A: According to the above quote from the government's website, proof of Canadian medical insurance is required. While this may change in the future to a list of approved international carriers, the guidance so far is for visitors to purchase visitors insurance from a Canadian company.

A. The Canadian insurance companies are governed by the regulations in Canada, and the government perhaps feels safer that any claims will be paid for by a company they can regulate. The government doesn't want to be the one to have to pay any claims, or sue a company that doesn't pay out a claim.

A: The expenses for hospitalization for visitors to Canada can amount to over $3,000 per day, and air ambulance charges to return you home could very easily be in the tens of thousands of dollars. We recommend $100,000 of medical insurance coverage. This will ease your financial burden due to unforeseen charges and give you a peace of mind which everyone is looking for.

A: Yes. Any person can purchase a visitors insurance policy on behalf of someone coming to Canada.

A: You can apply for a quote online by visiting our website or call our toll free number. After going through your requisites we will be able to give you a competitive rate.

A: It all depends on the pre-existing condition, and the terms and conditions of the policy. Some insurance companies offer plans that cover pre-existing conditions as long as they have been stable for a certain period of time (3 to 6 months) before departure from your home country. Sometimes, pre-existing conditions will not be covered. It is important to read your entire policy to make sure you are aware of the definitions affecting coverage, as well as the possible exclusions that may apply.

Only some of the available plans will cover pre-existing medical conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart conditions, etc. Other policies, while they do cover stable pre-existing medical conditions, use strict eligibility questions to screen out applicants (for example, no coverage available if you use an ICD (pacemaker), oral steroids for lung conditions, diagnosis of stroke, blood clots, congestive heart failure or heart murmur in past 12 months, etc.).

A: No. There is no medical exam required prior to purchase. You will have to fill the form which comprises of a few medical questions. You must answer all questions honestly, as not doing so may void (cancel) your coverage. If you have to submit a claim, the insurance company will investigate to determine if your condition was a pre-existing one, and/or whether you were honest on your application.