Best Health Insurance for Canadian Snowbirds
Snowbird health insurance is a travel medical insurance designed for Canadians who spend extended periods in warmer U.S. destinations during the winter. Affordable US medical insurance for Canadians
can start at less than $1 per day and help cover emergency medical expenses, hospitalization, and eligible acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
Canadian provincial health plans offer limited coverage in the U.S., making snowbird insurance essential, as a single ER visit can cost $10,000+.
Which Is the Best Travel Insurance to USA from Canada?
*Prices vary by age, travel duration, and coverage options.
Who Are Snowbirds?
Snowbirds are travelers who escape cold northern climates behind and head south for warmer weather during the winter months. Many Canadian snowbirds spend several weeks or months in destinations such as Florida, Arizona, Mexico, and the Caribbean seeking warmer temperatures, outdoor activities, and a more comfortable seasonal lifestyle
Common types of snowbirds include:
Retirees and Seniors
Most snowbirds have been retirees and older adults, typically between the ages of 50 and 70, who spend part of the year in warmer climates.
Families and Long-Term Travelers
Some families and long-term travelers choose extended winter stays during school breaks.
Remote Workers and Digital Nomads
Some snowbirds are younger professionals, digital nomads, and workers with flexible jobs who spend the winter in warmer destinations while continuing their careers.
Seasonal Residents
Many snowbirds spend several months in the same winter destination each year before returning home in the spring.
Regardless of their age or travel style, snowbirds often spend extended periods away from home, making US health insurance for Canadians an important part of planning a safe and worry-free winter stay.
Do Canadians Need Snowbird Travel Insurance?
Yes. Snowbird medical insurance is essential for Canadians who spend winters in warmer destinations like the USA, Mexico, or Europe.
The Canadian government recommends purchasing travel insurance for snowbirds before leaving the country.
local_hospital Real US Healthcare Costs
- ER visit: $1,500 - $5,000
- Heart attack (full treatment): $20,000+
- ICU stroke (10 days): $120,000+
- Kidney failure treatment: $22,000+
- Hip replacement: $35,000+
verified_user With Snowbird Insurance
- Pay only your deductible ($0-$500)
- Direct billing - no upfront payment
- Emergency evacuation covered
- Acute onset of pre-existing condition covered
- 24/7 multilingual support
American Visitor Insurance specializes in helping snowbirds find the right US medical insurance for Canadians for extended stays in the United States. Compare top A rated travel medical insurance for Canadians, coverage options, and benefits from leading insurance providers, including plans that cover eligible acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
Need help choosing a plan? Call us at (877) 340-7910. Our licensed insurance agents can help you compare snowbird medical insurance plans and find the coverage that best fits your travel needs and budget.
What is Snowbird Travel Medical Insurance?
Snowbird travel medical insurance is short-term health insurance designed for Canadians who travel outside Canada for extended stays. It helps cover unexpected medical expenses, including emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, and other eligible healthcare costs while abroad.
What does Snowbird Medical Insurance Covers?
- 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.
- Emergency medical evacuation
What It Does Not Cover?
- Routine medical checkups
- Preventive care
- Ongoing treatment of chronic conditions (unless specifically covered by the plan)
- Non-emergency medical expenses
How Much Does Snowbird Travel Insurance Cost Per Month in 2026?
The cost of travel insurance to USA from Canada depends on factors such as age of the traveler, duration of travel and stay, coverage needed, policy maximum amount chosen, and deductible selected.
Fixed benefit visitor insurance plans generally have lower premiums with limited coverage, while comprehensive travel health insurance plans provide broader medical coverage and higher policy maximums.
How much does the most affordable American health insurance for Canadians cost?
Cheapest American health insurance for Canadians can start at around $20 per month Safe Travels Advantage is one of the cheapest travel insurance to USA from less than $1/day for Canadian snowbirds and visitors seeking affordable coverage while traveling in the United States. Monthly premiums typically range from $20 to $155 based on the traveler and plan selected.
| Plan Name | Max Coverage | Deductible | Age 40 | Age 60 | Age 70 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safe Travels Advantage Trawick International |
$25,000 - $150,000 | $0 | $20 - $58 | $39 - $102 | $60 - $166 |
| Visitors Care IMG |
$25,000 - $100,000 | $100 | $24 - $47 | $40 - $75 | $66 - $152 |
| Safe Travels Elite Trawick International |
$25,000 - $175,000 | $0 | $26 - $76 | $50 - $134 | $109 - $155 |
How much does the comprehensive and best travel insurance for Canadians in USA cost?
Comprehensive travel insurance for Canadians visiting USA typically costs between $71 to $353 per month.
| Plan name | Max Coverage | Age 40 | Age 60 | Age 70 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Safe Travels USA Cost Saver Trawick International |
$50,000 - $1,000,000 | $71 - $117 | $139 - $250 | $237 - $299 |
| Patriot America Lite IMG |
$50,000 - $1,000,000 | $72 - $130 | $153 - $289 | $252 - $337 |
| Patriot America Plus IMG |
$50,000 - $1,000,000 | $77 - $139 | $164 - $311 | $287 - $434 |
| Safe Travels USA Comprehensive Trawick International |
$50,000 - $1,000,000 | $90 - $168 | $172 - $351 | $294 - $470 |
| SafeVista Protect INF Insurance |
$100,000 - $1,000,000 | $93 - $127 | $215 - $248 | $320 |
| TrueNorth Travel Medical Trawick International |
$50,00,000 | $126 | Not Available | Not Available |
| Diplomat America Global Underwriters |
$50,000 - $1,000,000 | $125 - $214 | $229 - $301 | $353 |
Prices verified for the 2026 travel season · Source: American Visitor Insurance®
What Is the Cheapest US Medical Insurance for Canadian Snowbirds?
The Cheapest US medical insurance for Canadians is the Safe Travels Advantage plan, starting at $20 per month.
Other affordable short-term travel insurance for Canadians to USA options include Visitors Care and Safe Travels Elite.
What Is the Best Travel Insurance for Snowbirds?
The Best Canadian snowbirds health insurance plans include Patriot America Plus, Safe Travels USA Comprehensive, SafeVista Protect, and Diplomat America.
Given the high cost of healthcare in the United States, it is important to choose the best medical insurance for visitors to USA from Canada that offers comprehensive medical coverage, emergency medical evacuation, and coverage for eligible acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
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 Best Travel Insurance for Canadian Seniors with Pre-existing Conditions?
The best travel insurance for Canadian seniors with pre-existing conditions includes INF Elite X, INF Premier X and Visitors Protect. INF Elite X and INF Premier X offer coverage for full pre-existing medical conditions for travelers up to age 99, making them excellent options for seniors seeking comprehensive protection. Visitors Protect also provides coverage for eligible pre-existing conditions up to age 99 and is a popular choice among elderly Canadian travelers. These plans are among the top choices for Canadian snowbird with pre-existing medical conditions visiting the USA.
INF Insurance
INF Elite X
INF Elite X is the best travel insurance for Canadian seniors with pre-existing medical conditions visiting the USA. The plan offers coverage for full pre-existing conditions for travelers up to age 99, making it one of the most comprehensive options available for Canadian senior travelers.
$75,000 (70-79)
INF Insurance
INF Premier X
INF Premier X is one of the best affordable pre-existing condition travel insurance for Canadian seniors visiting the USA. The plan provides coverage for full pre-existing medical conditions for travelers up to age 99, including future unexpected medical emergencies related to those conditions.
$100,000 (70-79)
IMG
Visitors Protect
Visitors Protect Insurance is one of the best travel insurance for elderly Canadian travelers with pre-existing conditions visiting the USA. The plan offers temporary medical insurance coverage for eligible pre-existing conditions for travelers up to age 99, making it a strong option for seniors seeking comprehensive protection.
$50,000 (70-79)
How to compare travel insurance for snowbirds?
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:
Annual Multi-Trip vs Single Trip Travel Insurance
Single Trip Travel Insurance
Single trip travel insurance: Best for a single extended trip to a specific destination.
Multi-Trip Travel Insurance
Multi-trip travel insurance: Best for frequent travelers. Offers coverage for multiple short trips within a year and is often more cost-effective.
Compare Single trip vs multi trip travel insurance plans offered by US insurers.
Types of Coverage to Consider
Fixed Benefit Plans
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 Do in a Medical Emergency?
In a life-threatening emergency, call 911 or go to the nearest emergency room without delay.
Call your travel insurance provider's 24/7 assistance number as soon as possible. They can help locate in-network providers, coordinate care, and explain your coverage.
Present your insurance ID card at the hospital, urgent care center, or doctor's office. In-network providers may bill the insurer directly, while others may require payment upfront.
Save itemized bills, receipts, prescriptions, medical reports, and doctor's notes, as these documents may be required for claim processing.
If you paid for treatment yourself, submit a claim with all supporting documents. Most insurers allow claims to be filed online, by email, or by mail.
Having the right US health insurance for Canadian citizens through American Visitor Insurance helps access medical care quickly and reduce unexpected out-of-pocket expenses during their stay in the United States.
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.
Extended U.S. Stays
If you remain in the U.S. longer than your visa privileges allow, you may face immigration and tax-related obligations.
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.
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.
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.
- 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.
Does Snowbird Insurance Cover Pre-Existing Conditions?
Most US health insurance for Canadian snowbirds plans cover the acute onset of pre-existing conditions, which means a sudden and unexpected flare-up that requires emergency medical treatment. However, they do not cover routine care or ongoing management of chronic conditions.
Travelers seeking more comprehensive pre-existing condition coverage may consider INF Premier X or INF Elite X plans, which offer broader benefits at a higher cost.
Acute Onset Coverage
- Included in most snowbird insurance plans
- Covers sudden medical emergencies related to a pre-existing condition
- Lower premiums
- Suitable for most healthy travelers and seniors
Popular Plans: Patriot America Plus, Safe Travels USA Comprehensive, Diplomat America
Full Pre-Existing Coverage
- Covers eligible pre-existing conditions beyond emergency flare-ups
- Includes broader protection for travelers with ongoing health concerns
- Available up to age 99 on select plans
- Higher premiums but more comprehensive coverage
Popular Plans: INF Premier X, INF Elite X, INF Elite X Plus
Which Pre-Existing Conditions Are Covered by US Travel Insurance?
What Makes Snowbird Insurance Unique?
While a standard vacation is often brief, snowbirds will generally spend 3-6 months outside of Canada, which means:
What Should Canadian Snowbirds Consider Before Buying Travel Insurance for the US?
Ensure that the travel health insurance plan provides comprehensive flexible coverage for sickness and injuries, including emergency medical evacuation and repatriation.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Is It Better to Buy Travel Insurance from the USA or Canada?
Choosing whether to buy travel insurance from the USA or Canada depends on factors such as PPO network access, reimbursement methods, plan cost, and customer service support. Here’s a detailed comparison
| Feature | Travel Insurance from USA | Travel Insurance from Canada |
|---|---|---|
| PPO Network Access | Many US-based insurance plans offer PPO networks with direct billing facilities, reducing out-of-pocket expenses for travelers. Popular networks include UnitedHealthcare PPO and First Health PPO. | Some Canadian or non-US insurance companies may have limited PPO network access in the USA, which can increase upfront medical costs. |
| Healthcare Network Coverage | US insurance companies provide access to extensive healthcare networks across the United States. | Canadian insurance companies often have strong healthcare support within Canada and North America. |
| Claims & Reimbursement | Many travel insurance for Canadians to USA plans offer direct billing and cashless treatment options for easier claims handling. | Many Canadian insurance companies work on a reimbursement basis, requiring travelers to pay first and submit claims later. |
| Cost of the Plan | Many medical insurance for Canadian tourists in United States plans start from less than $1/day and often include comprehensive coverage, higher policy maximums, and flexible benefit options. | Canadian travel insurance plans can sometimes be more affordable but may include coverage limitations, reimbursement-based claims, or lower benefit amounts. |
| Customer Service | US insurance companies provide local customer support and faster assistance for claims in the United States. | Canadian companies often provide bilingual customer service, which may benefit travelers from diverse backgrounds. |
For Canadian snowbirds spending extended periods in the United States, U.S.-based travel medical insurance plans often provide broader healthcare network access, easier claims processing through direct billing, and more flexible coverage options.
Snowbird Insurance for Popular Winter Destinations
Mexico - A Top Choice for Canadian Snowbirds
Mexico is one of the most popular winter destinations for Canadian snowbirds. To help protect against unexpected medical expenses and emergencies while abroad, Canadian travelers should consider purchasing reliable health insurance for Canadian visitors to USA.
Canadian snowbirds choose Mexico for:
- wb_sunny Year-round sunshine and mild winter temperatures
- beach_access Beautiful beaches, coastal resorts, and vibrant communities
- payments A lower cost of living compared to many U.S. destinations
- flight_takeoff Convenient flights and easy travel connections to Canada
- restaurant Rich culture, world-class cuisine, and historic attractions such as the Mayan ruins and colonial cities
Why Canadian Snowbirds Need Travel Insurance for Mexico?
While healthcare in Mexico can be more affordable than in the United States, unexpected medical emergencies, hospital stays, and medical evacuations can still be expensive. Travel insurance from Canada to Mexico helps Canadian Snowbirds protect from unexpected medical costs while away from home.
The best Canadian snowbirds health insurance to Mexico available on American Visitor Insurance include Patriot International Lite and Safe Travels International.
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.
- 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 for Canadian Snowbird travel to Caribbean destinations are Safe Travels International, Patriot International Lite and Patriot Platinum International.
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.
What Are the Top Travel Tips for Snowbirds?
Here are some important tips for a safe and enjoyable snowbirds season:
Travel Insurance Tips for Canadian Snowbirds
Ensure a safe and worry-free winter in the sun with these essential travel insurance tips tailored for Canadian snowbirds:
Ensure your policy is active before leaving Canada to avoid any coverage gaps during your trip.
Look for high emergency medical limits (from $1,000,000 to $8,000,000) covering hospitalization, doctor visits, medical evacuation, and repatriation.
Choose plans covering pre-existing conditions or acute onset of existing conditions. Check how this affects premiums.
For one extended stay, select a single-trip plan. For frequent travel, consider an annual multi-trip plan for cost efficiency.
Get quotes from different reputable providers to find the best cost, coverage, and benefits suited to your needs.
Choose a deductible that fits your budget. Opt for direct billing plans to reduce upfront payments and reimbursement hassle.
Ensure your plan can be renewed or extended if your stay is prolonged due to weather, health, or family reasons.
Carefully review your policy to know what is covered and what is excluded, avoiding unexpected out-of-pocket costs during emergencies.
Example of a Snowbird Travel Insurance Claim in the USA
John, Age 68 - Arizona
Can Canadian Snowbirds Buy Travel Insurance After Arriving in the USA?
Yes. Canadian snowbirds can purchase visitor insurance after arriving in the United States through American Visitor Insurance. Many Canadian snowbirds health insurance plans allow coverage to be purchased after departure, helping protect you from unexpected healthcare expenses during the rest of your trip
However, some best health insurance for snowbirds may include waiting periods for illnesses, pre-existing conditions, or other eligibility requirements. For the broadest coverage and immediate protection, purchasing insurance before leaving Canada is generally recommended.
Buying US Travel Insurance as a Canadian
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.
Renewing or Extending Coverage
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.
Understanding Deductibles
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.
Coverage for Pre-Existing Conditions
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:Safe Travels Elite
Coverage: $25,000 to $175,000.
Deductible: $0 deductible.
PPO Network: First Health PPO
Good travel insurance for pre-existing conditions includes other plans such as INF Elite X, Elite Plus X, Elite 90 X, Premier Plus X, and Premier X, especially for travelers purchasing coverage for 90 days or longer.
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.
Where Can I Buy the Best Travel Insurance from Canada to USA?
You can buy the best travel insurance from Canada to USA easily through American Visitor Insurance, a trusted platform that specializes in travel medical insurance for international travelers, including Canadian visitors to the USA, long-term snowbird coverage.
We partner with top-rated U.S. insurers including International Medical Group (IMG), Trawick International, and Global Underwriters, offering a wide range of reliable travel insurance options in one place. We offer US and Canada travel insurance plans for travelers moving between both countries.
Why buy Canadian travel insurance to USA through American Visitor Insurance?
For nearly two decades, American Visitor Insurance has been helping thousands of Canadian and international snowbirds find reliable coverage for long stays in destinations such as Florida, Arizona, Texas, Mexico, or island getaways in the Caribbean.
International travel insurance from Canada to USA plans provide coverage for emergency medical treatment, hospitalization, doctor visits, medical evacuation and repatriation, and PPO network access across the USA, backed by leading insurers and healthcare networks.
With customer support available across both East and West Coast U.S. time zones, assistance is provided during the application process and even with claims while travelers are in the United States.
Best price guaranteed - no extra fees. Get an instant quote and purchase coverage online quickly and hassle-free, with pricing you won’t find lower elsewhere for the same coverage.
American Visitor Insurance is a licensed U.S.-based insurance provider (NJ License #1181604), offering Canadian travelers a reliable and secure way to purchase travel insurance online.
public Overall: American Visitor Insurance provides a convenient, trusted, and user-friendly way to find the right international travel insurance from Canada to USA, whether you are looking for comprehensive plans, cheap travel insurance to USA, or specialized snowbird coverage.
Best Snowbird Travel Insurance - FAQ's
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 of Canada and the United States, they may be eligible to purchase visitor insurance for U.S. citizens visiting the USA by selecting Canada as their home country and the United States as their country of citizenship when applying for coverage.
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.
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.
For Canadians living outside Canada for several months or longer, a long-term travel insurance plan is the ideal choice. It provides comprehensive travel insurance for long term travelers including medical coverage, emergencies, hospital visits, and unexpected health issues while abroad.
Yes. A PPO (Preferred Provider Organization) network can make it easier and more affordable to receive medical care while visiting the United States.
Many Canadian travel insurance to USA plans use networks such as UnitedHealthcare PPO or First Health PPO. When you visit an in-network provider, the healthcare facility may bill the insurance company directly, reducing your out-of-pocket expenses and simplifying the claims process.
You can still receive treatment outside the PPO network, especially in emergencies. However, out-of-network providers may require payment upfront, and you may need to submit a claim for reimbursement later.
Most travel medical insurance for snowbirds plans can be extended or renewed online if you decide to stay longer than originally planned. For example, Patriot America Plus and Patriot America Lite can be renewed for up to 24 months, while Safe Travels USA Comprehensive can be extended for up to 364 days.
A processing fee may apply to short-term renewals, and renewal eligibility varies by plan. In some cases, coverage cannot be renewed while a claim is in progress.
To avoid a gap in coverage, review your renewal options and renew your travel insurance policy before your current coverage expires
Snowbird medical insurance helps cover unexpected medical expenses that occur while you are away from home. If you become sick or injured during your trip, the insurance can help pay for eligible medical costs such as doctor visits, hospitalization, emergency medical treatment, ambulance services, and medical evacuation.
Some plans may also include additional travel-related benefits such as trip interruption, baggage loss or delay, and assistance services.
In a medical emergency, seek treatment immediately and contact your insurance company as soon as possible. While emergency care is covered regardless of network status, using in-network providers when available may help reduce out-of-pocket expenses and simplify the claims process.
Learn more about how visitor insurance works, including deductibles, coinsurance, claims, and PPO networks.
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.
The right coverage amount depends on your age, health, destination, and length of stay. Since healthcare costs in the United States can be extremely high, many Canadian snowbirds choose higher coverage limits for added financial protection.
| Coverage Amount | Best For |
|---|---|
| $100,000 | Budget-conscious travelers taking shorter trips with minimal health concerns. |
| $250,000 - $500,000 | Most Canadian snowbirds seeking a balance between comprehensive coverage and affordability. |
| $1 Million+ | Seniors, travelers with pre-existing conditions, or those planning extended stays in the USA. |
When selecting travel health insurance for Canadian in US plan, consider not only the policy maximum but also benefits such as emergency medical evacuation, PPO network access, deductible options, and coverage for eligible acute onset of pre-existing conditions.
- Not sure on what type of coverage you need? Understand trip protection, medical or long-term coverage.
- Compare health insurance for Canadian visitors to USA based on plan price, policy maximum, and additional benefits.
- Check what’s included and excluded in US health insurance for Canadian snowbirds and review policy limits carefully.
- Review travel health insurance for Canadian citizens with pre-existing conditions.
- Compare health insurance for Canadian living in USA with pre-existing condition options.
- Purchase Snowbird travel insurance to USA before leaving Canada.
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.
Canadian snowbirds can generally stay in the United States for up to 6 months (approximately 182 days) at a time without a visa. However, the final length of stay is determined by U.S. border officials upon entry.
Snowbirds planning extended stays should also consider the impact on their Canadian provincial health coverage, tax obligations, and travel insurance needs.
Important: Canadians staying in the U.S. for more than 30 days may be subject to U.S. registration requirements, depending on their admission status and documentation. Travelers should review the latest requirements before departure.
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.
Many travel insurance for snowbirds plans cover the acute onset of pre-existing conditions, meaning a sudden and unexpected medical emergency related to a pre-existing condition. Some plans, such as select INF travel insurance plans, may offer broader coverage for eligible pre-existing conditions.
Before purchasing a policy, review the plan's eligibility requirements, stability period, coverage limits, and exclusions to ensure it meets your medical needs.
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TrueNorth - Best Travel Medical Insurance Designed for Canadians
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.
The TrueNorth Travel Medical Insurance plan is one of the cheapest travel medical insurance options for Canadians visiting the USA, starting at just $40 CAD for a 20-year-old traveler. It provides essential coverage for emergency medical care, hospitalization, accidents, and medical evacuation or repatriation, offering reliable protection at an affordable price.
Available for travelers up to age 59, these plans can be compared and purchased directly on American Visitor Insurance.
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.
- 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
TrueNorth Trip Cancellation Plans
The best trip cancellation insurance for Canadians visiting the USA is the TrueNorth Trip Protection Plus plan. It offers comprehensive protection, higher coverage limits, and reliable benefits to safeguard your trip to the United States.
For travelers seeking a more budget-conscious option, the TrueNorth Trip Protection Lite plan provides essential trip cancellation coverage at a lower cost-helping Canadian travelers to the USA protect their travel investment from unexpected cancellations or interruptions.
TrueNorth Trip Protection Lite Insurance
- Eligible for Canadian residents traveling internationally.
- Covers trip cancellation coverage up to $25,000.
- Trip Interruption is covered up to 100% of trip cost.
- The maximum trip duration depends on your age (0-59 years - 90 days, 60-69 years - 30 days, 70-89 years - 16 days).
- Covers unlimited repatriation of remains.
- Not available in NB, NT, NU, PE, QC, or YT.
- Includes 24/7 non-insurance emergency travel assistance.
- TrueNorth Trip Protection Lite insurance cost for a 40 year old traveler starts from $95 for 15 days trip duration with $1000 trip cost.
TrueNorth Trip Protection Plus Insurance
- Available for Canadian residents traveling outside of Canada.
- Offers trip cancellation coverage up to $25,000.
- Trip interruption coverage up to $25,000.
- Includes trip delay coverage up to $2,000.
- Coverage for baggage and personal effects is up to $1,500.
- Emergency medical expenses is covered up to $5,000,000.
- Not available in NB, NT, NU, PE, QC, or YT.
- The maximum trip duration depends on your age (0-59 years - 90 days, 60-69 years - 30 days, 70-89 years - 16 days).
- TrueNorth Trip Protection Plus insurance cost for a 40 year old traveler starts from $165 for 15 days trip duration with $1000 trip cost.
TrueNorth Annual Travel Medical - For Frequent Travelers
The TrueNorth Annual Travel Medical Insurance plan is an excellent choice for frequent Canadian travelers visiting the USA throughout the year. This comprehensive annual travel medical insurance for Canadians visiting the USA provides year-round coverage for multiple trips under a single policy, including emergency medical protection, unlimited evacuation and repatriation, and 24/7 worldwide assistance, helping travelers save time and money while ensuring continuous coverage on every trip.
With annual travel medical insurance for Canadians visiting the USA, you don’t have to purchase separate coverage for every trip-saving both time and money while ensuring continuous health protection and peace of mind on every visit.
Best Travel Insurance for Snowbirds Reviews
Reviews, ratings and experiences from Canadian snowbirds traveling to the USA.
"As a Canadian snowbird spending four months in Arizona every winter, finding the right travel medical insurance is essential. The comparison tools made it easy to review plans and choose coverage that fit both my health needs and budget."
"The information about pre-existing medical condition coverage was very helpful. I was able to compare several plans and purchase coverage with confidence before leaving Canada for my stay in Florida."
"Healthcare costs in the USA can be overwhelming, so having the right snowbird travel insurance gave me peace of mind. The customer service team answered all my questions and helped me find excellent coverage for my extended trip."
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. Learn more about annual travel insurance for Canadians.
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Affordable health and trip insurance for Americans visiting Canada.
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Resourceful Tourist Health Insurance USA Information
Explore useful travel insurance guides, comparison tools, FAQs, and resources for visitors traveling to the USA.
Find the best visitor insurance plan based on your budget and travel needs.
Learn More →Understand how claims work for medical expenses, injuries, and sickness abroad.
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Learn More →Learn commonly used visitor medical insurance and travel insurance terms.
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Learn More →Compare visitor insurance plans side by side to find the right coverage.
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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 certain limitations for Canadian travelers and international students. Review the providers below before purchasing.
- Atlas America Insurance
- Atlas International Insurance
- VisitorSecure Insurance
- Student Secure Insurance
lightbulb 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.
lightbulb LIMITATION: If you are physically in Canada, you are prohibited from purchasing these plans.You must be outside Canada at the time of application.
Travel Medical USA Visitor Insurance
lightbulb 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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