Alberta Health care coverage extended for snowbirds

Albertans in who head off to find the sun winter can now extend their stay an extra month while maintaining health care coverage. 

Associate Minister of Seniors, Dave Quest, announced the change this morning at Calgary International Airport.

Snowbirds and other long-term vacationers can now be out of Alberta up to 212 days (seven months) a year while keeping their eligibility for Alberta health care insurance coverage. This is a 30-day increase from the previous 182-day limit (six months).

“We want Albertans to have the flexibility to go on extended vacations while having the peace of mind that their health care coverage is there for them if they need it,” said Quest.

Increasing the amount of time longer-term vacationers are permitted out of the province allows Alberta residents to remain eligible for health coverage as long as they have not established permanent residence elsewhere.  

The increase brings Alberta into line with other Canadian provinces, including British Columbia, Ontario and Manitoba. Newfoundlanders remain eligible for coverage for 240 days.

The new policy comes into effect immediately, and includes travelers who are already outside of the province.

“This is welcome news for our members who told us they wanted the option to visit other countries for several months at a time, without sacrificing their health care coverage,” said Michael MacKenzie, executive director of the Canadian Snowbird Association.

“Extending coverage for an extra month gives travelers more flexibility.” 

Albertans who plan to be out of the province for extended periods need to contact Alberta Health each year before leaving, to ensure their health care coverage remains current.