Leaving British Columbia for a year abroad is thrilling but daunting, especially when it comes to healthcare coverage.
Whether you’re slow traveling, working in Europe, or testing life elsewhere, your Medical Services Plan (MSP) needs careful planning.
Here’s what B.C. residents must know before booking that flight.
Maintaining MSP Abroad
To keep MSP, you must be physically present in B.C. for six months per calendar year Health Insurance BC.
For longer absences, you can retain MSP for up to 24 months once every five years if you’re a citizen or permanent resident, have lived in B.C. for six of the 12 months before leaving, haven’t used this rule in five years, haven’t taken the seven-month vacation absence recently, and don’t return for over 30 consecutive days Health Insurance BC.
Exceeding these limits cancels MSP, with a waiting period of two months plus the remainder of the month you return.
Private Health Insurance Is Essential
MSP covers little abroad, reimbursing only $75 CAD per day for U.S. hospital stays, far below the average $3,000 USD daily cost KFF.
Private plans like SafetyWing, starting at $45 USD per month, or Cigna’s global coverage protect against emergencies and evacuations SafetyWing.
Without MSP, you’ll need private insurance during the waiting period to reinstate coverage Health Insurance BC.
Studying Abroad
Full-time students at recognized institutions can keep MSP for their program’s duration, provided they return within 30 days of completion, or face the waiting period Health Insurance BC.
Other Essentials
Plan these logistics:
- Notify CRA to clarify tax residency CRA.
- Arrange mail forwarding for bills.
- Confirm voting eligibility Elections BC.
Before You Go
- Contact Health Insurance BC to confirm MSP eligibility.
- Secure private health insurance for emergencies.
- Plan your return to avoid MSP waiting periods.
- Keep records of B.C. visits for compliance.
- Notify CRA and set up mail forwarding.
Final Thoughts
Leaving B.C. takes more than a flight.
MSP hinges on your absence and return plans, while private insurance and logistics keep you covered.
Plan smart to travel worry-free. Share your top travel concerns in the comments to spark a conversation.
