Applying for Quebec Medical Insurance

New arrivals to Quebec and returning Canadians are subject to a three-month waiting period before medical coverage takes effect under the Quebec Health Insurance Plan. During the waiting period, the University will ensure alternate coverage for all elibible staff.

Procedures

Eligibility

Work Permits must be for a minimum period of six-months in order for Quebec Health Insurance coverage to be offered.

Waiting Period

There is a three-month waiting period for coverage to take effect.

Registration with the Régie de l'assurance maladie

It is essential that incoming staff register with the Régie de l'assurance maladie (RAMQ) on arrival, since the three-month period begins only when the staff member has registered with RAMQ.

Spouses and children should accompany the principal applicant and provide the required forms and identification.

Interim Coverage

Those covered by this regulation who have applied to the RAMQ will be issued an official letter by the RAMQ confirming the anticipated start date of their medical coverage. This letter is needed by McGill to provide interim insurance. You should bring it to your McGill Benefits session.

Exceptions to Waiting Period

Certain countries have social security agreements with Quebec and their citizens are covered on arrival.

Nevertheless, these staff must also register with the RAMQ immediately.

These countries are:
Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal and Sweden.

Costs

The University will cover costs of the additional coverage required during the waiting period.

Temporary work permits & renewal

Renewing the Health Insurance Card (or Carte Soleil)

1. All Health Insurance Cards have an expiry date which appears on the front of the card.
2. No renewal notice will be sent to temporary residents.
   Staff on temporary work permits must therefore contact the RAMQ by telephone to renew their Health Insurance Card once they have been issued a new immigration document.
3. Contacting the RAMQ
   425 de Maisonneuve Blvd. West, 3rd Floor
   Telephone 514-864 3411