully covered.
- Abortions and Dental Surgery (In-Hospital): OHIP covers medically necessary procedures performed in hospitals, including surgical abortions and dental surgery when required for health reasons.
How to Apply for OHIP
To apply for OHIP as a work permit holder, follow these steps:
- Visit a ServiceOntario Centre
You must apply in person at a ServiceOntario center. Use the ServiceOntario locator tool to find the nearest office. - Required Documents
You will need the following documents:- Completed OHIP application form
- Proof of OHIP-eligible immigration status: Your work permit or Verification of Status (IMM 5716 or IMM 5715).
- Proof of Ontario residency: Valid Ontario Driver’s License, utility bills, or employment records.
- Proof of identity: Valid passport, driver’s license, or other government-issued identification.
Once your application is approved, you’ll receive an Ontario Health Card, which must be presented when accessing healthcare services.
What is Covered by OHIP?
The following services are generally covered by OHIP:
| Service | Covered by OHIP | Details |
|---|---|---|
| Doctor’s Visits | Yes | Medically necessary visits, including virtual consultations. |
| Hospital Care | Yes | Doctor/nurse services, in-patient medications, diagnostic tests, and accommodation (basic rooms only). |
| Laboratory Tests | Yes | Medically necessary tests in hospitals or community labs. |
| Abortions | Yes | Includes surgical procedures and medical abortion with a prescription. |
| Dental Surgery (In-Hospital) | Yes | Covers necessary surgeries like fracture repair, tumor removal, and more. |
What is Not Covered by OHIP?
While OHIP covers many healthcare services, there are certain medical services that are not included, such as:
- Prescription drugs (unless you are a senior or qualify for the Ontario Drug Benefit Program).
- Cosmetic procedures or surgeries not deemed medically necessary.
- Dental services (outside of hospital care for serious medical conditions).
- Optometry (for adults, eye exams are only covered for those under 20 or over 65).
Conclusion
As a work permit holder in Ontario, you may be eligible for OHIP coverage if you meet the provincial residency and work criteria. At Unitia Immigration, we are committed to helping you understand the full scope of services available to you and guiding you through the process of applying for OHIP. If you’re unsure about your eligibility or need help with your immigration status, contact Unitia Immigration today to speak with one of our experts.
For more information on immigration matters, healthcare, and settlement in Ontario, be sure to visit our official website or get in touch with our team for personalized assistance.
