Snowbirds are people who escape cold northern winters by heading south to warmer destinations.
🌎 From Canada to the Sun: Many are Canadians who spend winters in places like Florida, Arizona, Mexico, or the Caribbean.
👵 Mostly Retirees: Most Snowbirds are retirees or older adults looking for milder climates.
👩 Not Just Seniors: Some are younger workers with flexible jobs or seasonal employment who follow the tourist season.
🏠 Seasonal Lifestyle: Snowbirds usually return home in spring to reconnect with family and friends.
Why Do Snowbirds Need Insurance
Healthcare in the U.S. is very expensive. A simple hospital visit can cost thousands of dollars, and major emergencies can run into tens of thousands. That’s why Canadian snowbirds especially seniors should always buy best Snowbird travel insurance before leaving Canada.
American Visitor Insurance specializes in Snowbird travel insurance for Canadians visiting the U.S.
📞 Need help? Call us at
(877)-340-7910
or 📧 Or email us.
to get personal assistance from our licensed agents.
👉 We’ll help you compare plans and find the best Snowbird travel medical insurance for the USA.
What is Snowbird Travel Medical Insurance?
Snowbird travel medical insurance is designed for Canadians mainly retirees who spend extended time in warmer destinations like the USA, Mexico, or the Caribbean during the winter months.
What It Covers
Emergency medical care abroad.
Hospitalization, surgery, and ambulance services.
Flexible coverage limits: from $25,000 up to $8 million.
Policy duration: as short as 5 days or as long as 3 years.
Deductible choices: $0 to $5,000, applied per incident or per policy period.
What It Does Not Cover
Routine medical checkups.
Ongoing treatment of chronic conditions.
Healthcare costs in the U.S. are among the highest in the world. Without coverage, a single emergency can lead to massive out-of-pocket bills. Snowbird insurance helps protect Canadian travelers especially seniors from these risks.
👉 You can compare plans, check costs, and buy the best U.S. health insurance for Canadian snowbirds at American Visitor Insurance.
Do Canadians Need Snowbird Travel Insurance?
Yes. Snowbird travel insurance is essential for Canadians who spend winters in warmer destinations like the USA, Mexico, or Europe.
🧳 Many snowbirds are retirees or seniors escaping the cold.
📌 Canadian health insurance doesn’t cover medical costs outside Canada.
💰 Healthcare in the U.S. and Europe is very expensive — even a short hospital stay can cost thousands of dollars.
The Canadian government strongly recommends buying proper overseas travel medical insurance before leaving the country.
👉 With Snowbird travel insurance, Canadians can enjoy their winter stay abroad without worrying about unexpected medical expenses.
What Are the Benefits of Snowbird Travel Insurance?
Best health insurance for snowbirds is important for Canadian heading to warmer destinations like the US for extended winter stays. The key benefits include:
Emergency medical coverage: Covers unexpected medical expenses, including hospitalization, doctor visits, prescription drugs, surgery, and emergency medical evacuation while outside Canada.
Snowbird travel Insurance for pre-existing conditions: Snowbirds with pre-existing medical conditions can also get coverage depending on the specific condition and the insurance plan, helping seniors avoid high out-of-pocket costs during their winter stay abroad.
Lost or delayed baggage: Offers coverage for lost, stolen, or delayed luggage helping snowbirds avoid travel related issues during extended travel.
Customizable plan types: Single trip travel insurance is best for one time extended stays, but annual multi trip insurance provide coverage for unlimited international trips in 12 month period with maximum trip duration ranging from 30 to 70 days.
Repatriation of remains: It includes coverage for emergency medical transportation back to Canada if necessary.
Covid-19 coverage: Most travel health insurance for Canadians in USA offer coverage for covid-19 as any other illness.
How Much Does Snowbird Travel Insurance Cost Per Month?
The cost of Snowbird travel insurance for Canadians visiting the U.S. is not fixed it depends on several factors:
👤 Age of the traveler.
📅 Length of stay and travel duration.
💵 Coverage amount (policy maximum).
🧾 Deductible chosen (from $0 to higher amounts).
🏥 Type of plan — Fixed benefit vs. Comprehensive.
Plan Types
Fixed Benefit Plans → Cover set amounts for each service (lower premiums, limited coverage).
Comprehensive Plans → Broader protection, covering up to the policy maximum (higher premiums, better coverage).
👉 Since costs vary widely, it’s best to compare multiple plans to find the right balance of price and protection for your winter stay.
How much does the most affordable American health insurance for Canadians cost?
The most affordable option for Canadian snowbirds visiting the U.S. is the Safe Travels Advantage plan, which starts at around $20 per month.
💵 Premiums can range from $20 to $155 per month, depending on:
👤 Age of the traveler.
💰 Policy maximum (coverage limit).
🧾 Deductible amount chosen.
📌 Tip: On average, a fixed benefit visitor insurance plan like Safe Travels Advantage offers budget-friendly protection for Canadians in the U.S. — making it a popular choice for travelers who want reliable coverage without high premiums.
How much does the comprehensive and best travel insurance for Canadians in USA cost?
For Canadians seeking strong medical coverage in the U.S., one of the most popular comprehensive plans is the Safe Travels USA Cost Saver.
Premiums typically range from $71 to $353 per month
Pricing depends on:
👤 Traveler’s age
💰 Policy maximum (coverage limit)
🧾 Deductible chosen (average example: $250)
Unlike budget fixed-benefit plans, Safe Travels USA Cost Saver is a comprehensive plan, meaning it covers eligible expenses up to the policy maximum — offering broader protection and peace of mind for snowbirds and long-term visitors.
What Is the Cheapest US Medical Insurance for Canadian Snowbirds?
The Cheapest medical insurance for Canadian snowbirds in the U.S. is the Safe Travels Advantage plan, starting at about $20 per month.
Other affordable short-term options include:
💡 These prices are based on a 40-year-old traveler and may vary with age, coverage limits, and deductibles.
All three plans provide essential medical protection at a budget-friendly price, making them smart choices for Canadians on short visits to the U.S.
👉 Compare quotes easily on American Visitor Insurance to find the right fit for your needs.
* The price shown is for a 30-day trip with a $25,000 maximum coverage and a $0 deductible for a 40-year-old traveler.
Other affordable Canadian Snowbird travel insurance options with comprehensive coverage are:
Safe Travels USA: This is one of the most cheapest comprehensive travel insurance plan for non-U.S. citizens, offering medical benefits at a affordable cost.
It also includes coverage for the unexpected recurrence of pre-existing conditions, up to $1,000 in covered expenses for travelers up to 70 years.
Patriot America Lite: A popular short-term medical insurance plan among visitors to the USA, offering coverage for emergency treatment, urgent care, with medical benefits up to $1,000,000 including emergency medical evacuation.
What Is the Best Travel Insurance for Canadian Snowbirds?
Given the high cost of healthcare in the U.S., it's important to choose a plan with comprehensive medical coverage, emergency evacuation, and benefits for pre-existing conditions. The best medical insurance for visitors to USA from Canada are:
Mexico is one of the most popular destinations for Canadian snowbirds thanks to:
☀️ Warm, sunny
🏖️ Beautiful beaches and coastal towns
💰 Affordable cost of living compared to the U.S.
✈️ Easy travel connections back to Canada
🍴 Vibrant culture, cuisine, and historic attractions (like the Mayan ruins in the Yucatán Peninsula)
Why Insurance Matters in Mexico
While Mexico is an attractive winter escape, Canadian seniors should have reliable Snowbird travel insurance to protect against unexpected medical emergencies abroad.
These plans cover medical emergencies, sudden illness, and injuries. However, they offer limited protection for non-medical issues like:
🛄 Baggage delay or loss
✈️ Missed connections
🚫 Trip interruption
👉 For full peace of mind, Canadians can also add a trip cancellation insurance plan, which covers cancellation, interruption, and other travel-related risks.
The reason Florida is the most popular snowbird destination is its sunshine almost year-round and the lifestyle options available. From the busy beaches and nightlife of Miami, to the theme parks in Orlando, and retirement communities in Naples, loads of snowbirds choose Florida for the lifestyle options available.
The warm, dry climate, desert landscape, and golf friendly winter make Phoenix, Scottsdale, and Tucson popular Snowbird destinations for those who prefer sun with less humidity.
Palm Springs, San Diego, and cities near the coast in southern California provide a lifestyle for snowbirds with great weather, beaches, and a relaxed way of life for snowbirds that want to relax, have an increase in activity..
Canadian snowbirds, typically retirees or semi-retirees, often migrate to warmer destinations like the Caribbean to escape the harsh Canadian winters. These are some of the Caribbean countries popular among Canadian Snowbirds.
Barbados: Known for its friendly locals, beautiful beaches, and vibrant culture.
Puerto Rico: Offers a blend of Caribbean and U.S. influences, with diverse cultural and recreational opportunities.
Jamaica: Rich in culture and natural beauty, with plenty of resorts and vacation rentals.
Bahamas: Offers beautiful islands and a variety of amenities.
Dominican Republic: Offers affordable living with stunning beaches and a variety of activities.
Buying best travel insurance for Canadian snowbirds to the Caribbean is important to ensure they are covered for medical emergencies, medical evacuation and other unforeseen events.
Which Is the Best Travel Medical Insurance for Canadians?
The best travel medical insurance for Canadians is the TrueNorth Travel Medical plan. It offers high coverage limits, unlimited evacuation and repatriation, and 24/7 travel assistance for international trips.
Designed for Canadians traveling abroad, TrueNorth Travel Medical Insurance provides comprehensive emergency medical protection at an affordable price—ensuring strong benefits and complete peace of mind wherever you go.
TrueNorth Travel Medical Insurance
TrueNorth Travel Medical is an accident and sickness insurance plan designed exclusively for Canadian residents, providing affordable coverage and 24/7 travel assistance for a single international trip.
This TrueNorth Travel Medical Insurance plan offers reliable protection for Canadians traveling abroad, though it is not available in certain provinces and territories or for travel to Israel and countries restricted by Canada Global Affairs.
Best for Canadian residents traveling outside of Canada.
Available for travelers up to age 59.
Offers single-trip coverage.
Provides unlimited coverage repatriation of remains.
Unlimited emergency medical evacuation.
Emergency medical coverage up to $5,000,000.
10-day free look period.
TrueNorth Travel Medical insurance starts from $125 for a 40-year-old traveler
Which Is the Best Travel Insurance for Canadians Visiting the USA?
When Canadians are planning a trip to the USA, selecting the right travel insurance is crucial, especially for those with pre-existing medical conditions. Among the available options, the following INF plans stand out for their comprehensive coverage and benefits:
Ensure a safe and worry-free winter in the sun with these essential travel insurance tips tailored for Canadian snowbirds:
🛫 Buy insurance before departure
Ensure your policy is active before leaving Canada to avoid any coverage gaps during your trip.
🏥 Comprehensive emergency coverage
Look for high emergency medical limits (from $1,000,000 to $8,000,000) covering hospitalization, doctor visits, medical evacuation, and repatriation.
💊 Coverage for pre-existing conditions
Choose plans covering pre-existing conditions or acute onset of existing conditions. Check how this affects premiums.
🗓️ Choose the right policy
For one extended stay, select a single-trip plan. For frequent travel, consider an annual multi-trip plan for cost efficiency.
💰 Compare multiple insurers
Get quotes from different reputable providers to find the best cost, coverage, and benefits suited to your needs.
💳 Deductibles & direct billing
Choose a deductible that fits your budget. Opt for direct billing plans to reduce upfront payments and reimbursement hassle.
⏳ Plan for extended days
Ensure your plan can be renewed or extended if your stay is prolonged due to weather, health, or family reasons.
📄 Understand policy limitations
Carefully review your policy to know what is covered and what is excluded, avoiding unexpected out-of-pocket costs during emergencies.
How Does Provincial Health Coverage Work for Canadian Snowbirds?
Canadian snowbirds need to understand that provincial health plans offer very limited protection once you are outside your home province or outside Canada.
🌎 Restricted Coverage Abroad
Most provincial health plans only cover a small portion of medical costs outside Canada. In many cases, coverage is reduced or even suspended if you are away for more than six months in a calendar year.
📝 Check Before You Leave
Always confirm with your provincial health authority how long you can be away without losing eligibility for health benefits. Each province has its own rules.
⚠️ Extended U.S. Stays
If you remain in the U.S. longer than your visa or cross-border privileges allow, you may face immigration and tax-related obligations.
⚖️ Get Legal Advice if Needed
For longer stays, consult a cross-border legal or tax advisor to avoid issues with residency status and reporting requirements.
👉 While provincial health care offers security at home, it won’t fully protect you during extended stays in the U.S. That’s why snowbirds should plan carefully both for their health coverage and their legal stay.
What Happens If SnowbirdsStay Longer Than Intended? Snowbirds usually encounter unanticipated delays for various reasons a medical issue, a weather challenge or even restrictions on travel. It is helpful to understand how your policy will operate for an extension or renewal.
How To Choose the Best U.S. health insurance for Canadian Snowbirds?
Midterm Extension - A quick overview of coverage which allows the extension of your policy while you are in the country and away.
No Requirement to “Return Home” - Some travel insurance plans require you to come back to your province in Canada to renew your travel insurance - if you plan to remain for a longer duration avoid those policies.
Bridging a Gap - Some policies are flexible if you come back to Canada for a very brief time before leaving again.
Medical Underwriting - Make sure to check if you will have to go through another health evaluation just to extend the policy.
Limits on Age or Condition - Some insurance policies do not provide an option for renewal if one is above a certain age or pre-existing health condition.
The best travel insurance for Snowbirds should provide coverage with flexibility and peace of mind so that they can undertake those trips without having to be concerned that things will or won’t go as planned.
What Happens If a Snowbird Has a Medical Emergency in the U.S.?
John (age 68) in Arizona, February 2024
While golfing in Scottsdale, John experienced chest pain and was rushed to the nearest hospital. He was admitted for two days of testing and treatment. The total medical bill exceeded USD 36,000.
Fortunately, John’s snowbird travel medical plan included direct billing with the hospital, so most charges were settled directly by the insurer. John only paid his $250 deductible. For the claim, he submitted the hospital admission records, cardiologist’s report, and discharge papers. The insurance company processed the claim in 18 days, and John was not responsible for any additional out-of-pocket costs.
Lesson learned: Choosing a plan with direct billing and strong emergency coverage ensures quick treatment without the stress of handling large upfront medical expenses.
What Makes Snowbird Insurance Unique?
While a standard vacation is often brief, snowbirds will generally spend 3-6 months outside of Canada, which means:
There will be greater exposure to medical risks.
Claims are more likely because of age-related issues.
Provincial health insurance coverage is limited — most provinces only cover a small portion of out-of-country expenses.
Immigration and tax issues if you stay in the U.S. too long.
How to Compare and Choose the Best Canadian Snowbirds Travel Insurance?
Compare Snowbird travel insurance costs by considering trip duration, level of coverage, and coverage for pre-existing conditions, which is crucial for elderly travelers.
Here is a detailed guide to help you compare and buy the most affordable Snowbird travel medical insurance:
Fixed benefit plans: Provides basic coverage for essential medical emergencies with affordable premiums.
Comprehensive Plans
Comprehensive plans: Offers extensive coverage with higher medical limits up to the plan maximum, ideal for full protection.
Some travel medical insurance providers offer coverage for adventure activities and pre-existing conditions, essential for older travelers.
Key Factors That Affect Canadian Snowbird Travel Insurance Cost
When selecting Canadian snowbirds travel insurance, several factors influence the cost of travel insurance:
Age of the traveler: Older travelers generally pay higher premiums due to the increased risk of medical issues.
Trip duration: Longer stays result in higher insurance costs.
Destination: Travel to countries or regions significantly increases the cost due to varying healthcare costs or risks.
Coverage limits: Travel health insurance for Canadians with higher coverage limits for medical expenses, emergency evacuation, and other benefits tend to cost more.
Type of plan: Comprehensive plans cover a wide range of medical services and tend to be more expensive than fixed benefit plans which have specific limits for each treatment.
Pre-existing conditions: If you need coverage for pre-existing conditions, you may face higher premiums.
Deductible amount: Choosing a higher deductible lowers the premium but increases out-of-pocket expenses during a claim.
Optional add-ons: Additional benefits to the basic insurance plan like adventure sports coverage, baggage loss, or coverage for pre-existing conditions will add to the overall cost.
Top Snowbird Travel Insurance Providers
Some of the most trusted US insurance providers include:
IMG (International Medical Group): Offers a wide range of plans with high policy maximums and flexible benefits — ideal for longer USA visits.
Global Underwriters: Known for reliable coverage for older visitors who may have pre-existing medical conditions. Popular for both short and longer visits.
Trawick International: Offers comprehensive coverage, including benefits designed for seniors and international visitors, such as acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage.
INF Insurance: Specialized in providing travel medical insurance for older visitors with pre-existing conditions. INF offers both fixed benefit and comprehensive plans suitable for older Canadian travelers.
These providers are recognized for their large PPO networks, direct billing options, and 24/7 emergency support designed for travelers from Canada.
Tips to Find the Best Snowbird Insurance
Compare quotes from multiple insurance providers at American Visitor Insurance.
Review policy details, exclusions, coverage limits, and claim procedures before buying.
By carefully comparing options and quotes, you can find the most suitable and affordable Snowbird travel insurance for your needs.
What Should Canadian Snowbirds Consider Before Buying Travel Insurance for the US?
Medical Coverage
Ensure that the travel health insurance plan provides comprehensive flexible coverage for sickness and injuries, including emergency medical evacuation and repatriation.
Pre-existing conditions
It is beneficial to see if the travel medical insurance plan for Canadian snowbirds provides good coverage for pre-existing conditions related medical expenses. Typically, most plans provide coverage for acute onset or sudden recurrence of pre-existing conditions.
Baggage, personal liability, travel delay, missed connections
It is good to have coverage for baggage loss in case the baggage is stolen or damaged along with personal items. Similarly, coverage for personal liability is helpful if you accidentally cause injury or property damage. Coverage for travel delays and missed connections will help cover additional expenses incurred due to these situations.
Duration of coverage and Cost
It is important that the Snowbird insurance for Canadian Snowbirds covers the entire duration of the stay and possible extensions during winter. Check if the travel insurance plan is renewable. Comparing different plans and their costs will help get good value for the money while providing adequate coverage.
Reviews and exclusions
Read the policy document carefully to know what is excluded in the coverage and check customer reviews to ensure the provider is reputable.
⚠️ Note: At American Visitor Insurance, we offer travel health insurance plans for Canadian snowbirds coming to the US enduring harsh winter conditions, keeping in mind the important factors mentioned above. Customers can visit our visitor medical insurance section to explore pre-existing travel health insurance and senior travel insurance pages for insight on travel medical insurance plans, including annual multitrip plans for Canadians visiting the US during winters.
What Are the Top Travel Tips for Snowbirds?
Here are some important tips for a safe and enjoyable snowbirds season:
🗓️ Plan early: Book accommodations, arrange transportation, and ensure all necessary documents are in order before departure.
🛡️ Buy travel insurance: Choose a comprehensive Snowbird travel insurance plan that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and pre-existing conditions.
💊 Health precautions: Carry enough medications and know the locations of local medical facilities at your destination.
🏥 Know health care options: Research hospitals and urgent care centers near your travel destination to ensure quick access if needed.
⚖️ Understand local laws: Familiarize yourself with local laws, customs, and traffic rules to avoid any legal issues.
🔒 Travel safety: Stay aware of your surroundings, carry copies of your ID, insurance policy, and keep valuables secure.
🎉 Plan activities: Research and plan activities such as sightseeing, attending local events, or socializing with fellow snowbirds to maximize enjoyment during your stay.
📞 Register with the Canadian government (ROCA): Ensure you are reachable during emergencies while abroad.
🌞 American Visitor Insurance helps Canadian snowbirds ensure a safe, healthy, and worry-free stay in warmer destinations by offering suitable travel medical insurance plans designed for their needs.
🛂 New Travel Requirement for Canadians Visiting USA for More Than 30 Days
Canadians traveling to the US for more than 30 days are required to register with US immigration authorities and provide fingerprints. This will be a strict enforcement of an existing law which was previously applied inconsistently and aims to improve compliance with US immigration regulations.
This new rule, issued by the Department of Homeland Security (DHS), applies to all foreign nationals crossing the US-Canada land border who are 14 years or older and staying for more than 30 days in the USA. This will impact close to 3 million Canadians annually, including around 1 million "snowbirds" who spend extended winters in the US.
Canadian professionals on long-term assignments in the US must comply with the new registration and fingerprinting requirements. However, short-term visitors to the US, such as tourists and cross-border shoppers should not be impacted.
Which is the Cheapest travel insurance for Canadians visiting USA?
One of the cheapest travel medical insurance options for Canadians visiting the USA is the TrueNorth Travel Medical plan,
starting at just $40 CAD for a 20-year-old traveler. This plan provides essential coverage, including emergency medical care, hospitalization,accidents, and medical evacuation or repatriation, offering reliable protection at an affordable price. It is available for travelers up to 59 years old and can be purchased directly on American Visitor Insurance.
Is It Better to Buy Travel Insurance from the USA or Canada?
🩺 PPO Network
Many US-based insurance plans offer PPO networks, giving access to direct billing facilities. In contrast, some European or Canadian plans may not have PPO networks in the USA, leading to higher out-of-pocket expenses.
🌐 Wide Network
Canadian insurance companies may have extensive networks within Canada, but have limited access to U.S. medical networks.
💵 Reimbursement Basis
Many Canadian companies operate on a reimbursement basis, requiring upfront payment for medical services. US insurers often provide direct billing options to reduce out-of-pocket expenses.
💰 Cost of the Plan
Canadian plans may be more affordable but often have coverage limitations. US insurance plans are usually comprehensive and offer flexible, extensive coverage.
📞 Customer Service
US insurers offer local customer service, simplifying claims and assistance. Canadian insurers provide bilingual support, helpful for travelers from diverse backgrounds.
📜 Regulations
US insurance plans follow strict government regulations and honor the policy terms, ensuring clarity and compliance.
Naturally, the first thing one thinks about when planning a trip is not how much a trip in that country’s ER will cost. However, we suggest you consider the high costs of health care in the US and arrange to have yourself and your loved ones covered in case something does happen.
Emergency room expenses and hospital stays are extremely expensive and can financially devastate under-insured or uninsured individuals in the US.
The cost of a routine physician visit can be around $176. An echocardiogram may cost $1,000 in Massachusetts or up to $3,000 in New Jersey. Common ailments like Diabetes Mellitus with Hyperglycemia in the ER can cost $2,500–$5,000. A stroke requiring ICU for 10 days may cost $120,000, and a heart attack with full treatment including ambulance, ICU, and scans may cost $20,000. The average treatment for acute kidney failure exceeds $22,000.
While there are multiple reasons for high healthcare costs, it is critical to understand that one cannot afford to be uninsured while visiting the US. Visitors insurance significantly reduces medical bills, especially when hospitals are part of a PPO network.
Bring any prescription medications along with copies of prescriptions. Use urgent care centers for non-life-threatening conditions to save time and money. These centers often operate outside normal office hours, making them ideal for sudden issues.
Here at American Visitor Insurance, we offer many Canada to USA travel insurance plans from reputable US insurance providers to help travelers receive the care they need. Let us help you find the right travel insurance for Canadian citizens visiting the United States.
Do Canadian Snowbirds and Cross-Border Shopping Travelers Need Travel Insurance for the US?
The United States attracts hundreds of thousands of Canadian snowbirds each year. These travelers migrate to warmer southern locations like Florida, Arizona, California, and Texas during the winter months.
Snowbirds are traditionally retirees avoiding cold winters while maintaining ties with family and friends in Canada. The lifestyle is evolving, with younger professionals and business owners increasingly participating. Statistics Canada reports at least 375,000 snowbirds travel to the US and Mexico annually, often making multiple trips during winter.
Along with snowbirds, many Canadians travel for cross-border shopping of goods like alcohol and gasoline. Approximately 90% of Canada’s population lives within 100 miles of the US border, making short trips easy and convenient. In 2018, 53% of cross-border buyers obtained goods from the US.
Traveling multiple times, whether for Snowbird activities or shopping, requires caution. Medical emergencies in the US can be extremely expensive, so having health insurance for Canadians visiting the US is essential for peace of mind and financial protection.
Purchasing travel insurance ensures coverage for unforeseen medical emergencies. You can compare insurance quotes from the best US insurance providers to select a plan suited to your needs. For assistance, you can call or email our customer service team.
There are currently no COVID-related restrictions for US visitors, and travel between Canada and the US has fully resumed.
Do I Need Travel Insurance from Canada to USA During Winter?
Can I Get US Insurance When I Am Already in the US?
YES! Canadians CAN purchase US travel insurance policies from American Visitor Insurance to cover the remainder of their stay (as long as they like).
Can I Use Canadian Health Insurance While Living in the US?
Canadian health insurance cannot be used if you are living outside of Canada for an extended period or permanently.
Consider reviewing your insurance needs if you are living or planning to live abroad.
Local insurance laws may require travel medical insurance as proof for your visa application.
Note: Our policies are generally renewable. If plans change (as they often do), you can extend policies from a minimum of 5 days up to 12 months.
Coverage is available up to $100,000 for persons in their 70s and up to $50,000 for persons in their 80s.
Use our search engine to find the best prices based on age and deductible.
The deductible on a comprehensive travel insurance USA policy is generally a one-time payment for any medical expenses (doctor visit, ER visit, medications, etc.).
A higher deductible results in a lower premium cost, so balance what you can pay in case of medical attention versus monthly/day cost.
When purchasing US travel insurance, use your Canadian address as your "home" or "residence" address, regardless of owning a US home.
The "residence" country and "destination" country CANNOT be the same.
Choose a start date as the first day you need coverage. Even if you select a "trip end date," most policies can be extended without issue.
Important: Coverage for pre-existing conditions is very limited on most US visitor policies for foreign visitors.
Some policies cover the "acute onset" of pre-existing conditions (life-threatening emergencies), but most chronic and congenital disorders are excluded.
For cardiac coverage, consider:
While traveling in the US always carries some risk, travelers do have travel insurance options.
Compare US travel insurance for Canada and select a plan that best fits your needs.
✅ As ever, we wish you safe and happy travels!
Why Buy Snowbird Travel Insurance from American Visitor Insurance?
American Visitor Insurance serves as a one-stop destination for Snowbird coverage.
American Visitor Insurance partners with top-rated U.S. insurers including International Medical Group (IMG), Trawick International, and Global Underwriters we provide Canadians with the best Snowbird travel insurance options conveniently in one place.
🧭 Compare and Buy with Confidence
Use our easy online compare engine to review several top insurance plans side by side and choose the best snowbird insurance coverage for your travel schedule, budget, and medical needs for destinations across the US, Mexico, the Caribbean, and other warm-weather regions.
🏖️ Trusted by Thousands of Snowbirds Every Year
American Visitor Insurance has been offering Snowbird insurance for nearly two decades now providing thousands of Canadian and international snowbirds easy purchase insurance options through our platform before heading south for extended stays in Florida, Arizona, Texas, Mexico, or island getaways in the Caribbean.
🤝 Expert Customer Support
Our licensed knowledgeable customer support team helps travelers understand coverage options, policy benefits, and claim procedures so you can make informed decisions with complete peace of mind.
🌎 Comprehensive Global Protection
Enjoy medical coverage for emergencies, hospital care, and evacuation, backed by leading international insurers and extensive PPO networks across North America and beyond.
⚡ Simple, Hassle-Free Experience
Compare, choose, and buy your plan online at American Visitor Insurance in minutes with 24/7 assistance available whenever you need help during your travels.
Which Pre-Existing Conditions Are Covered by US Travel Insurance?
A long-term or ongoing condition that existed prior to coverage and is generally managed over time
Diabetes, hypertension, chronic kidney disease
Some visitor insurance plans cover acute onset of certain pre-existing conditions but do not cover chronic management.
Is It Worth Buying Annual Travel Insurance for Canadians?
There are many Canadians who travel to the US and elsewhere outside Canada regularly. These travelers can be businessmen, corporate travelers, or those who live close to the US border and travel overseas often.
While there are many top-rated travel health insurance plans for multiple trips worldwide, the Patriot Multi-Trip travel insurance is an ideal plan for Canadian travelers.
Every trip can be limited to either 30 days or 45 days with a medical coverage maximum of $1 million. Travelers up to the age of 76 years can buy this plan. The plan is renewable up to 3 years and also offers coverage for pre-existing conditions.
Best Snowbird Travel Insurance - FAQ's
1. Will my Canadian health insurance cover me in the US?
No, Please note that the Canadian Government website clearly states that Canadian health insurance is not valid outside Canada and it is recommended to buy U.S. health insurance for Canadian snowbirds.
2. Can Canadians buy US health insurance? Can Canadians buy health insurance in the US?
Yes, there are some health insurance plans available for Canadian visitors to the USA offered by INF. To find the best travel insurance for seniors or Canadian snowbirds, relevant information can be found at older traveler US health insurance for Canadian snowbirds plans.
The travel insurance for Canadian seniors visiting USA with pre-existing medical conditions includes the medical maximum health insurance for Canadian seniors travelling to the USA available for their age in these Snowbird destinations. It is important to understand the different US health insurance for Canadian snowbirds and make an informed decision while buying snowbird health insurance for Canadians traveling into the US.
For Canadians who want to visit the US multiple times within a year, they can consider buying the Annual Multi-Trip Plan, which provides coverage for the whole year with a specific time period limit for each trip (30, 45, 60 days depending on the plan). This option is cheaper than buying US health insurance for Canadian citizens snowbirds for every single trip and is most suitable for people making multiple trips for business.
If an individual is a dual citizen with Canadian and US citizenship, they can buy insurance for visiting the US from Canada by entering Canada as the home country and the US as the country of citizenship in order to buy US travel insurance for his/her sojourn in the US.
3. Can snowbirds use their Canadian provincial health insurance while in the USA?
Canadian provincial health insurance provides only limited coverage outside the home country. In most cases, it applies only for minor emergency medical expenses such as hospitalization and does not cover outpatient care, prescription drugs, or emergency evacuation. Therefore, it is highly recommended to buy short-term or temporary medical insurance for Canadians in the USA.
4. Can I still get travel insurance for the USA?
Yes, travelers can buy travel insurance even if the trip has already started. However, coverage applies only for any illness or injury that occurs after the inception of the policy.
5. What do snowbirds do for medical insurance?
The primary purpose of Snowbird travel medical insurance is to cover your medical expenses (and some related travel costs) if you suffer an illness or injury while outside Canada that requires immediate medical attention and cannot wait until you return home.
6. Can a Snowbird visitor get health insurance in USA?
Yes. Snowbird visitors and tourists can purchase travel health insurance in the US. It is recommended to buy insurance from the day they leave their home country until they return. Most companies also allow purchasing travel insurance for Canadian snowbirds even after the journey has started.
7. How does Snowbird travel insurance work?
Snowbird travel medical insurance covers unexpected medical expenses while on your trip. Many travel insurance plans for Canadian Snowbirds also include coverage for baggage loss/delay, trip delays, and other benefits to assist travelers with unexpected problems such as loss of documents.
Since this insurance is meant for emergencies, you can use any doctor or hospital. In non-emergency situations, it is recommended to follow your plan documentation and try to stay in-network (if applicable) while in the US to help reduce out-of-pocket costs.
8. Do Snowbird tourists need travel insurance?
Often, health insurance from a home country will not cover Snowbirds while traveling abroad. If visiting a country with high medical costs such as the US, travelers should consider purchasing international travel insurance. Travel health insurance for Canadian Snowbird tourists helps defray medical costs and often includes additional travel benefits like trip delay, trip interruption, and baggage loss, assisting travelers in staying on track during their trip.
9. How much travel insurance do Snowbird travelers need?
The maximum coverage of health insurance for Snowbird travelers depends on the destination. For example, $50,000 may be sufficient for trips to Europe or the Philippines. For travel to the US, consider a much higher maximum ($500,000 or $1 million) due to the higher potential cost of health insurance for Canadian snowbirds.
10. What are the important tips for buying Snowbird travel insurance?
Purchase Snowbird travel insurance to USA before leaving Canada.
11. What happens if a Snowbird tourist gets sick in USA?
Snowbird tourists can use urgent care clinics, visit a doctor’s office, or go to the hospital if needed. However, they must pay out-of-pocket for all medical care. This is why it’s recommended to have travel or US tourist health insurance for Snowbirds during their stay.
12. How long do Snowbirds have to stay in Canada?
Snowbirds must be physically present in Canada for at least 183 days in a 12-month period. It is important to consult a qualified immigration or legal professional to understand full requirements.
13. How long can a Canadian Snowbird stay out of the country?
Canadian Snowbirds can stay outside Canada for up to six months at a time without losing their status as a Canadian resident. It is important to have good travel medical insurance while outside Canada, especially when traveling to the US, where healthcare costs are very high.
14. Can I get Snowbird travel insurance if I have a pre-existing medical condition?
Yes, you can get snowbird travel insurance if you have a pre-existing medical condition. Coverage depends on the specific condition and the insurance plan. Some providers offer full coverage for pre-existing conditions, others cover only the acute onset of pre-existing conditions, and some may have exclusions or limitations.
15. Can I buy Snowbird insurance after leaving Canada?
Yes, some insurance companies allow you to purchase travel medical insurance for Snowbirds after leaving Canada. However, it is highly recommended to buy coverage prior to leaving Canada to avoid waiting periods and exclusions for conditions diagnosed or started during any period of uninsured medical care.
If purchased after departure, your coverage period may begin only after a waiting period (usually 48 hours) and may include exclusions for any symptoms or illnesses that arose prior to the start of the policy.
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Ideal for Canadians living outside Canada for several months or longer. Provides comprehensive travel insurance including medical coverage, emergencies, hospital visits, and unexpected health issues while abroad.
Designed for Canadians who travel frequently for business or leisure. This travel insurance plan covers multiple trips in a year, including medical emergencies, trip interruptions, lost baggage, and other travel-related risks.
What Are the US Travel Insurance Plan Limitations for Travel From Canada?
These travel insurance to USA from Canada plans have certain
limitations for Canadian travelers and international students. Review the providers below before purchasing.
💡 LIMITATION: These plans are not available to individuals physically located in Canada at the time of purchase.
However, once you arrive in the USA, you can buy coverage. For example, if you extend your stay,
the Atlas plan can cover you until your return to Canada.
💡 LIMITATION: While Seven Corners offers these plans, they do not accept a Canadian residential address.
Customers may use their overseas home country address when applying.
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