New Brunswick health coverage for newcomers
Bottom line: Newcomers and Canadian citizens moving or returning from another country may be entitled to coverage from the first day of arrival if Medicare is satisfied that permanent New Brunswick residence has been established.
When coverage starts
Moving from outside Canada
Newcomers and Canadian citizens moving or returning from another country may be entitled to coverage from the first day of arrival if Medicare is satisfied that permanent New Brunswick residence has been established.
Moving from another province or territory
Coverage may begin on the first day of the third month following the month permanent New Brunswick residence is established.
Who may qualify
Residency rule
You must be a Canadian citizen or legally entitled to remain in Canada and make New Brunswick your permanent and principal home, or qualify as an eligible international student.
Avoid an uninsured gap
Do not cancel prior or private coverage until New Brunswick Medicare confirms your effective date in writing.
Status-specific guides
Primary government source
New Brunswick — Applying for Medicare Coverage →
Source confidence: high. Health-plan eligibility can depend on documents, residency facts and permit dates. Confirm the effective date with the provincial or territorial plan before cancelling existing insurance.
Compare across Canada
Newcomer Health Coverage Checker →
2026 Canada Newcomer Health Coverage Reference →
All provinces and territories →