Reference · Checklists
What to bring to a first Ontario health card application
The ordinary first-time Ontario Health Insurance Plan application requires a completed registration form and three different documents. One establishes Canadian citizenship or eligible immigration status, one shows residence in Ontario and one proves identity. Ontario accepts some residence evidence in printed or digital form.
Sources checked
- 01Complete the form
Fill out Registration for Ontario Health Insurance Coverage. Source 1
- 02Choose a status document
Use original citizenship or qualifying immigration evidence. Source 2
- 03Choose Ontario residence evidence
Check whether your selected residence document may be digital or must be original. Source 2
- 04Choose a separate identity document
Use an original accepted document bearing your name and signature. Source 2
Put one qualifying document in each category and bring the completed form.
Allocate each document to one of the three checks
A passport can appear in more than one category, but Ontario requires three different documents. An applicant might use a Canadian birth certificate for status, an eligible utility bill for Ontario residence and a passport for identity. The identity document must show the applicant’s name and signature. Source 2
Check the format for your residence evidence
Ontario accepts printed or digital versions for some residence evidence, such as qualifying bills or statements. The province requires originals for an Ontario driver licence, Ontario Photo Card and Ontario vehicle permit. Printed versions accepted for a listed category are distinct from photocopies of original documents. Source 2
A work permit may require employer evidence too
Ontario specifies a signed and dated employer letter or contract on company letterhead for applicants relying on eligible full-time work. It must state the role, employment start date and that the Ontario employer intends to employ the person for at least six months. Check the underlying eligibility before the visit. Source 2 Source 1
Coverage eligibility and the in-person check are separate
Ontario says there is no waiting period for an eligible applicant. Its ordinary eligibility rules include making Ontario the primary residence and meeting physical presence requirements. The first application is submitted in person at a ServiceOntario centre. The province lists exceptions for some applicant categories. Source 1
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Mark the items you have ready
Use the list for your own preparation. Check your appointment instructions for the final requirements.
Ordinary first application · Bring the completed Registration for Ontario Health Insurance Coverage form. Source 1
If applying as a Canadian citizen · Bring an original accepted document, such as a Canadian birth certificate or a Canadian passport that is valid or expired no more than five years. Source 2
If applying as a permanent resident · Bring an original accepted document, such as a qualifying permanent resident card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence. Source 2
If relying on an eligible work permit · Bring the work permit and qualifying signed, dated employer evidence of full-time Ontario employment. See the list for the required terms. Source 2
Ordinary first application · Choose a separate item such as a current eligible bill, monthly bank statement or rental agreement. A licence or Ontario Photo Card must be original. Source 2
Ordinary first application · Bring a separate original accepted document showing name and signature, such as a passport or an eligible Ontario driver licence. Source 2
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