Health Insurance for Temporary Foreign Workers

In sectors like fishing, agriculture, restaurants, and construction, Ontario relies heavily on temporary foreign workers (TFW). These industries often need extra workers during specific times of the year. TFWs play a crucial role in keeping operations running smoothly.

Under Canada’s TFW program, employers must arrange private health insurance for TFWs before they can get provincial health care. This safeguards employers since they are responsible for the well-being of foreign workers while they work in Ontario. The cost of this insurance is low compared to the potential expenses if an uninsured worker needs medical care.

TFW Health Insurance Coverage

The required private health insurance is known as “visitors to Canada insurance”. It covers illnesses and injuries that require medical care. It’s important to note that it doesn’t cover all the medical costs that provincial health care does. Each insurance policy has limits, and medical expenses could exceed the coverage provided.

It’s recommended that employers buy TFW insurance before the worker arrives. This ensures immediate coverage. If purchased after they arrive, there may be a waiting period of 48 hours to 7 days before benefits apply.

Accessing Health Care

Temporary foreign workers can visit a doctor or hospital without needing approval from their employer. In Canada, they generally do not have to pay for medical care. They can use the health insurance provided by OHIP (or other province or territory they are working in) so long as they are out of the waiting period. Employers must assist TFWs in enrolling for health insurance as soon as they are eligible after their arrival.

Note: Workers from Mexico or the Caribbean who come to Canada as part of the Seasonal Agricultural Worker Program have health insurance coverage. They do not need to purchase additional private health insurance.

Temporary Foreign Worker’s Rights

If a temporary foreign worker gets injured or ill while working, they should inform their employer and seek medical assistance. It’s an employer’s duty to ensure workers can get medical care quickly:

• Give them time off work if needed.
• Provide access to a phone to arrange help, and inform them where to go for medical care.
• Provide transportation if needed. However, employers are not required to pay for transportation to medical facilities.
• Respect their privacy. TFWs have the right to confidential medical consultations without their employer present.

Employer Responsibilities regarding TFWs

Employers play a critical role in the health and well-being of temporary foreign workers. Here are 5 guidelines to help employers find the right private health insurance for TFWs.

• Do your research. Shop around for health insurance providers that customize plans for temporary foreign workers. Make sure the plan is compliant with Canadian regulations.
• Compare coverage details. TFW plans can vary greatly. Consider the monthly premiums, medical services, and deductible amounts so you can choose a plan fits your needs and budget.
• Know the legal requirements. Get familiar with OHIP and Canadian regulations about TFW health insurance, so you’re compliant with the law.
• Explain the coverage to workers. Let your TFWs know what is covered by the health insurance plan, what to do in case of a medical emergency, and how to access services.
• Give TFWs access. Your employees will likely have questions about their health insurance plan. Let them know how to find answers, either online, from a booklet, or from you directly.

Meeting health insurance requirements is one way employers can show their their commitment to supporting the health and safety of TFWs in Ontario. Find more information on health insurance for temporary workers. If you have questions or would like a quote, contact us.