- Purchase the complete Expat Arrivals Montreal Guide (PDF)
Healthcare in Montreal is of an excellent standard. Expats shouldn't struggle at all to find a good doctor or hospital during their stay in the city.
The language barrier won't be much of a concern either, as most doctors in Montreal speak English and some speak other languages as well.
Health insurance in Montreal
Universal healthcare in Canada means that all residents receive free or low-cost medical care. The Canadian healthcare system is administered differently in each province though.
In Quebec, it is run by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). Under the RAMQ, most expats who live in the region can qualify for subsidised healthcare. However, expats who hold employer-specific work permits that are valid for less than six months will likely be ineligible. To determine an expat's eligibility, we recommend visiting the official RAMQ website.
In order to receive subsidised healthcare in Montreal, expats must register with RAMQ and receive a medical insurance card. There is then a three-month waiting period, during which expats will need to pay for private health insurance. The exceptions to this are in cases of pregnancy, childbirth, victims of violence and patients with infectious diseases that are a danger to public health. Anyone who falls into these categories will receive subsidised healthcare during the waiting period.
Expats from countries with a healthcare agreement with Quebec will also be exempt from the waiting period. These countries include Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, Romania and Sweden.
In addition to regular health insurance, every resident of Quebec is required to have prescription drug insurance as prescription drugs are not covered by Quebec’s universal healthcare system. Expats can choose between taking out private prescription drug insurance, which is usually arranged by their employer, or public prescription drug insurance through RAMQ.
Hospitals in Montreal
Below are some of the most prominent hospitals in Montreal.
Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal
Website: www.chumontreal.qc.ca
Address: 1058 Rue Saint-Denis
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine
Website: www.chusj.org
Address: 3175 Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine
Hôpital de Réadaptation Villa Medica
Website: www.villamedica.ca
Address: 225 Rue Sherbrooke Est
Hôpital Marie-Clarac
Website: www.hopitalmarie-clarac.qc.ca
Address: 3530 Boulevard Gouin E
Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal
Website: ciusss-estmtl.gouv.qc.ca
Address: 7401 Rue Hochelaga
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global
With 86 million customer relationships in over 200 countries, Cigna Global has unrivalled experience in dealing with varied and unique medical situations and delivering high standards of service wherever you live in the world.
GeoBlue
GeoBlue is one of the best international health insurance plans for US expats abroad or internationals residing in the USA. The GeoBlue Xplorer plan includes worldwide coverage and great customer service with access to a premium international network of hospitals and doctors including the Blue Cross Blue Shield network in the USA.
Moving Companies
Moving Internationally?
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.
