If you have recently moved to Canada, there is good news for you. You must be taking care of many expenses at the moment, but one thing that won't burn a hole in your savings is healthcare.

With an OHIP card, you can have access to top-notch publicly funded healthcare.

Nevertheless, some terms and conditions apply, and you need to meet some eligibility requirements.

So, in this blog, we will run through the information on the Ontario health card.

How to Get an OHIP Card

If you want to get the card, you will have to submit the OHIP application at a ServiceOntario location.

To know the details for applying for the health card, visit the ServiceOntario Center website to find the location closest to you.

In addition, to get answers to your queries, you can call on the following numbers:

416-326-1234
Toll-free: 1-800-267-8097
TTY (Teletypewriter): 416-325-3408

The operational hours are 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., five days a week, excluding weekends. Make sure you visit or call to get information on your OHIP card at the right time.

How to Apply for the OHIP Card

Here is how you can get a health card:

You need to fill out the Ontario Health Insurance Coverage registration form first.

To be eligible for OHIP-funded medical services, each family member has to have their own OHIP card.

Children above 15½ must register in person and apply for their health card.

You need these three documents to apply for the OHIP card (photocopies are prohibited).

One original document attesting to your citizenship in Canada or your eligibility for OHIP
One document (as indicated on the list, either the original, printed, or digital/electronic document) that attests to your Ontario residency
One authentic document confirming your identity

Additional Tips For Applying

Check if you qualify for the card.
Bring your filled-out form and three original, legitimate forms of identification to a ServiceOntario Center in person.
You may simultaneously apply on behalf of your children if you have dependents or children under the eligible age.
Older children must apply in person because they will need to sign their own form and have their photo taken.
If you don't want to avoid standing in queues, call the ServiceOntario Centre and ask them when there is less of a crowd.
Normally, fewer people visit in the early morning hours. So, it is better not to wait for the afternoon or to go after the lunch break.

How Long Does it Take to Get an OHIP Card?

After submitting your application and supporting documentation, you will have to wait for your health card to come to the service centre.

Typically, your card arrives in four to six weeks.

Suppose, you require medical care during this time, then you can provide your application receipt as evidence of your OHIP eligibility.

Documents You Need to Get an OHIP Card (Explained)

Even though we have mentioned the documents you need to get an OHIP Card, let's discuss them in detail as most people have queries about them.

A birth certificate, passport, Canadian citizenship certificate, permanent residence card, and, if relevant, a work or study permit are all acceptable forms of documentation.

It is crucial to remember that every document needs to be authentic. If they are in a different language, they must be translated by a qualified translator.

Additionally, you should confirm that the name and birthdate on your paperwork correspond to the ones on your legal documents.

Obtaining an OHIP Card for New Residents

As soon as you get to Canada, apply for the health card.
As a newcomer to Ontario, you must bring your documentation to the closest Service Ontario Center to apply.
Three original documents (Status of citizenship and immigration, Identity and Residency in Ontario)

You can also be requested to provide more papers. For instance, if your name has changed, you may need a marriage or name change certificate.

OHIP Card Renewal: How to Renew?

For OHIP card renewal online, use your current driver's license or Ontario Photo Card as identification and evidence of residency in Ontario.

Note that the license shouldn't be suspended, cancelled, or expired. It must have a current photo and signature, shouldn't need a test, and have a current Service Ontario address.

A current picture ID and signature, a valid Ontario photo health card with an expiration date of December 1, 2019, or within 90 days, and a current address with ServiceOntario.

Senior citizens in the age bracket of 75 to 80 years old can get a new photo at the ServiceOntario centre.

After updating your address with ServiceOntario, you have ninety days to renew your health card online.

You can also renew your health card by mail if you are 80 years of age or older.

Also Read: Canada Life Dental Public Service: How Does Canada Life Dental Coverage Work

FAQs

Where to get an OHIP card?

You have to visit the ServiceOntario centre.

What is the waiting period for an OHIP card?

Currently, there is no waiting period to get the health card. The applicants don't need to establish or reestablish their residence in Ontario before applying.

What is the fee for applying for the OHIP card?

You get the health card for free.

Where can I get the OHIP forms?

You can find the PDF version of the forms online.

What can I do if I lose my OHIP health Card?

You can contact the Ontario Ministry of Health INFOline for assistance.

Contact KWC Dental For More Information On OHIP Card

Hopefully, after reading this blog, applying for an OHIP card will be simpler. Now, you are all set to find the closest ServiceOntario location online and start the process.

If you want to get the best dental care, advice, or more details on insurance options for dental treatments, we are happy to help.

OHIP Card Guide: How To Get Ontario Health Card