Canada depends a lot on temporary foreign workers (TFWs) in industries like farming, fisheries, restaurants, and construction. These jobs often need more workers at certain times of the year. TFWs help fill this need and keep these industries running smoothly.
The country’s TFW program requires sponsors to ensure that temporary foreign workers get private health insurance in Canada before they are covered by provincial health care. This rule is in place to protect the employers and their company leaders because they are responsible for the safety and care of foreign workers while they are working in Canada. The cost of this insurance is small compared to the benefits of being in the program. If a worker without insurance needs hospital care, the bill could be much higher than the cost of the required insurance.
Health Insurance for Temporary Foreign Workers
The private health insurance needed for the program is a type of “visitors to Canada insurance.” This insurance covers emergency illnesses and accidental injuries. However, unlike provincial health care, it doesn’t cover everything. Each insurance policy has certain limits, and medical expenses might exceed the maximum coverage amount. Employers should buy this insurance before the temporary foreign worker arrives in Canada. If the policy is purchased after arrival, there will be a waiting period for benefits, which can last from 48 hours to seven days.
Getting Health Care
Temporary foreign workers can see a doctor or go to the hospital without asking their employer first. Most of the time, they don’t have to pay for medical care in Canada. TFWs can use their province or territory’s health insurance. However, there is a waiting period before coverage starts, based on when they arrive in Canada. Employers must help them sign up for health insurance as soon as possible.
Private Health Insurance
If temporary foreign workers can’t use the provincial health insurance right away, their employer must get private health insurance for them. This insurance covers emergency medical care, and the employer can’t take money from the workers’ pay for this. Note: Workers from Mexico or the Caribbean who come to work in farming for a season don’t need to worry about this. Canada has agreements with these countries that include health insurance.
If a Temporary Foreign Worker Gets Hurt or Sick at Work
If a TFW gets hurt or sick at work, they should tell their employer immediately and get medical help. Employers have to make sure the worker can see a doctor or nurse by:
- Giving them time off to go to the doctor
- Having a phone nearby to call for help
- Telling them where to go for medical care
- Helping them get to the doctor if they need transportation
Employers don’t have to pay for the worker’s ride to the hospital, clinic, or doctor. However, there are special rules for seasonal agricultural workers, as noted above. TFWs have the right to talk to a doctor or nurse in private without their employer present.
Guidelines for Employers
Temporary foreign workers are really important for Canada’s economy. They help keep industries like farming, fisheries, restaurants, and construction going strong. Since they don’t have the same health insurance as Canadians, their employers must make sure they have other ways to stay healthy. By doing this and giving them fair treatment, Canada shows it cares about all workers who help the country grow.
If you are an employer looking to purchase private health insurance for your temporary foreign workers, you should:
- Research Options: Look into different insurance providers that offer plans tailored to temporary foreign workers. Ensure the plan covers emergency medical care as required by Canadian regulations.
- Compare Coverage: Compare coverage details such as medical services included, deductible amounts, and premiums. Choose a plan that provides comprehensive coverage without deducting money from your workers’ pay.
- Consult Legal Requirements: Familiarize yourself with provincial or territorial regulations regarding health insurance for TFWs. Ensure compliance with all legal requirements when purchasing and providing health insurance.
- Communicate Clearly: Inform your temporary foreign workers about their health insurance coverage, including how to access medical services and what to do in case of illness or injury at the workplace.
- Ensure Access: Make sure your workers have easy access to information about their health insurance plans. Provide assistance in understanding the coverage and accessing medical care as needed.
By taking these steps as an employer, you can fulfill your obligation to provide adequate health insurance coverage for temporary foreign workers, ensuring their well-being and compliance with Canadian labor laws. Learn more about temporary foreign worker health insurance. Have questions? Give us a call at 1-866-848-8836.