With Canada being one of the closest and easiest countries to get to from the United States, it is important to know about how travel to Canada affects your personal insurance. Here are very common questions regarding insurance coverage andtravel to Canada with the correct answers.
Travel to Canada Question:
“I have a customer who is driving into Canada. In the past she’s received a Canadian ID card from theinsurer, but I recall being told that these are no longer needed as long as you have an ID card with theNAIC (National Association of Insurance Commissioners)code on it. When a U.S. citizen is visiting Canada and driving his or her own vehicle, what proof ofinsurance must s/he carry? Is the non-resident inter-province card still required?”
Travel to Canada Answer:
A U.S. traveler in Canada is required to carry a motor vehicle liability card, plus vehicle ownershippapers. A copy of the automobile policy is recommended to be carried. And a Canadian Non-Resident InterprovincialMotor Vehicle Liability Card is strongly recommended.The Canadian Non-Resident Inter-provincial Motor Vehicle Liability Card is proof of that your USA auto policyliability limits meet the minimum requirements for each / all Canadian provinces and territories and that yourcoverage extends to Canada and its territories.U.S. travelers who do not carry a Canadian Non-Resident Inter-provincial Motor Vehicle Liability Card and arestopped by Canadian police or are in an accident while driving in Canada risk being fined or having their vehicleimpounded until proof of proper coverage is obtained.
For more insurance FAQs, check out our Frequently Asked Questions Page to help you understand different coverages or contact us directly.
Source: Don Mather, Ontario Consumer Information Officer, Insurance Bureau of Canada
FAQs
Travel to Canada Answer:
Do I need proof of insurance to travel to Canada? ›
You don't have to have travel insurance when visiting Canada, unless you are applying for a super visa. But health care is expensive in Canada if you don't have coverage.
Do I need an insurance card to drive in Canada? ›
Without the card, you risk being fined. Your car insurance company can issue you the ID cards, which basically provides proof that they (as your auto insurance company) have filed a Power of Attorney and Undertaking and will meet the minimum legal requirement in any Canadian province where you decide to travel.
What documents are needed to enter Canada? ›
Entry into Canada: Canadian law requires that all persons entering Canada carry proof of citizenship and identity. A valid U.S. passport, passport card, or NEXUS card satisfies these requirements for U.S. citizens. Children under 16 only need proof of U.S. citizenship.
Do you have to have travel insurance to go to Canada? ›
Travel insurance is a necessary contingency for getting sick or injured in Canada. Unlike other Commonwealth countries such as Australia, there isn't a reciprocal health agreement between Canada and the UK, so while healthcare is readily available, it could be very expensive. The emergency services number is 911 or 0.
Do you need car insurance to cross the Canada border? ›
Driving in Canada with an American car insurance policy (and vice versa) is legal. You'll need proof of insurance, a valid driver's license, and a passport (or an approved alternate proof of citizenship) to drive across the border.
What do you need to cross the Canadian border by car? ›
Ensure that you have proper identification for you and your family readily available. Acceptable forms of identification for entry into Canada include a passport, a NEXUS card and an enhanced driver's licence.
Will my car insurance cover me in Canada? ›
An American car insurance policy works the same way in Canada as it does in the U.S. Your comprehensive car insurance coverage and auto collision coverage, for example, still apply to damage to your vehicle if you're in an accident while driving in Canada.
Does my US health insurance cover me in Canada? ›
Do I Need Travel Insurance for Canada? There are no requirements for U.S. citizens to have travel insurance coverage as a condition of entry to Canada. However, most Canadian hospitals do not accept U.S. health insurance or Medicare.
Can I drive in Canada with a US auto insurance? ›
Due to reciprocal laws between the U.S. and Canada, your car insurance will most likely still apply while driving in Canada. This may depend on your provider, but many of the major car insurance providers will qualify for Canadian coverage, unless they specifically offer international car insurance policies for Canada.
A valid U.S. passport or passport card is preferred, although a birth certificate, naturalization certificate, citizenship certificate, or another document proving U.S. nationality, together with a government-issued photo ID (such as a driver's license) are acceptable to establish identity and nationality.
What to know before traveling to Canada? ›
10 Things You Should Know Before Travelling to Canada in Your First Visit
- Get Travel Insurance.
- Be Weather-Ready.
- Check the Visa Requirements and Apply as Per Your Purpose.
- Plan an Appropriate Budget to Visit Canada.
- Canada Is Too Large to See in One Visit.
- Opt For Driving Through Destinations in Canada.
If you are traveling internationally you will still need your passport. If you are traveling domestically, you will only need one valid form of identification – either your REAL ID or another acceptable alternative such as a passport, not both.
Do I need proof of insurance to go to Canada? ›
You may be refused entry if you don't have insurance. If your insurance policy is valid for less time than your expected stay in Canada, you may be issued a work permit that expires at the same time as your insurance.
Do Americans need travel insurance for Canada? ›
US citizens traveling to Canada and other countries will need travel insurance that is helpful during unforeseen situations. Although travel insurance is not a requirement for US citizens traveling out, it definitely is beneficial for many reasons while traveling abroad.
Can I travel to Canada without health insurance? ›
Canada does not pay for hospital or medical services for visitors. You should get health insurance to cover any medical costs before you come to Canada.
Do you need insurance for Canada? ›
While it's not mandatory for tourists, it's highly recommended to have holiday insurance in Canada as medical emergency is not free for visitors. On the other hand, for those moving in with an IEC holiday working visa, travel insurance is an official requirement.
Is travel insurance mandatory? ›
You can opt for this if you want to but you don't have to buy this insurance. The travel agent is breaking the law if they try to make you take it out or charge you more for your holiday because you refuse to accept it. If this happens, you should get advice.
Why do you need travel insurance in Canada? ›
Your travel insurance should include health, life and disability coverage that will help you avoid large expenses, such as the cost of hospitalization and medical treatment outside Canada.
Is insurance mandatory Canada? ›
The law is clear. Every Canadian vehicle owner must have auto insurance in order to operate your vehicle. It is compulsory in all territories and provinces. If you are caught driving without insurance, your license can be suspended, your vehicle can be confiscated, and you will face a hefty fine.
