How to Make a Claim on Destination Canada Insurance: Step-by-Step Guide 2026
If your parent has a medical emergency in Canada while covered by Destination Canada Visitors Plan insurance, the claim process is well-defined but requires the right documentation and timing. Here is exactly how to make a claim on Destination Canada in 2026, step by step, with the documents you need and the deadlines to watch.
Step 1: Call the Assistance Line FIRST
Before seeking non-emergency treatment, call the 24-hour Assistance and Claims Administrator (Global Excel Management):
In Canada and USA: 1-855-286-7467
Outside Canada and USA: +1-519-913-8034
Skip this call and the insurer pays only 80% of the eligible expenses. Global Excel will guide you to the closest appropriate medical provider, arrange direct billing where possible, and monitor the case throughout treatment.
Step 2: In a Serious Emergency
In a life-threatening emergency, get to a hospital immediately. It is very important that the insured or someone on their behalf contacts the Assistance and Claims Administrator within 24 hours of admission to a hospital, and before any surgery is performed. Global Excel will guide the medical emergency, help find the best care locally, and manage support throughout.
Step 3: Keep All Original Itemized Receipts
Even when Global Excel arranges direct billing, some clinics and physicians still require payment upfront. In those cases, keep all original itemized receipts you will need them for reimbursement. Digital scans (PDF or JPEG) work for online claim submission, but always keep the originals as backup.
Step 4: Submit Notice of Loss Promptly
Notice of loss should be reported as soon as reasonably possible, within 30 days of occurrence and no later than 1 year after the date of occurrence.
Step 5: Submit Written Proof of Loss
Written proof of loss should be submitted within 90 days of occurrence and no later than 1 year after. This is the formal claim submission with all documents.
How to Submit a Claim: Two Options
Option 1: Online (Fastest)
The fastest way to claim eligible emergency medical expenses paid out-of-pocket is through the secure claims portal at globalexcel.com/bhspecialty. Original receipts can be submitted electronically as PDF or JPEG files.
Option 2: By Mail
If you cannot use the online portal, contact Global Excel to receive claim forms. Once completed, mail the forms and supporting documentation to:
Berkshire Hathaway Specialty Insurance c/o Global Excel Management Inc. 73 Queen Street Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada, J1M 0C9
Documents Required for a Medical Claim
A fully completed claim form
Original, itemized bills and invoices
Proof of payment by the insured (receipts)
Proof of payment from any other insurance plan or benefit plan (if applicable)
Complete diagnosis from the attending physician
Hospital documentation confirming that treatment was appropriate and consistent with the diagnosis
Documentation stating that treatment could not be delayed until returning home without adversely affecting the insured's condition
A letter from the referring physician recommending treatment of any medical professional
Proof of accident if submitting a claim for dental expenses resulting from an accident
Proof of travel including departure date and return date
Historical medical records if requested by Global Excel
Documents Required for an Accidental Death or Dismemberment (AD&D) Claim
A fully completed claim form by the executor or executrix
A report from the police including witness statements
Coroner's report or autopsy report
Death certificate (in the event of death)
Hospital medical records or a medical certificate completed by the attending physician
Any other documents requested by Global Excel after initial review of the claim
Note: If a body is not found within 1 year of the flight or travel accident, the insurer will presume death from the injuries.
What Global Excel Does During Your Claim
Ensures appropriate level of medical care from initial contact
Refers to closest medical provider equipped to handle the emergency
Provides virtual care from qualified physicians (video or telephone) when appropriate
Monitors the case
Communicates with insured and designated family
Coordinates emergency repatriation related to the medical emergency
Direct Billing vs Reimbursement
Global Excel arranges direct billing directly with the hospital, clinic, or physician whenever possible. Some facilities still require payment upfront. When you pay upfront, keep original itemized receipts and submit through the claims portal.
Deadline Recap Do Not Miss These
Call the assistance line: within 24 hours of hospital admission (for emergencies)
Notice of loss: within 30 days (max 1 year)
Written proof of loss: within 90 days (max 1 year)
Failure to comply with the claims procedures will result in loss of rights to or reduction of benefits available under this policy.
What Happens If a Claim Is Denied
If a claim is denied, the insurer must provide reasons in writing. Common denial reasons include: skipping the assistance call, pre-existing conditions not meeting the stability period, symptoms first appearing during the waiting period, treatment not medically necessary, treatment received in the country of origin, or coverage period rules violated. If the denial is based on misunderstanding, additional documentation from your doctor can sometimes reverse it.
Related Reading
DaddySafe compares real-time Destination Canada quotes alongside Manulife, GMS, 21st Century, and RIMI side by side in 60 seconds. Same prices you would get buying direct — no phone calls, no markup.
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Rates, benefit limits, and policy terms quoted here are drawn from the official Destination Canada Rate Schedule effective July 1, 2026, the Summary of Travel Benefits (DCSBE-01.07.26), and the current policy wording (BHSI-CAD-DTGI-VTC-001-072026). Details are subject to change without notice always verify the current policy wording at the time of purchase. DaddySafe is a Canadian online insurance comparison platform operated by Immunis Financial Brokers Inc., a licensed Canadian brokerage.
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