Can I go to Canada for medical treatment?

Yes - You can go to Canada to have medical care, but you must understand the visa and entry requirements before traveling. Canada does not offer a dedicated “medical visa” for foreign patients, but international patients may receive treatment in Canada using a Visitor Visa (Temporary Resident Visa — TRV) or, if eligible, an eTA for visa-exempt nationals. Yet, the approval is not automatic, and Applicants must demonstrate that medical treatment is the primary purpose of their visit if they are applying as a medical visitor and that they are able to cover the full cost of all the treatment and travel costs.

1. Visa Requirements for Medical Travel

Travelers from visa-required countries such as India, China, Nigeria, Pakistan, and the Philippines must apply for a Visitor Visa (TRV). The application must include:

A detailed explanation of the medical condition
A medical explanation for why treatment is sought in Canada.
Where treatment will occur
Evidence of adequate finances required to meet medical and travelling expenses.

Visa-exempt nationals (such as those from the UK, EU countries, Australia, Japan, and South Korea) must obtain an eTA for air travel to Canada.

Noticeably, a visa or eTA does not offer free medical services. The cost of treatment is all paid by the visitors.

2. Required Documents

To be approved for medical travel to Canada, applicants must provide:

Medical documentation from home country:

Diagnosis or medical summary.
A letter by a treating doctor.
Reasons as to why treatment is sought overseas.

Documents from the Canadian medical facility:

An official letter confirming that the facility has agreed to provide treatment.
Estimated cost
Estimated timeline
Details of the scheduled appointment or planned admission

Financial proof:

Bank statements
Income documents
Sponsorship letters (if applicable)

3. Entry and Border Requirements

At the border, CBSA officers may ask for:

Purpose of visit
Medical treatment documents
Proof of funds
Proof of return travel

Border officers often authorize stays of up to six months, but they may grant a shorter period depending on the treatment plan and supporting documents, though they may authorize a shorter period based on the treatment schedule.

4. Extensions for Ongoing Treatment

Tourists are allowed to request a time extension if they need to spend more time receiving medical care. The approval needs renewed medical letters and evidence of sustained financial assistance.

5. Important Notes

Canada does not provide free healthcare to visitors.
Medical care in Canada can be extremely costly for non-residents without comprehensive insurance.
Visa approval is not guaranteed; each application is individually assessed.

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