The United States is one of the most popular destinations for travelers from Canada, with over 20 to 25 million Canadian visitors per year.
Whether traveling for leisure, business, to see family and friends, or escape the snow, one important thing that travelers to the US from Canada should consider is health coverage.
Travel insurance for Canadians in the US can help protect travelers from unforeseen medical events, especially in a country with no universal healthcare and extremely high medical costs.
Does Canadian Health Insurance Cover You Abroad?
While Canada boasts a publicly funded universal healthcare system to provide medical services to Canadian residents, unfortunately this coverage does not extend beyond Canada’s borders.
When traveling outside of Canada, Canadian residents will not be covered by their home country’s universal healthcare. Additionally, the United States does not have such a program, meaning medical expenses are paid for out-of-pocket or through insurance.
Why Do Canadians Need Travel Insurance for the US?
Traveling to the United States without health coverage can be very risky, as the US has some of the highest medical costs in the world. Without proper coverage, a medical emergency can quickly add up to thousands of dollars, which can be financially devastating and stressful for travelers.
With travel insurance for the US, Canadians can have peace of mind that they have the vital medical coverage they need if an injury or illness were to occur during their travels which required emergency care.
What Is Travel Insurance for the US From Canada?
Travel medical insurance for travelers to the United States from Canada offers coverage for emergency medical expenses in the event of an unexpected illness or injury during one’s travels.
Travel medical insurance can include coverage for:
- Hospitalization and surgery
- Urgent care
- Prescription medication
- Emergency medical evacuation
- Repatriation of remains
- Acute onset of pre-existing conditions (depending on the plan, exclusions and age limitations may apply)
- Accidental death & dismemberment
- Lost luggage
- Lost or stolen passport
Key Factors to Consider When Choosing Travel Insurance for US
When selecting a travel insurance plan for the United States, having good coverage and benefits are important to ensure the ultimate protection for your trip.
- Your age - Older travelers are encouraged to select a plan’s highest available policy maximum for their age since the risk of injury or illness is higher. Some plans may restrict policy maximums for travelers over a certain age.
- Pre-existing conditions - If you are traveling with pre-existing conditions, you may want to consider getting a plan that covers the worsening of pre-existing conditions or the acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
- Comprehensive vs limited coverage plans - When selecting a travel medical insurance plan, you may find that there are comprehensive and limited (or fixed benefit) plans available. Comprehensive plans offer better overall coverage and less potential out-of-pocket costs than limited plans.
- Add-on coverage - Depending on your travel plans, you may want to look into which plans offer additional riders such as coverage for adventure sports.
A good plan will offer a balance between cost and the coverage you need to be fully protected during your travels.
How Much Does US Travel Insurance Cost for Canadians?
The cost of US travel insurance from Canada will depend on a few factors, including your age, the plan you select, the length of your trip, policy maximum, deductible, and more.
For example, a 14 day trip for a 35 year old traveling from Canada to the United States with a $100,000 coverage limit and $250 deductible can cost around $35-$40 for a comprehensive travel medical insurance plan.
For a 65 year old traveling from Canada to the United States for 14 days, a comprehensive travel medical insurance plan with a $100,000 coverage limit and $250 deductible can cost around $100-$120.
For a more accurate estimate of the cost of travel insurance for your individual trip, get a quote through VisitorsCoverage.
Best US Travel Insurance for Canadians
The following travel medical insurance plans are best suited for visitors to the United States from Canada.
Why Purchase Travel Insurance from a US Provider
Purchasing your travel insurance through a US provider can give you a number of added benefits, including:
- Access to a PPO network which means preferred pricing
- The option for direct billing/cashless pay
- Your insurance will be recognizable by major healthcare providers
- Easier communication with assistance while in the US
A US-based travel insurance plan will be the easiest to use and work with during your trip. Plus, purchasing through VisitorsCoverage gives you access to excellent customer service, claims assistance, and the best top-rated travel insurance plans on the market.
Secure Protection Through VisitorsCoverage!
Don’t travel to the United States without the vital protection against the unexpected. US travel insurance can give you the security and reassurance you need to fully enjoy your journey.
Compare our available US travel insurance plans for Canadians or reach out to our Customer Success Team for friendly assistance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do Canadians need travel insurance for the United States?
Yes, Canadians should purchase travel insurance before visiting the United States. Healthcare costs in the US can be extremely high, and Canadian provincial health plans likely won’t cover you abroad.
How much does travel insurance for the US cost for Canadians?
The cost of travel insurance depends on factors like age, length of stay, and coverage type. It’s best to get a quote with your specific details and travel dates for a more accurate cost estimate.
What does US travel insurance for Canadians cover?
Travel insurance typically covers emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, lost baggage, emergency evacuation, and repatriation of remains.
Can Canadians get coverage for pre-existing medical conditions when traveling to the US?
There are specific travel medical insurance plans that do offer some limited coverage for the pre-existing conditions and the acute onset of pre-existing conditions. It’s important to read a policy’s fine print to understand pre-existing conditions coverage.
How do I choose the best travel insurance for the United States?
To choose the best travel insurance, compare policies based on coverage limits, exclusions, cost, and the insurer's reputation. Look for a policy that matches your travel needs and budget.
What happens if I need medical assistance in the United States?
If you need emergency medical assistance in the US, it is important to first determine how severe your medical event is and seek medical care appropriately, such as visiting the emergency room or urgent care. You should also contact your insurer to let them know of your medical event as some medical treatments may need to be precertified.
Can I buy travel insurance for the US after arriving there?
Yes, you can buy travel insurance after already arriving in the United States. However, keep in mind that coverage typically doesn’t go into effect until the following day after purchasing your policy, so it is best to purchase before your trip.
What is not covered by US travel insurance for Canadians?
Common exclusions include high-risk activities (like extreme sports), pre-existing conditions, and routine medical care. Always review your policy to understand exclusions.
How much travel insurance coverage do I need for a trip to the United States?
Considering the high cost of healthcare in the US, it's advisable to have at least $100,000 in emergency medical coverage. Higher coverage limits provide added peace of mind for unexpected events.
