Health coverage when you travel outside Canada
Overview
If you are travelling outside Canada, your NWT health care card offers only limited protection. This page explains what may be covered, what is not covered, and how to request reimbursement if you receive emergency care.
Know what your NWT health care card covers outside Canada
Your NWT health care card provides very limited coverage when you are outside Canada.
Only emergency or urgently needed medically necessary hospital and physician services may be considered for reimbursement.
If you receive care, you must pay up front.
Reimbursement is based on NWT insured service rates, which are often much lower than what international providers charge.
Reimbursement is issued in Canadian currency, and you are responsible for any difference between what you paid and what is reimbursed.
Prepare to pay up front for emergency care
Most medical providers outside Canada require immediate payment.
You may need to:
- Pay for hospital or physician services before receiving care.
- Obtain an itemized receipt that lists the service and the amount charged.
- Submit a claim after you return to the NWT.
Only medically required services are eligible for reimbursement.
Understand what is not covered when you are travelling internationally
Basic NWT health coverage does not include:
- Most medical services outside Canada.
- Air ambulance, emergency evacuation, or transportation back to Canada.
- Private clinic fees or extra charges not part of insured services.
- Prescription drugs purchased outside Canada.
- Travel, meals, accommodation, and other non‑medical expenses.
Maintain your NWT coverage if you are away for a long period
If you are planning to be outside the NWT for an extended time, you may need to complete a Temporary Absence Form to keep your NWT coverage active.
This confirms that the NWT remains your primary place of residence.
Submit a claim for eligible emergency services received outside Canada
If you paid for insured emergency services outside Canada, follow these steps to request reimbursement:
Steps
- Get an itemized receipt that lists the service provided and the amount you paid.
- Complete the out‑of‑country claim form.
- Submit your form and receipt to the Health Services Administration Office.
Learn more about submitting a claim:
Know the difference between out of country coverage and Medical Travel
Medical Travel benefits do not apply to most personal travel outside Canada. It is separate and is supported through different coverage types and insurance plans.
Protect yourself with private travel insurance
Travel insurance is strongly recommended for anyone travelling outside Canada.
It can help cover costs that basic health coverage does not include, such as emergency medical treatment, medical evacuation, hospital charges, lost baggage, trip cancellation, and accidental death insurance.
You may already have some coverage through an employer plan, travel agency, auto club, bank, or credit card.
Review your coverage before you travel so you know what is and is not included.