Travel insurance for Canada
The Rocky Mountains, Niagara Falls, vast national parks and cosmopolitan cities like Toronto, Montreal and Quebec: Canada is hugely attractive to all kinds of holidaymakers. However, holidays, let alone emergencies, in Canada don’t come cheap, so a good travel insurance policy is vital.
To find out more about all the options for holiday insurance to Canada from the UK, consult our travel insurance page or contact one of our experts on 0800 033 4902, who will be happy to guide you to the best policy for your needs. Alternatively, you can get a quote online in just minutes by clicking below.
Cover for medical conditions
The overwhelming majority of hospitals and medical practices in Canada are privately run and you can rest assured that you will receive high quality treatment in Canada.
Medicare, Canada’s public health insurance service affords Canadian residents low-cost access to doctors and health practitioners but visitors are unfortunately not eligible for the same benefits it’s very important to get insured for medical and other emergencies.
Canada travel information
Health
For emergency medical assistance, dial 911 and ask for an ambulance. Remember to contact your travel insurance company as soon as you get to the medical facility for your treatment. Walk-in clinics are also available throughout the country and appointments are not required beforehand.
Vaccinations
Other than your usual boosters which need to be up to date, no other vaccinations are required for your trip to Canada. Depending on if you will be mixing with ordinary locals in overcrowded living conditions, you might like to consider taking the diphtheria and tetanus vaccines. Check with your doctor whether these are necessary for your visit.
The British government’s FCO pages give more information on health matters in Canada,
Visas
Canada’s entry requirements are similar to the USA’s in many ways. Your passport will need to be valid for the proposed duration of your stay, if your passport has less than 6 months validity remaining when you arrive in Canada it may take longer to pass through immigration control.
Importantly, you will need to apply online for an Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ETSA) at least 72 hours before travel.
Safety
The FCO pages warn about petty crime on the streets and in tourist areas. It’s best to leave copies of important documents in the hotel safe or with friends or family back home. If you need the police, phone 911 or 0 to be connected to emergency services. If you lose your passport, contact the nearest British Consulate immediately.
Driving
You can hire and drive a car using a full UK driving licence which you must carry with you when driving in Canada.
Winter driving conditions can become extreme so it’s important to monitor local weather forecasts before taking to the wheel in winter. Snow tyres are often required in some of the snowiest provinces.
Should you have an accident involving another vehicle or a pedestrian, it is a serious crime to leave the scene of the accident. Call 911 for the police or an ambulance if necessary.
Currency
- Canadian currency is Canadian Dollars
- Exchanging currency is straightforward, particularly if you are changing from US to Canadian Dollars
- ATMs generally offer the best exchange rates. Credit cards are widely accepted throughout Canada but bear in mind you will be charged both interest and a transaction fee on every withdrawal or payment you make. Visa and MasterCard are most commonly accepted.
- Travellers cheques are accepted at most banks but expect to pay service charges ranging from 1% to 4%
- Banking hours in Canada are Monday to Friday from 9.30am to 4.30pm, although some banks and branches may be open later and even on Saturdays in busy areas.
Travel Insurance Canada
For your Canada travel insurance quote, simply apply online or speak to one of our travel insurance experts on 0800 033 4902.
