Understanding Eligibility for Manitoba Health Benefits: A Guide for New Comers
Navigating the health care system as a newcomer to Canada can feel overwhelming. If you've recently moved to Manitoba, it’s essential to understand your eligibility for Manitoba Health Benefits and what these benefits entail. Like the rest of Canada, Manitoba offers publicly funded healthcare to all it’s legal residents/citizens.
When I just came to Winnipeg and we applied for Manitoba provincial health benefits, the process was straightforward, we went to Manitoba Health office which was located in 355 Portage Avenue, we provided our information and then we went home with our paper Manitoba Health Card.
In recent years, there have been several changes in eligibility and application requirements. I've met many newcomers who have shared their confusion about navigating these updates, and I realized how challenging it can be to get accurate information. To make it easier for those of you who are new to Manitoba, I've put together this guide to clarify who qualifies, when benefits begin, and what services are covered under Manitoba Health. Whether you're a permanent resident, temporary worker, international student, or refugee, I hope this article will help you understand and access the healthcare coverage you’re entitled to.
WHO IS ELIGIBLE FOR MANITOBA HEALTH BENEFITS
Manitoba Health provides coverage for medically necessary services, but eligibility varies based on your residency status. You may be eligible for Manitoba Health Coverage if you are:
a Canadian citizen
an Indigenous person (registered under the federal Indian Act)
a permanent resident
in Manitoba on a valid work permit (of 12 consecutive months or more)
the spouse or minor child (under 18 years) of a work permit holder (permit validity periods apply)
a convention refugee or protected person (as defined by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada)
in Manitoba providing agricultural services and have been issued a work permit
AND
make your home in Manitoba
are physically in Manitoba six months (183 days) in a calendar year
Moving to Manitoba from within Canada. If you have moved to Manitoba from another province or territory, and intend to live in Manitoba for six months or more, you are encouraged to apply for Manitoba Health coverage within three months of arriving in Manitoba. If you are eligible, Manitoba Health coverage will begin on the first day of the third month after you arrive in Manitoba. For example, if you arrive in January 29, January will count as the first month, with February and March as the following two. Therefore, in this case your coverage will begin in April 1.
Moving to Manitoba from outside Canada. If you are moving to or returning to Manitoba from outside of Canada, coverage eligibility is based on proof of your legal status in Canada and your residence in Manitoba. Canadian citizens and permanent residents may apply for coverage from the date of arrival in Manitoba. When you apply, you will need to provide a copy of your passport and all Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada documents which have been issued to you and your spouse and minor children (under 18 years). You will also need to provide proof of your residence in Manitoba.
Photo credit to https://sharedhealthmb.ca/
RETURNING CANADIANS
If you are returning to live in Manitoba after having been outside of Canada for more than seven months in a calendar year, you may apply for Manitoba Health coverage from the date you arrive in Manitoba. In order for Manitoba Health to review and make a decision about your application, the following is required: proof of your Canadian citizenship and proof of residence in Manitoba.
PERMANENT RESIDENTS
Permanent residents (PR) moving to Manitoba are eligible for Manitoba Health benefits. To qualify, you must:
Have been approved as a permanent resident by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
Have settled in Manitoba with the intent to reside here for at least six months annually.
For most permanent residents, Manitoba Health coverage begins on the date of arrival in Manitoba, provided all necessary documents have been submitted. However, the review of one’s eligibility and documents provided may take several weeks. There is also a mandatory wait period which can delay access to Manitoba health care for up to 3 months from your arrival to the province. It is for this reason why so many newcomers would seek out private health insurance that will cover them while they wait for their Manitoba health card to arrive.
WORK PERMIT HOLDERS
Work permit holders who hold a valid work permit and reside in Manitoba may apply for Manitoba Health coverage; from the date your valid work permit was issued. In order for Manitoba Health to review and make a decision about your application, the following is required: proof of your work permit(s) of minimum 12 consecutive months duration and proof of residence in Manitoba.
Typically, work permit holders’ health coverage begins after a three-month waiting period. During this period, it is recommended to have private health insurance to cover any medical costs.
INTERNATIONAL STUDENTS
Effective September 1, 2018, individuals with a Study Permit issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada are no longer eligible for Manitoba Health, Seniors and Active Living coverage.
Since international students will not receive provincial health coverage and should arrange for private health insurance.
REFUGEES & PROTECTED PERSONS
A refugee claimant may be eligible for Manitoba Health benefits if they have been issued a work permit that satisfies the same criteria as “Work Permit Holders”
COVERED MEDICAL SERVICES
Manitoba Health directly pays physicians’ services that are medically required for you or your dependants. If you are a Manitoba resident, and are physically present in the province for 183 days, you are eligible for insured medical services.
Manitoba Health provides a range of medically necessary services, including:
Doctor’s Visits: Appointments with family doctors and specialists are covered.
Hospital Care: This includes inpatient and outpatient care, emergency services, and surgeries.
Diagnostic Services: Medically necessary tests like X-rays, MRIs, and lab tests.
Maternity Care: Prenatal, childbirth, and postpartum care are included.
Services Not Covered - While Manitoba Health offers extensive coverage, there are certain services not included, such as:
Prescription Drugs (for most adults outside hospitals)
Dental Care (except in specific cases requiring hospitalization)
Vision Care (for adults)
Chiropractic Services
Ambulance Services
Private health insurance plans are available to cover these non-insured services. Many newcomers opt for additional insurance to ensure comprehensive coverage.
For full list of covered medical services, you can visit Manitoba Health Card and Coverage page.
HOW TO APPLY FOR MANITOBA HEALTH BENEFITS
Eligible individuals must apply for their Manitoba Health Card, which serves as proof of health coverage.
Here’s how:
Gather Documents: Have your immigration documents, identification, and proof of Manitoba residence ready.
Fill Out the Form: Complete the Manitoba Health Registration Form available on the Manitoba Health website or at their offices.
Submit the Application: Submit the form and documents in person or by mail.
Understanding Manitoba’s healthcare system can ease your transition as a newcomer. Each residency status has unique eligibility criteria, so it’s important to confirm your coverage start date and benefits as soon as possible. By securing health insurance and understanding what is covered, you can ensure you and your family have access to the health services you need.
Resources:
Manitoba Health, Seniors and Long-Term Care, accessed on May 18, 2024
