New Brunswick health coverage for work permit holders
Bottom line: Some work permit holders can qualify as residents, but documentation and case-specific eligibility apply. Confirm your permit with Medicare.
Does this status qualify?
Some work permit holders can qualify as residents, but documentation and case-specific eligibility apply. Confirm your permit with Medicare.
When could coverage start?
If 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.
If 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.
Residency still matters
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.
Immigration status alone does not guarantee coverage. The provincial or territorial plan may also require proof of address, physical presence, permit validity, employment or school enrolment.
Do not assume approval means retroactive reimbursement
Do not cancel prior or private coverage until New Brunswick Medicare confirms your effective date in writing.
Keep your existing provincial, employer, school or private medical coverage until the public plan confirms both eligibility and the effective date. If the plan gives you a future start date, treat the period before that date as a real insurance gap.
Primary government source
New Brunswick — Applying for Medicare Coverage →
Useful next steps
General eligibility information only. It is not medical, insurance, immigration or legal advice. Government rules and document requirements can change.