First 7 Days Checklist

Health Insurance Basics for Toronto Newcomers

How OHIP and private insurance work for new arrivals in Ontario.

Action checklist

Complete these steps in order for the fastest, safest setup.

1OHIP 3-month wait: buy private insurance immediately (Blue Cross, Manulife)
2Register for OHIP at ServiceOntario with passport + permit + proof of address
3Employer extended benefits: confirm dental and prescription coverage on day one
4Walk-in clinics: use for GP issues while waiting for a family doctor

City context: Toronto

These steps are tailored for newcomers in Toronto. Costs, availability, and requirements may differ in other cities — switch the city selector above to switch context.

Read what residents say about First 7 Days Checklist in Toronto

First 7 Days Checklist

Health Insurance Basics for Toronto Newcomers

How OHIP and private insurance work for new arrivals in Ontario.

Action checklist

Complete these steps in order for the fastest, safest setup.

1OHIP 3-month wait: buy private insurance immediately (Blue Cross, Manulife)
2Register for OHIP at ServiceOntario with passport + permit + proof of address
3Employer extended benefits: confirm dental and prescription coverage on day one
4Walk-in clinics: use for GP issues while waiting for a family doctor

City context: Toronto

These steps are tailored for newcomers in Toronto. Costs, availability, and requirements may differ in other cities — switch the city selector above to switch context.

Read what residents say about First 7 Days Checklist in Toronto