BC Medical Services Plan (BC MSP)

As a resident of British Columbia, you are required by law to have valid medical insurance coverage. The British Columbia Medical Services Plan (BC MSP) is the provincial healthcare provider offering comprehensive coverage to all residents.

Relocating from Another Province?

If you are moving to British Columbia from another province, you must ensure that you maintain coverage with your current healthcare provider until your B.C. MSP coverage starts. This will ensure you have continuous healthcare protection during the transition.

For International Students: Navigating Medical Insurance

Waiting Period for New Residents

When you first arrive in British Columbia, you will need to complete a waiting period before your Medical Services Plan (MSP) coverage begins. The waiting period consists of:

• The remainder of the month in which you establish residency in B.C.

• An additional two months after that.

The official start of your residency is determined by the Ministry of Health, based on several factors. For more detailed information, you can visit the Coverage Wait Period – Province of British Columbia.

New Arrivals and MSP Enrollment

All international students studying on a permit in B.C. for six months or more are required to enroll in the province’s Medical Services Plan (MSP), as mandated by the provincial government. We highly recommend that you apply for MSP as soon as you arrive in British Columbia, as the coverage may take some time to process.

Temporary Coverage with GuardMe

While you are waiting for your MSP coverage to start, many international students opt to enroll in GuardMe, a private insurance provider that offers temporary health coverage specifically designed for international students.

You can apply for GuardMe directly on their website. If you need assistance with your application or have any questions, our Health and Wellness Consultant is available to help guide you through the process.