Insurance and Benefits for New Canada PR Visa Holders
Let’s try to understand the Insurance and Benefits for a new Permanent Resident (PR) in Canada as the same is important. Here’s an overview of coverage and support available to you and your family.
Coverage for Your Family
Your insurance policy can cover your spouse or partner and children under 19 years old. Additionally, there are specific insurance options available for students, tenants, visitors, and travelers.
Canada Child Benefit (CCB)
The Canada Child Benefit (CCB) is administered by the Canada Revenue Agency (CRA). This tax-free monthly payment assists eligible families with raising children under 18. The CCB may include the Child Disability Benefit and related provincial programs.
Starting in July 2023, Budget 2023 introduced a permanent 10% increase to the BC Family Benefit. Parents will receive up to $1,750 for their first child, $1,100 for the second, and $900 for each additional child annually. Single parents can receive an extra $500 on top of this increase.
Health Insurance
It is highly recommended that international tourists and PR holders obtain Travel Medical Insurance before arriving in Canada. Healthcare can be expensive without proper insurance coverage, especially for new PR holders.
Medical Insurance (Public Health Insurance)
Canada offers a comprehensive public healthcare system. As a Canadian citizen or PR, you can apply for public health insurance, which covers most healthcare services. However, if you don’t have a government health card, you may not receive free emergency medical services.
Employment Insurance (EI)
Employment Insurance (EI) provides financial assistance to individuals who lose their jobs through no fault of their own. It includes various benefits:
- Regular benefits
- Parental benefits
- Sickness benefits
- Compassionate care benefits
- Benefits for self-employed people
- Maternity and parental benefits
- Family Caregiver Benefits for adults and children
Additionally, an enhanced Canada Workers Benefit offers up to $2,461 for families and $1,428 for singles without children in 2023. Eligible families can also receive up to $1,300 per child for dental expenses over two years.
For more details on your eligibility and available benefits, consult our immigration consultants. They can provide personalized information and guidance.