How to apply for AHCIP

Overview

All new and returning eligible Alberta residents must be registered for the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). That means, you need to apply for your Alberta personal health card to receive insured hospital and health services.

When accessing services, you will need to show your personal health card (paper or mobile) along with photo identification.

How to apply

Step 1. Eligibility

Learn about AHCIP eligibility requirements.

Step 2. Complete the application form

Complete and save the Application form for AHCIP Coverage

For children of non-eligible parents or guardians including children of military parents, refugee claimants or those waiting for new immigration documents:

• Application form for AHCIP Coverage: Canadian Children of Non-Eligible Parents – Only use this form to apply for AHCIP coverage for your child if:
  • you are the child’s parent or guardian
  • you have established residency in Alberta
  • you, the parent or guardian, are not eligible for AHCIP coverage
• Custodians who are responsible for a foreign student, even if they have AHCIP coverage, can also use the form.

AHCIP forms are also available from a participating registry.

Step 3. Gather your supporting documents

When you apply for AHCIP coverage, you must provide supporting documents that prove:

• Alberta residency
• identity
• legal entitlement to be in and remain in Canada

Alberta residency documents include:

• Alberta driver’s license
• bills such as utilities and phone bills
• mortgage or rental agreement
• home insurance
• vehicle registration

Identity documents include:

• passport
• permanent resident card (both sides)
• certificate of Indian Status issued by the Federal Government
• government issued driver’s license
• government issued registries ID card
• Canadian citizenship card

Legal entitlement to be in Canada documents include:

• Canadian passport
• permanent resident card (both sides)
• certificate of Indian Status issued by the Federal Government
• Canadian birth certificate
• Canada entry document (for example, work or study permit)
• Canadian citizenship card or certificate (both sides), permanent resident card or confirmation document or letter

If these supporting documents are not provided, your application cannot be processed.

You may be asked to provide additional supporting documents to confirm AHCIP eligibility.

Step 4. Submit the application

At a participating registry

Bring the completed application form and your original documents to a participating registry. There is no charge for this service.

Processing time can take up to 5 days.

Paper cards are mailed to your home by the AHCIP office. Ensure you provide your current mailing address.