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Destination Canada Visitor Insurance Review – 2024
Destination Canada, is a prominent player in visitor insurance and offers customized coverage for foreigners visiting Canada. Their visitor medical insurance provides flexible coverage up to $300,000, with deductible options ranging from $0 to $10,000, and monthly payment plans available for extended coverage periods. Their Accident and Sickness Policy covers emergency medical services and includes special plans for international students with enhanced benefits.
- What are the key features of Destination Canada’s visitor health insurance?
- What does Destination Canada’s visitor health insurance plan cover?
- Does Destination Canada cover pre-existing conditions?
- How much does visitor health insurance from Destination Canada cost?
- Who is eligible for Destination Canada’s visitor health insurance?
- What are the pros and cons of Destination Canada’s visitor health insurance?
- How does Destination Canada assist in processing claims?
- Does Destination Canada offer any special benefits for students traveling to Canada?
- Are there any exclusions or limitations to Destination Canada’s visitor health insurance?
- Frequently asked questions
Founded in 1996, Destination Canada’s visitor insurance has grown to become a reliable choice for visitors to Canada insurance. Known for its personalized approach, Destination Canada customizes its coverage to meet the unique needs of different types of international travellers.
Whether you’re visiting for leisure, business, or visiting family, Destination Canada provides plans designed to offer peace of mind. In this review, we’ll explain why Destination Canada is a trusted choice, discuss the range of plans available, and highlight the features that contribute to a worry-free travel experience.
What are the key features of Destination Canada’s visitor health insurance?
Destination Canada offers visitor medical insurance with flexible coverage up to $300,000 and deductibles ranging from $0 to $10,000. The company also offers monthly payment plans. Here’s a detailed breakdown of its features:
Key features of Destination Canada’s visitor medical insurance
| Category | Details |
| Maximum age |
|
| Maximum coverage amount | $300,000 |
| Deductibles | $0, $250, $500, $1000, $5,000, $10,000 |
| Waiting period | 48 hours after your effective date if you purchased within 30 days after your date of departure from the country you’re travelling from; or 10 days after your effective date if you purchased more than 30 days after your date of departure |
| Monthly payment plans offered | Yes, available for insured amounts of a minimum of $50,000 and
trip durations of at least 180 days, however, a deposit of 2 months of premium surcharge of 10% is due at the time of application to be eligible for this plan |
| Stability period | 120 days (up to 69 years), 180 days (70-79 years) |
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What does Destination Canada’s visitor health insurance plan cover?
Destination Canada’s visitor insurance plan covers emergency medical services such as hospital stays, emergency medical care, ambulance services, and even dental emergencies. It is a reliable option for visitors to Canada seeking comprehensive travel medical insurance.
Here’s a table highlighting what Destination Canada’s visitor medical insurance plan covers:
Destination Canada Visitor Medical Insurance Plan
| Benefit | Details |
| Emergency hospital | Semi-private accommodation, drugs, and services during hospitalization |
| Emergency medical | Emergency medical, surgical, or anesthetic services by a physician |
| Private duty nurse | Up to $10,000 for nursing services, pre-approved |
| Physiotherapist/chiropractor | Up to $500 per practitioner for out-patient treatment |
| Lab tests/X-rays | Covered for diagnosis during initial emergency |
| Ambulance services | Licensed local air, land, or sea ambulance to the nearest hospital |
| Medical equipment | Rental of crutches, hospital-type bed, splints, braces, etc |
| Emergency outpatient services | Covered by hospital |
| Drugs/medications | Up to $1,000 for prescribed drugs (30-day supply) |
| Emergency transportation | Up to $3,000 for transportation to home country, including air ambulance |
| Transportation of family/friend | Up to $3,000 for one round-trip; up to $1,000 for reasonable costs |
| Attendant care | Up to $50/day up to $500 for non-relative care |
| Follow-up visits | Up to $3,000 for follow-up visits related to initial emergency |
| Accidental dental | Up to $3,000 for emergency dental care from accidental injury (the treatment must begin and end within 90 days from the date of injury) |
| Dental emergencies | Up to $500 for relief of acute dental pain |
| Meals & accommodation | Up to $150/day, max $1,500 for meals and lodging if hospitalized past return date, or up to 10 days if you are confined to the hospital |
| Emergency return home | Up to $3,000 for one-way transportation to home country |
| Return of deceased | Up to $10,000 for preparation and return; $4,000 for burial/cremation |
| Accidental death & dismemberment | Up to $150,000 for accidental death or dismemberment |
| Flight accident | Up to $50,000 for flight-related accidents |
| Exposure and disappearance | Covered for exposure-related losses; presumed loss of life after 52 weeks |
| Side-trip outside Canada | Covered if the majority (51%) of the trip is in Canada; no coverage in the home country |
Does Destination Canada cover pre-existing conditions?
Yes, Destination Canada’s visitor medical insurance plans cover pre-existing conditions for ages 0 to 59 if the conditions are stable for 90 days before the policy starts or excluded entirely, and for ages 60 to 69, if the conditions are stable for 120 days prior or excluded.
However, people aged between 70 to 79 years require stability for 180 days for coverage, while for ages 80 and over, all pre-existing conditions are excluded from coverage.
What does Destination Canada define as a ‘stable’ condition?
According to Destination Canada, for a pre-existing condition to be deemed stable and eligible for coverage, there must be no changes in medication, no new symptoms, no new diagnostic treatments or scheduled appointments.
How much does visitor health insurance from Destination Canada cost?
Visitor health insurance from Destination Canada can cost anywhere between $81-$478 for $100,000 in coverage for 30 days across different age groups. Here’s a table highlighting the costs:
Cost of Destination Canada’s visitor insurance
| Age Group | Without Pre-Existing Coverage | With Pre-Existing Coverage |
| 25 Years | $81.00/mo | $126.00/mo |
| 35 Years | $99.90/mo | $146.10/mo |
| 45 Years | $125.70/mo | $186.60/mo |
| 55 Years | $125.70/mo | $186.60/mo |
| 65 Years | $180.00/mo | $280.20/mo |
| 75 Years | $307.20/mo | $478.80/mo |
*These costs reflect $100,000 in coverage for a visitor travelling to Canada for 30 days, with separate rates for those without pre-existing conditions.
Does Destination Canada offer monthly plans?
Yes, you can pay monthly for Destination Canada visitor health insurance if you purchase your policy with at least 180 days of coverage and a minimum aggregate limit of $50,000.
You’ll need to pay a 2-month deposit plus a 10% surcharge at application. A third month’s premium is due on the policy’s effective date, with subsequent monthly payments billed thereafter.
Who is eligible for Destination Canada’s visitor health insurance?
You are eligible for Destination Canada’s visitor health insurance if you are a visitor to Canada, a Canadian not covered by a government health plan, someone on a work visa or Parent and Grandparent Super Visa, or a new immigrant awaiting government health coverage.
However, coverage is not available if you have a terminal illness, advanced cancer, recent home oxygen use, heart failure, recent organ transplants, or other serious conditions. Eligibility requires you to be at least 15 days old, in good health, and with no expected need for medical attention. Coverage begins once the application is accepted or upon your departure, with waiting periods applying for late purchases unless continuous coverage can be proven.
Claims will not be paid for sicknesses showing symptoms within:
- 48 hours after your effective date (if purchased within 30 days of departure)
- 10 days after your effective date (if purchased more than 30 days after departure)
Note: The waiting period is waived if the insurance is purchased before departure or before the expiration of previous coverage, with proof of continuous coverage required.
What are the pros and cons of Destination Canada’s visitor health insurance?
While Destination Canada covers both emergency and non-emergency expenses, it offers limited coverage for pre-existing conditions and excludes coverage for adventure activities.
Pros and cons of Destination Canada’s visitor to Canada insurance
| Pros | Cons |
| Covers emergency medical expenses, including hospital stays, physician services, ambulance transportation, and prescription drugs | May exclude high-risk activities and have restrictions on certain diseases |
| Includes non-medical emergencies like trip interruption, lost baggage, and flight delays | Not all pre-existing conditions are covered if unstable within the required period, pre-existing conditions not covered for those above 80 years |
| Variety of plans based on specific requirements and stay duration | Premiums may be higher for older travellers due to increased health risks |
| Covers some pre-existing conditions if stable for 120 days before the policy effective date for travellers under 69 years of age | Primarily focuses on emergency medical coverage with limited non-medical benefits like trip cancellation or adventure sports |
| Simple, user-friendly online application with email policy documents | |
| 24/7 customer service available for inquiries and claims processing |
How does Destination Canada assist in processing claims?
Destination Canada provides 24/7 support and requires claims to be reported within 30 days of an incident, with written proof submitted within 90 days. Medical emergencies must be reported to Zurich Travel Assist before surgery or within 24 hours of hospital admission to avoid a 20% reduction in benefits.
Claims must include a fully completed form and original bills, and all necessary documents, such as medical records and receipts, should be submitted. Benefits are payable under one policy per person and will be paid to the Estate in case of death.
Does Destination Canada offer any special benefits for students travelling to Canada?
Yes, Destination Canada provides an International Student Insurance plan designed to meet the needs of students studying in Canada. This plan includes coverage for outpatient visits to a mental health practitioner for up to $500 per year, trauma counselling up to $500, vaccinations required by educational institutions, and maternity benefits.
It offers higher coverage limits compared to regular Visitor to Canada plans, with a maximum amount of up to $2,000,000 for international students, compared to $300,000 for visitors.
Full-time students at recognized Canadian institutions who hold a valid study permit and reside in Canada during the coverage period are eligible for this plan.
Are there any exclusions or limitations to Destination Canada’s visitor health insurance?
Yes, Destination Canada’s visitor health insurance has certain exclusions including coverage for routine healthcare, non-emergency or elective treatments, accidents involving high-risk activities, etc.
Here’s a glance at the coverage exclusions for Destination Canada’s visitor medical insurance policy:
| Exclusion | Details |
| Pre-existing conditions | Coverage not provided for pre-existing conditions based on age and stability period (90, 120, 180 days) |
| Waiting period | 48 hours (within 30 days of departure) or 10 days (more than 30 days) for symptoms. Waived if purchased before departure or policy expiration |
| Specific conditions | No coverage for Alzheimer’s, minor mental disorders, self-inflicted injuries (unless related to mental illness) |
| Purpose of trip | No coverage for trips for treatment or therapy, complications included |
| Substance abuse | No coverage for issues related to alcohol abuse, drug use, or non-compliance with treatment |
| Non-emergency treatments | No coverage for non-emergency, experimental, elective treatments, or related complications |
| Delayed treatment | No coverage if treatment can be delayed until return to country of origin without prior approval |
| General health examinations or continuation of emergency treatment | No coverage for routine health checks, ongoing chronic condition care, home health care, rehabilitation (Follow-up treatments without prior approval are also not covered) |
| High-risk activities | No coverage for injuries from speed contests, motor sports, stunts, professional sports, or specific adventure activities |
| Pregnancy and childbirth | No coverage for expenses related to pregnancy, childbirth, or complications |
| Motor vehicle accidents | No coverage for injuries covered by motor vehicle insurance policies |
| Legislative prohibitions | No coverage for treatments prohibited by provincial or territorial plans |
| Alternative therapies | No coverage for naturopathic, holistic, or acupuncture treatments |
| Excessive charges (Usual, customary, and reasonable) | No coverage for costs exceeding the reasonable rate for the area |
| Travel advisories | No coverage if a travel advisory is issued by the Canadian government for your destination |
| Non-Canadian travel or air travel | No coverage if not spending the majority of coverage time in Canada or for non-commercial air travel except emergency transportation benefits |
| Temporary returns | No coverage for issues arising during temporary returns to the country of origin |
| Commercial vehicle use | No coverage if involved in operating or traveling in a commercial vehicle for transporting goods |
| Accidental death & dismemberment | No coverage for accidents involving aircraft boarding, disembarking, or being an occupant |
Should I purchase Destination Canada’s visitor medical insurance?
Wondering if Destination Canada’s visitor medical insurance is the right choice for you? Let PolicyAdvisor guide you. Our expert advisors can help you understand the benefits and limitations of Destination Canada’s plans, ensuring you select the coverage that best meets your needs. Get started today to make an informed decision and secure the best visitor insurance policy that fits your travel plans perfectly.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does Destination Canada offer automatic coverage extensions?
Yes, Destination Canada provides automatic coverage extensions in certain situations. If you or your travelling companion is hospitalized on your policy expiry date, your coverage will automatically be extended at no additional premium for the duration of the hospitalization and up to 72 hours after discharge.
Additionally, coverage may be extended for 72 hours in the event of delays caused by common carriers, extreme weather conditions, or mechanical failures, provided you supply documented proof of the cause for the delay.
Does Destination Canada require a medical questionnaire?
No, Destination Canada does not require a medical questionnaire for their Visitor to Canada (VTC) insurance plans. This makes it easier for travellers to obtain coverage without the need for health assessments, which can be beneficial for those with pre-existing conditions.
Can I get family coverage with Destination Canada?
Yes, Destination Canada offers family coverage under their plans. Family coverage includes you, your spouse, and dependent children, all under age 60. The cost of emergency medical benefits is calculated based on the premium for the oldest traveller under 60, making it a flexible option for families travelling together.
What is the maximum number of days Destination Canada’s visitor insurance policy covers?
Destination Canada’s Visitor to Canada insurance policies cover up to 365 days (or 366 days in a leap year). If your policy expires, you can purchase a new policy as long as you remain eligible.
Does Destination Canada cover travel outside Canada?
Emergency medical expenses during side trips outside Canada are covered if at least 51% of the trip is spent in Canada. Costs in the insured’s home country are not covered during side trips, and any temporary return to the country of origin must be less than 51% of the coverage period.
Can I pay monthly for my Destination Canada visitor health insurance?
Yes, you can pay monthly for your Destination Canada visitor health insurance if you purchase your policy with at least 180 days of coverage and a minimum aggregate limit of $50,000. Additionally, you’ll need to pay a 2-month deposit plus a 10% surcharge at application.
- Destination Canada offers up to $300,000 in coverage with deductibles from $0 to $10,000 and covers emergency medical care, hospital stays, ambulance services, and more
- Destination Canada offers monthly payment options for sum insured amounts of minimum $50,000 and trip durations of at least 6 months
- Diverse travellers are eligible for visitor insurance from Destination Canada including foreign workers on work permits and new immigrants on a PR, special plans are also available for international students with added benefits
- Costs for visitor medical insurance range from $81 to $478 for a 30-day period depending on age and pre-existing conditions
