How to register for OHIP when moving to Ontario?

What is the OHIP?

OHIP stands for the Ontario Health Insurance Plan. It is Ontario's very own health care plan, paid for by the province. It covers a range of health services like appointments with a family doctor, visits to walk-in clinics, emergency rooms, medical tests, and surgeries.

Who is eligible for the OHIP

• To qualify for the OHIP, an individual must meet the following conditions. You must:

• Be in Ontario physically for 153 days out of 12 months

• Be in Ontario physically for at least 153 days of the first 183 days immediately after you begin living in the province

• Make Ontario your primary residency

Additionally, you must also meet any 1 of the following conditions. You must either:

• Be a Canadian citizen

• Be an Indigenous person

• Be a permanent resident

• Be applying for a permanent residency status in Canada

• Be in Ontario on a valid work permit and working full-time in the province

• Be in Ontario on a valid work permit under the federal Live-in Caregiver Program

• Be in Ontario on a valid work permit under the federal Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program

• Be a convention refugee or have other protected status

• Have a Temporary Resident Permit or,

• Be a Clergy member who can legally stay and minister full-time in Ontario for at least 6 months.

How do you get registered for the OHIP when moving to Ontario?

As listed under the eligibility conditions above, you can apply for an OHIP as a citizen or permanent/temporary resident moving into the province.

The process starts with downloading the OHIP registration form at their website and submitting it in person at a ServiceOntarion center along with the following documents:

• A completed Registration form for the Ontario Health Insurance Coverage

• Three separate documents from the List of qualifying identification documents:

  • An original document that proves your Canadian citizenship or eligible immigration status

  • A document that proves your residency in Ontario

  • An original document that proves your identity

Once your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation letter, and your OHIP card will be mailed to you. The OHIP card, also known as the health card, contains your personal health number and should be presented whenever you visit a healthcare provider.

Conclusion

Registering for OHIP is vital for anyone moving to Ontario, ensuring access to essential healthcare services. Our guide will set you up with the basics to integrate smoothly into Ontario's healthcare system and guarantee your peace of mind as you begin your life in Ontario. For further details and assistance, refer to the Ontario Ministry of Health website.