Quebec health coverage for permanent residents

Does this status qualify?

Permanent residents establishing Quebec residence are generally eligible subject to RAMQ registration and the applicable waiting period.

When could coverage start?

If moving from outside Canada: Coverage for people arriving from another country usually begins after a waiting period of up to three months. RAMQ says the waiting period does not apply to children under 18.

If moving from another province or territory: A waiting period can apply when establishing Quebec coverage. The exact start date depends on the person’s situation and registration date.

Residency still matters

RAMQ eligibility depends on establishing or maintaining Quebec residence or qualifying under a temporary-stay category.

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

RAMQ explicitly recommends private insurance for the period before public eligibility begins because care received before the start date is generally not reimbursed.

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

RAMQ — Know the eligibility conditions →

Useful next steps

General eligibility information only. It is not medical, insurance, immigration or legal advice. Government rules and document requirements can change.