- Download our Moving to Montreal Guide (PDF)
Healthcare in Montreal is of an excellent standard, and expats will have access to first-class doctors and facilities in the city.
The language barrier won't be much of a concern either, as most doctors in Montreal are multilingual.
Health insurance in Montreal
Universal healthcare in Canada means all residents receive free or low-cost medical care, though expats should note that each province’s healthcare system differs slightly.
In Quebec, the system is administered by the Régie de l'assurance maladie du Québec (RAMQ). Under the RAMQ, most expats who live in the region qualify for subsidised healthcare. However, expats with employer-specific work permits valid for less than six months will likely be ineligible. We recommend expats visit the official RAMQ website to determine their eligibility.
To receive subsidised healthcare in Montreal, expats must first register with RAMQ and receive a medical insurance card. It’s important to note that there is then a three-month waiting period, during which expats should take out private health insurance. The exceptions to this are cases of pregnancy, childbirth, victims of violence and patients with infectious diseases, which pose a danger to public health.
Expats from countries with a healthcare agreement with Quebec will also be exempt from the waiting period. These countries include Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Greece, Luxembourg, Norway, Portugal, Romania, Serbia and Sweden.
In addition to regular health insurance, it is required for every resident of Quebec to have prescription drug insurance, as the province’s universal healthcare system does not cover this. Expats can choose between taking out public or private prescription drug insurance through RAMQ or a policy arranged by their employer.
Hospitals in Montreal
Below are some of the most prominent hospitals in Montreal.
Centre Hospitalier de l'Université de Montréal
Website: www.chumontreal.qc.ca
Address: 1000 Rue Saint-Denis
Centre Hospitalier Universitaire Sainte-Justine
Website: www.chusj.org
Address: 3175 Chemin de la Côte-Sainte-Catherine
Hôpital de Réadaptation Villa Medica
Website: www.villamedica.ca
Address: 225 Rue Sherbrooke Est
Hôpital Marie-Clarac
Website: www.hopitalmarie-clarac.qc.ca
Address: 3530 Boulevard Gouin E
Institut Universitaire en Santé Mentale de Montréal
Website: ciusss-estmtl.gouv.qc.ca
Address: 7401 Rue Hochelaga
Further reading
►Getting Around Montreal provides an overview of transport in the city
Expat Interviews
"We are both pretty healthy so fortunately, we haven’t had the need to use the healthcare system and don’t have any personal experience to comment. From what we’ve been told, Canada's public health system is of high quality and funded by the government. It appears to be very well structured. Most of the basic healthcare expenses are covered by public insurance with a few exceptions. Dental care is generally funded privately through employment-based insurance."
Read about South African and Slovak expats, Tim and Kamila's experiences in Canada in our interview.
Are you an expat living in Montreal?
Expat Arrivals is looking for locals to contribute to this guide, and answer forum questions from others planning their move to Montreal. Please contact us if you'd like to contribute.
Expat Health Insurance
Cigna Global Health Insurance
Moving your family abroad can be intimidating, but learning about medical options such as family health insurance early on can help you successfully settle in.
Limited-time offer: 10%* off for life!
Get covered today and enjoy 10%* off your health insurance policy!
*T&Cs apply
Moving Internationally?
International Movers. Get Quotes. Compare Prices.
Sirelo has a network of more than 500 international removal companies that can move your furniture and possessions to your new home. By filling in a form, you’ll get up to 5 quotes from recommended movers. This service is free of charge and will help you select an international moving company that suits your needs and budget.
Get your free no-obligation quotes from select removal companies now!