A primer on insurance for foreign visitors to Canada

Accidents occur everywhere, but they can feel particularly unsettling when you're away from home. To prevent the unexpected from spoiling your vacation, it's wise to purchase an insurance policy for foreign visitors to Canada before starting your trip. This special travel insurance protects foreigners from emergencies that may arise during their stay.

Visitors' insurance plans are ideal if you are a tourist, Super Visa applicant or a temporary resident of Canada. In addition, returning Canadian citizens and landed immigrants who are waiting for the government's insurance coverage can also purchase this type of insurance.

The federal government requires Super Visa holders to purchase insurance with at least $100,000 of coverage, with a policy term that is active for at least a year. For other categories of visitors, this type of insurance could will provide coverage in the event of unexpected (but common) emergency costs. Not only will it offer you a worry-free trip, but you can also save thousands of dollars in medical expenses.

Although types of insurance for foreign visitors to Canada vary from one policy to the other, here are several common policy inclusions:

• Medical expenses - This coverage typically applies to physician fees, hospitalization costs, diagnostic services, accidental dental care, prescribed medications and prescribed medical devices such as crutches and canes.
• Travel accidents - In the case of an accident, policy owners or beneficiaries are entitled to receive a specified amount for single or double dismemberment or death.
• Transportation expenses - In case of a medical emergency, this type covers the cost of ambulance services, repatriation to your home country and subsistence allowance.
• Travel interruptions - For visitors who have paid for their travel arrangements in advance, this coverage kicks in during unforeseen interruptions to the schedule. Some insurers will even cover the cost of accommodations when you're stranded due to an emergency.

If you are planning to visit Canada, you should check out the different policies available on the market and choose something suitable and within your budget. In addition, be mindful of the policy start date, as the policy may take effect at different times depending on whether you purchased it in Canada or prior to travelling.