Leaving Alberta affects health care coverage

Let us know before you go

Leaving Alberta for travel, studies, business or other reasons for an extended period of time may impact your Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) coverage.

If you are not or will not be physically present in Alberta for at least 183 days in a 12-month period, contact AHCIP and let us know.

Temporary absence or travel

You can leave Alberta and keep your AHCIP coverage if:

• you are staying in another province or territory for less than 12 consecutive months
• you are staying outside Canada for less than 6 consecutive months

You must return to Alberta and maintain a permanent residence on the conclusion of your stay outside Alberta.

What is covered within Canada

What is covered outside Canada

Repeated absences (Snowbirds)

If you are away from Alberta for the purpose of vacation on a recurring basis, for up to 212 days in a 12-month period, you might be eligible for continued AHCIP coverage.

Contact AHCIP before you leave Alberta and when you return.

Extended absence

You might be eligible for AHCIP coverage for extended absences:

• 4 years (48 months) if you are away for work, business or missionary service
• 2 years (24 months) if you are away for travel, personal visits or educational leave (sabbatical)
• the time you are a full-time student at an accredited educational institution

Contact AHCIP to discuss your extended absence.

Legislation

Alberta Health Care Insurance Regulation

Alberta Health Care Insurance Act

Contact

Due to high call volumes, it is recommended you read through our web content before you call us.

To register or update your information, go to a participating registry.

Connect with AHCIP