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Best Snowbird travel insurance for Canadians

Canadian snowbird travel insurance cost

Age
Spouse
Start Date
End Date
Coverage Region
Including USA
Citizenship
Canadians
Patriot America Plus
Plan Maximum
Deductible
Pre-existing
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Safe Travels USA Comprehensive
Plan Maximum
Deductible
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Diplomat America
Plan Maximum
Deductible
Minimum Enrollment is 15 Days
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Visitors Protect
Plan Maximum
Deductible
Minimum Enrollment is 90 Days
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  Travel insurance providers
  Snowbird insurance coverage for acute onset of Pre-existing conditions
Acute onset of a pre-existing condition Up to maximum limit below age 70 Not Covered Acute onset of a pre-existing condition Up to maximum limit below age 70 Covers Acute onset of Pre-existing condition coverage up to 69 years the limit is up to the medical maximum purchased per period of coverage and for any coverage related to cardiac disease, coverage is limited to $25,000. 24 months waiting period Covers pre-existing conditions up to 99 years.This plan covers pre existing condition for age 69 and below up to $25,000 and for ages 70 and above it covers up to $20,000 with deductible up to $1,500.
  Travel insurance from Canada - Highlights
  • This is a comprehensive short-term travel medical plan.
  • US citizens and Non US citizens living abroad can buy this plan for visiting the US for short while.
  • The plan offers a benefit of copays of $25 for urgent care centers and $15 for walk-in clinics which are paid INSTEAD of the deductible each time these facilities are used. (when the $0 deductible is selected)
  • Short-term travel medical coverage.
  • Coverage for travelers outside their residence country whose destination excludes the US and its territories.
  • Patriot international insurance schengen visa is very popular among travelers visiting European countries and applying for Schengen Visa.
  • This is a comprehensive visitor insurance plan for visitors coming to the US and is available for B1 Visa holders for their business trips to the US.
  • This plan can be renewed for up to 2 years.
  • Patriot America offers coverage for adventure sports and other sports activities.
  • This includes coverage for medical accident and sickness, emergency medical and political evacuation, repatriation of remains, trip interruption, baggage, and accidental death & dismemberment.
  • Extendable with uninterrupted coverage for up to 24 consecutive months.
  • Sports Activity Coverage available.
The Diplomat America plan is designed to cover Non-U.S. residents traveling to the United States
  • Accident and sickness plan that covers you inside the United States (15 days up to 365 days)
  • The plan covers 80% of eligible expenses up to $5000 and then covers 100% after the deductible
The plan is ideal for visitors traveling from their home country to the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.
  • Limited pre-existing condition coverage.
  • Care Clix consultation is a new benefit under this plan where you can get access to a doctor by different means like a video chat , mobile app, phone.
Canada to USA travel insurance - Brochure & Details links

Who are Snowbirds?

Snowbirds are individuals who migrate from colder northern regions like Canada to warmer southern areas during the winter months. Snowbirds are younger retirees or older adults from Canada who seek to avoid the severe winter conditions by spending time in places like Florida, Arizona, or even Mexico and the Caribbean. Snowbirds can also include younger people, like seasonal workers or those with flexible jobs, who travel south to follow the tourist season. Snowbirds return to their northern homes in the spring, staying connected with family and friends while enjoying the benefits of warmer climates during the winter.

Due to the high medical costs in the U.S., it is crucial for Canadian seniors visiting the USA to purchase the best Snowbird travel insurance through American Visitor Insurance. Please feel free to contact us at (877)-340-7910 or email us to get help from one of our licensed agents in finding the best Snowbird travel medical insurance for the USA.

What is snowbird travel medical insurance?

Snowbird travel medical insurance plans are designed for Canadians mostly retirees who spends their extended stay during the winter month in the warmer destinations like the USA. It provides coverage for unexpected medical emergencies that occur during the stay outside Canada. Travel medical insurance for Canadians in USA plans offer flexible coverage limits ranging from $25,000 to $8 million and policies can last as short as 5 days or up to 3 years. Deductibles can be as low as $0 or as high as $5,000 with options for per incident or per policy period deductibles.

It usually does not cover routine checkups, ongoing treatment of chronic conditions. Snowbird insurance helps protect seniors from high out-of-pocket expenses, especially in countries like the US where healthcare is costly. You can compare benefits, insurance cost and buy the best U.S. health insurance for Canadian snowbirds at American Visitor Insurance.

Do Canadians need Snowbird travel insurance?

During winter, many Canadians particularly senior citizens travel to southern countries where the weather is warmer and more pleasant. These Canadian travelers are commonly known as Snowbirds.

Since domestic health insurance in Canada does not offer coverage outside Canada’s border, buying proper overseas travel insurance from Canada is recommended by the Canadian government authorities. Healthcare expenses in the US and Europe is very high and it is risky to be uninsured while traveling in those countries.

Travel health insurance for Canadian snowbirds

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 premium cost of the U.S. health insurance for Canadian snowbirds isn't fixed and varies based on several factors like the age of the individual, the duration of the travel and stay, coverage needed, policy maximum amount chosen, deductible chosen and hence is a variable factor. Each plan offers different benefits. Travel Insurance plans come in two types. One is a fixed benefit plan and the other is a comprehensive plan. Fixed benefit plans specify the charge for the specific limit while the comprehensive plans extend the coverage to policy maximum limit.

How much does the most affordable American health insurance for Canadians cost?

The most affordable Canadian medical insurance in USA starts from $20 per month with options up to $155 per month. The cost depends on the age of the visitor, medical maximum coverage and deductible. The average cost of fixed benefit visitors travel insurance for USA is based on quotes for one month.

Plan Name Plan max range Deductible Age 40 Age 60 Age 70
Safe Travels Advantage $25,000 - $150,000 $0 $20 - $58 $39 - $102 $60 - $166
Visitors care $25,000 - $100,000 $100 $25 - $47 $40 - $75 $66 - $152
Venbrook Essential $25,000 - $150,000 $0 $26 - $81 $49 - $124 $68 - $147
Safe Travels Elite $25,000 - $175,000 $0 $26 - $76 $50 - $134 $109 - $155

Source: American Visitor Insurance®

How much does the comprehensive and best travel insurance for Canadians in USA cost?

The best travel insurance cost for USA ranges from $71 to $353 per month. The cost depends on the age of the visitor, medical maximum coverage and deductible. The average cost of comprehensive travel insurance for USA is based on quotes for one month with $250 deductible.

What is the cheapest US medical insurance for Canadian snowbirds?

The cheapest US medical insurance for Canadian snowbirds is Safe Travels Advantage plan, starting at around $20 per month. Other affordable short term travel insurance options are the Venbrook Essential plan from Venbrook International, starting at $25 per month and Visitors Care plan starts at $27 per month based different coverage options on American Visitor Insurance. These average cost of short term medical insurance are based on a 40-year-old traveler. All three plans provide essential medical coverage for travelers, making them cost-effective choices for temporary stays in the USA.

Safe Travels Advantage
Trawick International

$20 Per month

Age: 40 years | Plan: $25,000 | Deductible: $0

  • Policy maximum limits ranges from $25,000 to $150,000
  • Deductible option $0
  • Coverage from 5 - 364 days
  • Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions related to Cardiac Conditions or Stroke
picture_as_pdfBrochure shopping_cart Buy now

Venbrook Essential
Venbrook International

$25 Per month

Age: 40 years | Plan: $25,000 | Deductible: $0

  • Policy maximum limits ranges from $25,000 to $150,000
  • Deductible options $0
  • Coverage from 5 days - 12 months
  • Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions coverage up to policy maximum
picture_as_pdfBrochure shopping_cart Buy now

Visitors Care
IMG

$27 Per month

Age: 40 years | Plan: $25,000 | Deductible: $0

  • Policy maximum limits ranges from $25,000 to $100,000
  • Deductible options $0 to $100
  • Coverage from 5 days - 2 years
  • Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions coverage
picture_as_pdfBrochure shopping_cart Buy now

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:

Safe Travels USA Comprehensive

  • Travel medical insurance plan for non-U.S. citizens visiting USA.
  • Covers acute onset of pre-existing conditions up to age 69, with a medical maximum limit. Cardiac disease coverage is covered up to $25,000.
  • Emergency medical treatment of pregnancy covered up to $1,000.
  • Offers optional coverage for sports activity rider.
  • request_quote

    Medical maximum
    $50,000, $100,000, $250,000, $500,000, $1,000,000

  • calendar_month

    Period of Coverage
    5 days to 364 days

  • description

    Deductible options
    $0, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, $2,500, $5,000

Patriot America Plus

  • Best plan for Canadians traveling to United States.
  • Covers acute on set of pre-existing conditions up to 70 years. $25,000 for emergency evacuation.
  • Urgent Care Clinic covered up to $25 copay.
  • Offers optional coverage for adventure sports rider.
  • request_quote

    Medical maximum
    $50,000, $100,000, $500,000, $1,000,000

  • calendar_month

    Period of Coverage
    5 days to 12 months

  • description

    Deductible options
    $0, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, $2,500

Diplomat America

  • Ideal for individuals traveling outside their home country and within the USA.
  • Covers acute on set of pre-existing conditions up to 70 years. $25,000 for emergency evacuation.
  • Optional coverage for athletic and hazardous sports.
  • Minimum purchase is 15 days.
  • request_quote

    Medical maximum
    $50,000, $100,000, $250,000, $500,000, $1,000,000

  • calendar_month

    Period of Coverage
    15 days to 365 days.

  • description

    Deductible options
    $0, $50, $100, $250, $500, $1,000, $2,500, $5,000

Visitors Protect

  • Ideal for individuals and families traveling from their home country to the U.S.
  • Pre-existing conditions covered up to 99 years.
  • Emergency medical evacuation up to $25,000.
  • Urgent care covered up to $25 copay
  • request_quote

    Medical maximum
    $50,000, $100,000, $250,000

  • calendar_month

    Period of Coverage
    90 days up to 12 months.

  • description

    Deductible options
    $250, $500, $1,000, $2,500, $5,000

What are the popular destinations among Canadian Snowbirds?

Mexico travel Insurance for Canadians

Mexico is a very attractive destination for Canadian snowbirds. The warm weather, beautiful sandy beaches, comparatively affordable cost of living and good access to travel back home to Canada makes Mexico very popular with Canadian Snowbirds.

Mexico is a beautiful vibrant country with a great cuisine and cultural diversity. The country is also home to many historic and cultural attractions.

Travel insurance to Mexico

The Yucatan peninsula with some amazing Mayan ruins is very popular. While all of this is attractive, older Canadians should be aware of the need for good Snowbird travel insurance for Mexico to shield them from unanticipated health emergencies.

The popular Snowbird travel health insurance plans that provide coverage for Canadians traveling to Mexico are Patriot International Lite, Safe Travels International and Travel Medical Choice. These travel health insurance for Canadian citizens cover medical emergencies and unexpected sickness and injury. They however have little coverage for trip interruption, baggage delay and loss.

To bridge that gap we also have trip cancellation insurance plans which provide trip cancellation, trip interruption, missed flight connection coverage...

Canadian Snowbirds to Caribbean

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.
Caribbean travel insurance
  • 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.

The popular Snowbird travel health insurance plans that provide coverage for Canadians traveling to Caribbean are Safe Travels International, Patriot International Lite and Patriot Platinum International.

What are the travel insurance tips for Canadian snowbirds?

Some of the travel insurance tips for Canadian snowbirds are:

  • Buy insurance before you leave Canada: Ensure your policy is in effect before your departure date to avoid any coverage gaps.
  • Get comprehensive emergency medical coverage: Make sure your policy includes high emergency medical limits (often offered from $1,000,000 to $8,000,000), including coverage for hospitalization, doctor visits, emergency medical evacuation, and repatriation in case of serious illness or injury.
  • Coverage for pre-existing conditions: Look for the visitor insurance plans that offer coverage for pre-existing conditions or acute onset of existing conditions as many Canadian snowbirds have ongoing health issues and also check how this impacts the cost.
  • Choose a right policy: For one extended winter stay, you can choose a single-trip plan. But if you travel frequently, an annual multi-trip plan which could be more cost-effective.
  • Compare quotes from multiple insurers: Get quotes from various reputable travel insurance providers to find the best cost, benefits and coverage designed for your travel needs.
  • Deductible options and Direct billing payments: Choose a deductible that fits your budget, higher deductibles decrease your premiums while increasing your out-of-pocket costs. Opt for plans that provide direct billing to avoid paying upfront and reduce the hassle of reimbursement.
  • Plan for extended days: Be sure your plan can be renewed or extended if your stay is extended due to weather, health, or family situations.
  • Understand policy limitations: Carefully review your travel insurance policy, so you know what is covered and what is excluded. Being aware of these limitations helps avoid unexpected out-of-pocket costs during emergencies.

How to compare and choose the best Canadian snowbirds travel insurance?

While comparing snowbird travel insurance costs, it's important to consider both the duration of your trip and the level of coverage needed. Some travel insurance providers offer coverage for pre-existing conditions, which is often a concern for elderly travelers.

Here is a detailed comparison guide to help you compare and buy the best affordable snowbird travel medical insurance:

Annual multi-trip vs single trip travel insurance

Compare Single trip vs multi trip travel insurance plans offered by US insurers.


Types of coverage to consider

  • Fixed benefit plans: Offers limited or basic coverage for essential medical emergencies with affordable premiums.
  • Comprehensive plans: Covers extensive coverage, with higher medical limits and covers medical expenses up to the plan maximum.

Some travel medical insurance providers offers coverage for adventures activities and pre-existing conditions which is essential for the 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 covers a wide range of medical services, tend to be more expensive than fixed benefit plans which has specific limit 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 add-on benefits to the basic insurance for tourist plan like adventure sports coverage, baggage loss, 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, flexible benefits- very for longer USA visits.
  • Global Underwriters: Know for providing reliable coverage for older visitors who may have pre-existing medical conditions. They are popular for both short and longer visits.
  • Trawick International: Offers comprehensive coverage, these plans include benefits designed to seniors and international visitors, including acute onset of pre-existing condition coverage.
  • INF Insurance: Specialized in providing travel medical insurance for older visitors with pre-existing conditions. INF travel insurance offers fixed benefit plans and comprehensive plans making them a great option for older Canadian travelers looking for good coverage.

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

  • At American Visitor Insurance we allow you to compare quotes from multiple insurance providers.
  • Before buying the plan, carefully review the policy details, exclusions, coverage limits, and claim procedures.
  • By carefully considering these factors and comparing options and quotes from multiple providers, 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 and for coverage for 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 gets damaged with our personal items.Similarly coverage for personal liability is helpful in case we cause injury accidentally to someone or damaged their property accidentally.Coverage for travel delays and missed connections will be relieving when there is coverage for additional expenses incurred due to these factors.
  • 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 of the stay during winter. Therefore, check to see if the travel insurance plan is renewable. Comparing different plans and their costs will help to 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 read the customer reviews to see if the provider is a reputed provider.

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 list of factors mentioned above. Customers can visit our visitor medical insurance where you can find pre-existing travel health insurance and senior travel insurance pages to get good insight on the 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, arranging transportation, and ensuring all necessary documents are in order.
  • Buy travel insurance: Choose a comprehensive snowbird travel insurance plan that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and coverage for pre-existing conditions.
  • Health Precautions: Carry enough medications and know local medical facilities.
  • Know health care options: Find hospitals and urgent care centers near your travel destination.
  • Understand local laws: Get familiar with the local laws, customs, and traffic laws to avoid any legal issues.
  • Travel Safety: Be aware and carry copies of ID card, insurance policy and valuables secure.
  • Plan Activities: Research and plan activities you want to enjoy during your stay. Whether it's sightseeing, attending local events, or socializing with fellow snowbirds, having a plan can make your trip more enjoyable.
  • Register with Canadian government (ROCA): To ensure you're 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 to their needs.

New travel requirement for Canadians visiting USA for more than 30 days

Starting April 11, 2025, 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.

Is it better to buy travel insurance from the USA or Canada?

  • PPO Network: Many US based insurance plans offer PPO networks, which gives access to direct billing facilities, where as in Europe, the insurance companies may not have PPO network in USA which will lead high out of pocket expense.
  • Wide network: Canadian insurance companies may have extensive networks within Canada making it easier to get coverage in North America.
  • Reimbursement basis: Many Canadian based insurance companies operate on reimbursement basis when claim is submitted which requires upfront payment out of pocket for medical services, whereas in the US insurance companies, there is an option of direct billing.
  • Cost of the plan: Insurance plans in Canada may be affordable but they might have limitations in their coverage, while the US insurance companies offer comprehensive plans where the coverage is flexible and extensive.
  • Customer Service: US insurance companies offer local customer service, which makes it easier to handle claims and get assistance, while the Canadian companies offer bilingual customer service which is beneficial to travelers from diverse backgrounds.
  • Regulations: US Insurance plans follow strict Government regulations and honor the policy terms.

How much does healthcare in the US cost?

Naturally, the first thing one thinks about when planning a trip is not how much a trip in that country’s ER will cost you. However, we do 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 regularly impoverish under-uninsured and uninsured people in the US. It is not a great state of affairs, but at the moment, this is a reality.

The cost of a routine physician's visit is significantly higher in the U.S., where it might be $176. An echocardiogram can cost around $1,000 in Massachusetts and around $3000 in New Jersey depending on the provider. The cost of common ailments like Diabetes Mellitus with Hyperglycemia admitted to an emergency room would cost around $2,500 - $5000. Stroke resulting in ICU for about 10 days would cost $120,000, Heart attack treatment with medical bills for ambulance, hospital emergency room, ICU, EKG and MRI heart scans and continuing care from cardiologists would cost about $20,000, the average treatment cost of acute kidney failure in the USA was over $22,000.

While there are several reasons for high healthcare costs, the fact remains that one cannot afford to be uninsured while visiting the US. In US hospitals the cost for any treatment is much lower if you have insurance and the hospital is part of the PPO network when compared to getting the same treatment without any insurance. This is beyond the actual insurance coverage itself, so simply having visitors insurance reduces the bill substantially. This high price without insurance is unimaginable for visitors to pay out of their pocket. It is important for Canadians to realize the importance of health insurance while visiting the US.

You must be very careful and bring any prescription medication as well as a prescription or copy of such so that you can show that you have good reason to have medications with you. There are lower cost “Urgent Care” centers that can be used for sudden, non-life threatening situations that will be cheaper and quicker than trying to visit a hospital emergency room. They can assess the situation and often treat the situation quickly and efficiently. They also are open beyond “normal” doctor hours (why do these things seem to always happen on Sunday afternoons?) which can be helpful to be aware of.

Here at American Visitor Insurance, we have many Canada to USA travel insurance plans from reputable US insurance companies who help travelers from Canada 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 US?

The United States of America attracts hundreds of thousands of Canadian snowbirds each year. Canadian Snowbirds are travelers who migrate to the US during winter from northern parts of North America to warmer southern locations. These snowbirds travel south, mainly to warmer regions in the United States like Florida, Arizona, California and Texas.

They spend their winter months in the US and return to Canada afterward. Traditionally, snowbirds are retirees seeking to avoid the cold and snow of winter, while still maintaining connections with family and friends by residing in Canada for the remainder of the year. The snowbird lifestyle is evolving, with an increase in snowbirds across various age groups, including some businessmen.

In recent years, younger groups with jobs often migrate southward and business men also have their second home in warmer locations. The report from Statistics Canada confirms that there are at least 375,000 Snowbirds who go to the United States and Mexico each year. The travel pattern holds true for many Canadian snowbirds travelling back and forth multiple times during the winter.

Along with Snowbirds many Canadians travel between the US and Canada in search of goods and deals across the border for most goods mainly alcohol and gasoline. The US also welcomes the cross border shopping by Canadians and it’s quite popular even before online shopping.

90% of Canada’s population lives within 100 miles of the US border making it is very easier for people to just hoping to the car for cross border shopping. According to October 2018 “Cross-Border E-Commerce Shopper Survey” 53% of cross-border buyers in Canada obtained goods from the US.

Travelling back and forth multiple times as snowbirds and travelling for cross border shopping one must be cautious, travelers must keep in mind the medical emergencies that might arise while traveling. The healthcare system in the US is expensive, in particular its healthcare system which in case of an injury or illness can cause huge financial loss.

Health insurance for Canadian in US will cover you for all unforeseen medical emergencies that may occur during travel to the US. Purchasing travel insurance is very important for a stress free travel. You can view insurance quotes from some of the best US insurance providers and make the best choice according to your requirements. For any assistance you can call our customer service or email us and we will be glad to help you.

There are no restrictions related to Covid to US visitors and the ban to US visitors has been lifted and travel industry has regained its strength to travel from Canada to the US.

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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?

Health insurance for Canadians in USA cannot be used if you are living outside of Canada for an extended period or permanently. Consider taking a good look at the insurance needs in case you are living abroad, or you are planning to live abroad. Local Insurance laws might need you to have a travel medical insurance as a proof with your visa application

Note that our policies are generally renewable, so if plans change (as they so often do these days), the policies can be extended (minimum of 5 days and up to 12 months). Policies are available up to $100,000 for persons in their 70s and up to $50,000 for persons in their 80s. You can use our search engine to determine the best prices for you based on age and deductible you'd like.

The deductible on a comprehensive travel insurance USA policy is generally a one-time payment if there are any medical expenses (doctor visit, ER visit, medications, etc). A higher deductible will give a lower premium cost, so it is a balance of what you feel you can pay out in the unlikely event you will need medical attention, and how much the policy costs you per month and day.

When you purchase the US travel insurance policy, you will enter your Canadian address as your "home" or "residence" address regardless of whether you own a home in the US or not. The "residence" country and the "destination" country CANNOT be the same. Then, you can choose the start date (even if it says trip start date) as the first day you need the policy. And, even though you choose an "Trip end date" you can always extend most policies without issue (just do not wait until they have expired).

Unfortunately, insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions is very limited on most US visitor policies for foreign visitors. Some policies will cover "acute onset" of pre-existing conditions which should mean life-threatening emergencies due to pre-existing conditions, but they have all recently excluded chronic and congenital disorders from that coverage. As a non-medical person, I'm not sure what illnesses/disorders that leaves that WOULD be covered. The Safe Travels Elite (a fixed plan) and Safe Travels Comprehensive offers some coverage $25,000 or $15,000 for a cardiac issue. The Elite insurance, Elite Plus insurance, Elite 90 insurance, Premier Plus insurance and Premier insurance are cheaper per month if you purchase at least 90 days the first time you buy them.

While there will always be some risk involved while traveling and staying in the US, travelers do have travel insurance options for visiting the US. Compare US travel insurance for Canada and buy the plan that best fits your needs.

As ever, we wish you safe and happy travels!

Which pre-existing conditions are covered by US travel insurance?

How does travel insurance for pre-existing conditions work?

The travel health insurance plans which cover pre-existing conditions have clear definitions of what is a pre-existing condition, the look back period for pre-existing condition, whether the travel insurance coverage is limited to acute onset of pre-existing conditions, and if it provides full coverage for pre-existing conditions the coverage limit within the policy for pre-existing conditions. Any travel health insurance coverage for pre-existing conditions will depend on all these.

How do I know if my pre-existing condition is covered by travel insurance?

Unfortunately, this simple question has a fairly complicated answer. The answer is: it depends. Firstly, it depends on whether you are a US resident traveling outside the US or a visitor to the US. US residents can purchase trip cancellation insurance that can cover pre-existing conditions and even plans that are travel medical only without cancellation often are more generous in their coverage of pre-existing conditions. These plans may have specific requirements in order to waive the usual exclusion of coverage for pre-existing conditions (like purchase them within a certain number of days of your initial trip deposit or that you have a primary domestic insurance plan in the US), so you should check these details carefully if this is important to you.

Non-US residents or US residents traveling into the US have much more limited options to insure their pre-existing conditions are covered. Some plans offer coverage for "acute onset" of pre-existing conditions. However, this is misleading, since a careful look at their definition excludes chronic or congenital disorders from such coverage. Chronic illnesses are those that worsen over time and congenital disorders are issues one is born with. They exclude emergencies due to chronic illness because they will say that is not "acute" it is simply a worsening of your condition.

Travel Insurance - Pre-existing conditions coverage

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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 or 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 duration 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 to make an informed decision while buying snowbird health insurance for Canadians traveling into US.

For Canadians who want to visit the US multiple times within a year, they can consider buying the Annual multi trip plan which will provide coverage for the whole year with a specific time period limit for each trip like 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, then the person can buy insurance for visiting US from Canada by entering Canada as the home country and 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 provide only limited coverage outside the home country. In most cases, this coverage 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 USA.

4. Can I still get travel insurance for the USA?

Yes, travelers can buy travel insurance if the traveler has already started a trip. However travelers should keep in mind that the cover is provided for any illness or injury that occurs after the inception of the policy.

5. What do snowbirds do for medical insurance?

The sole 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 can not wait until you are able to return to Canada.

6. Can a snowbird visitor get health insurance in USA?

Yes. Snowbird Visitors and tourists can all buy travel health insurance in the US. We recommend the travel insurance for Canadian snowbird visitors to be purchased from the day they leave their home country until they return, however, most companies allow you to purchase it even after the traveler has already started their journey.

7. How does Snowbird travel insurance work?

Snowbird travel medical insurance is for unexpected medical expenses while on your trip. Many travel insurance for Canadian Snowbirds also cover baggage loss/ delay, trip delays, and have other benefits to help travelers with unexpected problems (loss of documents, etc). Since they are meant to be used in an emergency, you can use any doctor/hospital. In a non-emergency situation, you should consult your documentation and try to stay in-network (if applicable) while in the US since this will likely help defray your out-of-pocket cost.

8. Do Snowbird tourists need travel insurance?

Often health insurance from a home country will not cover Snowbirds while they are traveling in a different country. If they are in a country with high medical costs such as the US, they should consider purchasing international travel insurance in case they should need any medical care. The travel health insurance for Canadian Snowbird tourists will help defray costs and also often has many travel benefits (trip delay, trip interruption, baggage loss) that will also assist a traveler in getting back on track with their trip.

9. How much travel insurance do Snowbird travelers need?

The maximum of the health insurance for Snowbird travelers will depend on where they are going. For example, if they are headed to Europe or the Philippines, $50,000 may be enough for your trip. If they are going to the US, you may opt for a much higher maximum ($500,0000 or $1 million) if possible due to the higher potential cost of health insurance for Canadian snowbirds.

10. What are the important tips for buying snowbird travel insurance?

Some important tips for Canadian snowbird

11. What happens if a Snowbird tourist gets sick in USA?

Snowbird Tourists can use Urgent Care clinics, make appointments at a doctor's office or go the the hospital, if needed. However, they will have to pay out-of-pocket for any and all medical care they receive. This is why we recommend getting a travel or US tourist health insurance for Snowbirds for the duration of 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 however important for Snowbirds to consult a qualified immigration or legal professional to understand the 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 however important to have good travel medical insurance while outside Canada since your Canadian health insurance will not be available outside the country. This is particularly true for travel to the United States where the cost of healthcare is very expensive.

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, the coverage for the pre-existing condition will depend on the specific condition and the insurance plan and provider. Some insurance providers offer coverage for pre-existing medical conditions, others offer coverage only for acute onset of pre-existing conditions, while some others may have exclusions or limitations on coverage related to pre-existing conditions.

15. Can I buy snowbird insurance after leaving Canada?

Yes, some insurance companies will allow you to buy travel medical insurance for snowbirds after you have left Canada. However we recommend that you purchase coverage prior to leaving Canada to ensure that your insurance does not have any waiting periods and does not have exclusions for conditions that were diagnosed or started during your period of uninsured medical care. If you purchase after departure, your coverage period may start after a waiting period (normally 48 hours) and will usually include exclusions for any symptoms or illnesses that arose prior to the insurance policy starting.

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Canadians Annual travel insurance

Provides coverage for multiple trips within a specified period, typically one year.

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Provides coverage for individuals with pre-existing medical conditions, particularly for "snowbirds".

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What are the US travel insurance plan limitations for travel from Canada?

These travel insurance to USA from Canada plans have limitations for travelers or students located in Canada:

LIMITATION: These plans are not available to individuals who are physically located in Canada at the time of purchase. However, you can buy this plan or arrival in the US (if for example, you stay longer than expected, the Atlas plan can be purchased to cover you until your return to Canada).

LIMITATION: If physically located in Canada, you are prohibited to purchase these plans.

LIMITATION: Seven Corners offers these plans. However these plans do not accept an address in Canada. Customer may use overseas home country address.

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Which providers offer Canadian medical insurance in the USA?

You can find reliable US insurance providers like International Medical Group(IMG), Global Underwriters, Trawick International and INF insurance.

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