Written by
John Spencer
John Spencer is the founder of Compare Expat Plans, where he focuses on helping people compare health plans for life abroad. He emphasizes clear information, neutral analysis, and practical decision support.
SafetyWing in Canada
SafetyWing is a popular choice for covering Canada's 3-month provincial healthcare waiting period. At $45-70/month, it provides affordable emergency coverage while you wait for provincial eligibility.
However, Canada's high healthcare costs make understanding SafetyWing's limitations essential. It's travel medical insurance, not comprehensive health coverage.
$45/mo
Starting price
$250K
Maximum coverage
$250
Deductible
Quick Coverage for the Waiting Period
SafetyWing is easy to purchase and starts immediately.
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What SafetyWing Covers
SafetyWing Nomad Insurance includes:
- Emergency medical: Up to $250,000
- Hospital stays: Covered after $250 deductible
- Emergency dental: Pain relief and emergency care
- Medical evacuation: $100,000
- Trip interruption: Some coverage included
How It Works in Canada
SafetyWing operates on a reimbursement basis. You pay for care upfront and submit claims for reimbursement. Given Canada's costs, this means potentially significant out-of-pocket expenses before reimbursement.
Limitations
What SafetyWing Doesn't Cover
- Pre-existing conditions: Completely excluded
- Routine care: Checkups, preventive care not covered
- Mental health: Not covered
- Maternity: Not covered (except emergency complications)
- Chronic conditions: Ongoing treatment not covered
- Dental (routine): Not covered
Canada Cost Context
Canada's healthcare costs make SafetyWing's limitations significant:
- ER visit: $500-1,500 out of pocket
- Hospital day: $1,000-3,000 out of pocket
- Specialist: $200-500 out of pocket
SafetyWing is for emergencies only. Routine care will cost you full price.
For the Waiting Period
SafetyWing works as a budget option for the 3-month provincial healthcare waiting period if you're:
- Young and healthy
- Have no pre-existing conditions
- Comfortable with emergency-only coverage
- Willing to pay out-of-pocket for routine care
Consider More Comprehensive Options
For the waiting period, some Canadian insurers offer specific "waiting period" plans with broader coverage. If you have health concerns or want peace of mind, these may be worth the extra cost.
Plans and Pricing
| Plan | Coverage | Price |
|---|---|---|
| Nomad Insurance | Travel medical | $45-70/mo |
| Remote Health | Health insurance | $200-280/mo |
Nomad Insurance vs Remote Health
- Nomad Insurance ($45/mo): Travel medical. Suitable for waiting period if healthy.
- Remote Health ($200+/mo): Actual health insurance. Better for longer stays or ongoing coverage needs.
Who Should Choose SafetyWing in Canada
Good Fit
- Healthy new arrivals (waiting period)
- Short-term visitors
- Budget-conscious travelers
- Those with no pre-existing conditions
- Young, healthy individuals
Consider Alternatives
- Anyone with health conditions
- Those needing mental health care
- Families with children
- Long-term residents
- Those uncomfortable with gaps
The Bottom Line
SafetyWing works for healthy individuals covering the waiting period on a budget. For longer stays or health concerns, invest in comprehensive international health insurance.
Need More Than SafetyWing?
Compare comprehensive international health insurance for Canada.
See All OptionsWe may earn a commission when you apply through our links. This does not affect our recommendations.
Disclaimer: SafetyWing Nomad Insurance is travel medical insurance with limitations. Canada's high healthcare costs mean out-of-pocket expenses can be significant.
