If you’re new to Ontario, one of the first things you should do — right after setting up your bank account — is register for OHIP, the Ontario Health Insurance Plan. This is your gateway to free healthcare in Ontario, including doctor visits, emergency services, and hospital care.
In this post, I’ll walk you through how to get OHIP as a newcomer in 2025. Whether you’re a permanent resident, international student, or work permit holder, you’ll find out what documents you need, where to apply, and how to avoid delays.
Why This Post Is Important
- ✅ Learn what documents are required to register
- ✅ Avoid common mistakes that delay your coverage
- ✅ Find out if you’re eligible for OHIP as a newcomer
1. What Is OHIP and What Does It Cover?
OHIP is Ontario’s government-funded health insurance program. Once you’re registered, you can access services like:
- Doctor visits (family doctors and walk-in clinics)
- Hospital stays and emergency care
- Medical tests and surgeries
- Pregnancy and childbirth-related care
Note that OHIP does NOT cover dental, vision (for adults), prescription drugs (except for those under 25, over 65, or with special coverage).
You'll still need private insurance for dental, eye care, and prescriptions if you don't qualify for coverage — especially during any waiting period!2. Who Is Eligible for OHIP?
You may be eligible for OHIP if you belong to one of these categories:
✅ Canadian Citizen or Permanent Resident✅ Protected Person (Refugee)
✅ Work permit holder (full-time, valid for 6 months or more)
✅ International student (with a valid study permit and registered institution)
✅ Spouse or child of someone with OHIP-eligible status
3. What Documents Do You Need?
To register for OHIP, you’ll need to bring three types of documents to a ServiceOntario centre:
🪪 1. Proof of Immigration Status
- Permanent Resident Card or Confirmation of PR
- Work Permit or Study Permit
- IMM 1000/5292/5688 forms (if applicable)
🏡 2. Proof of Residency in Ontario
- Rental agreement
- Utility bill (hydro, internet, etc.)
- Bank statement or government letter
🧾 3. Personal Identification
- Passport
- Driver’s license (if applicable)
- Any government-issued photo ID
4. Where and How to Apply
You can’t apply for OHIP online — you must visit a ServiceOntario location in person. Here’s how:
- Gather the three required documents listed above
- Find your nearest ServiceOntario centre
- Go early (morning visits = shorter wait times)
- Complete the registration form provided there
Once approved, you’ll receive a temporary paper slip first. Your official OHIP card will arrive by mail in 4–6 weeks.
Pro tip: Go early in the week (Tues/Wed mornings) and bring all documents organized in a folder.
5. Important Update: No More Waiting Period! ⚡
As of March 2020, there is NO waiting period for OHIP coverage. If you are eligible, you will have immediate health insurance coverage from the day you apply.
This means:
✅ Permanent residents get immediate coverage✅ Work permit holders get immediate coverage
✅ No need to wait 3 months anymore
However, if you're moving from another Canadian province/territory, you may still be covered under your previous provincial health insurance for up to 3 months while transitioning to OHIP.
When I moved from Quebec to Ontario about a year ago, I applied for OHIP right away. During the transition period, I kept my Quebec health card active, which gave me peace of mind knowing I was covered while waiting for my OHIP card to arrive.
If you had planned to buy temporary private health insurance for a waiting period, you may not need it anymore — but it's still a good idea to have it as backup until your OHIP card arrives in the mail (4-6 weeks).
Don’t Delay Your OHIP Registration
Applying for OHIP is one of the most important steps in settling down in Ontario. It ensures you and your family have access to healthcare without financial stress.
Make sure you gather the right documents, understand your eligibility, and apply as soon as possible. From my experience as a newcomer mom navigating walk-in clinics with three kids — having OHIP gave me peace of mind in emergencies and everyday life.
OHIP = Healthcare security in Ontario. Register early, and stay protected.Looking for more info on healthcare for newcomers? Read this post next: Healthcare System in Canada: Pros & Cons
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