Canada Working Holiday Visa
Medical and Insurance Info
Insurance
You
might think it's a cliché, but the saying "if you can't afford
insurance then you can't afford to travel" is true.
There are many unexpected things that can happen when you're travelling,
and although no one likes to think about the negative things, it's best
to know that you have the security of a good travel insurance policy so
you're covered, no matter what. Think of it as buying peace of
mind!
By now you're probably thinking, OK, OK, but I'm a careful traveller and
I have a clean bill of health, so maybe I don't need insurance - you're
wrong! What happens if your luggage is stolen, or if your flight
is cancelled due to strikes and you're stranded and miss your connecting
flights? You could break you leg skiing, or your tonsils may just
decide that they have to come out? A stint in an overseas hospital
without insurance could not only end your travelling plans, but also
impact on you and your family's finances in a major way.
When you arrange your insurance, make sure you check the following:
Does it cover a Working Holiday?
What level of medical and hospital cover is included?
What "high risk" adventure activities are covered - skiing,
bungee jumping, parachuting etc? Some insurance policies consider
rugby and cricket to be "adventure" activities.
What
level of travel insurance does it have - cancelled flights,
accommodation, personal effects, emergency return home etc?
What is the maximum period of cover?
Can you extend your cover once you are overseas?
This list is by no means complete, and
is intended only as a guide. Make sure you discuss your individual
needs and your policy cover in detail with your travel advisor.
Medical
/ Health
Canada has no reciprocal health agreement with Australia, which means
you are not entitled to any free healthcare in Canada.
It is highly recommended that you have comprehensive medical / health
insurance before you depart. Healthcare is of an excellent
standard in Canada, but charges are expensive.
