When Indian families invite their parents or grandparents to Canada, buying insurance can feel like just another box to tick. Some believe:

• “It’s only for emergencies.”

• “We’ll buy it later if something happens.”

• “They’re here for a short trip, so it’s not needed.”

But here’s the truth: insurance in Canada isn’t optional—it’s essential from day one.

Even the healthiest visitor can face unexpected situations, and without insurance, the financial consequences can be overwhelming.

Why Insurance Must Start From the First Day

1. Canadian Healthcare Doesn’t Cover Visitors

Unlike residents, visitors don’t have access to free provincial healthcare (like OHIP in Ontario or MSP in BC). Every doctor’s visit, ambulance ride, or hospital admission must be paid out-of-pocket—starting from the moment they land.

2. Emergencies Happen Without Warning

• A parent slipping at the airport

• A child getting injured at a playground

• Jet lag–related health issues in the first 48 hours

These aren’t rare scenarios—they’re everyday risks. Insurance ensures these incidents don’t turn into massive financial setbacks.

3. The Cost of Medical Care in Canada is High

• A basic ER visit can cost $1,000–$2,000 CAD

• An overnight hospital stay can cost $3,000–$5,000 CAD per day

• More complex care, like surgery, can exceed tens of thousands of dollars

Families often underestimate how fast these costs add up.

4. Super Visa Rules Require It

For parents and grandparents applying under the Super Visa program, having $100,000 in medical insurance valid for at least one year from entry is mandatory. If the policy starts later than their arrival date, it may not meet IRCC requirements.

FAQs Indian Families Often Ask

Q: “What if my parents are only coming for 2–3 weeks?”

Even short stays carry risks. The cost of one emergency visit can exceed the premium for weeks of insurance.

Q: “Can I buy insurance after they arrive?”

Some providers allow late purchases, but coverage usually begins after a waiting period (24–48 hours) for illnesses. This means emergencies during that gap won’t be covered.

Q: “What if their trip is delayed or canceled?”

Most insurers allow you to adjust the start date—or apply for a refund—if the policy hasn’t been used and no claims are made.

Benefits of Coverage From Day One

✔ Financial Protection: Avoid sudden, overwhelming costs.

✔ Peace of Mind: Focus on family time, not hospital bills.

✔ Compliance: Meets IRCC’s Super Visa requirements.

✔ Flexibility: Some providers allow refunds or policy adjustments if travel plans change.

✔ Trust: Families know they’ve done the right thing to protect loved ones.

Real-Life Example

A family in Brampton invited their parents for a 3-week stay. On the second day, their father slipped and fractured his wrist. Without insurance, the ER visit, X-rays, and cast cost over $2,800 CAD.

With Visitors to Canada Insurance, that cost would have been fully covered—at a fraction of the price.

Final Thoughts

Whether your parents are staying for 2 weeks or 2 years, Visitors to Canada Insurance should always start from day one.

It’s not just about meeting visa requirements—it’s about protecting the people you love from unexpected stress and expenses. Because when family travels across the world to be with you, peace of mind is the greatest gift you can give them.

Disclaimer: This blog provides general information about Visitors to Canada Insurance. Coverage, eligibility, and refunds vary by provider. Always review the policy wording before making a decision.