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Eligibility for health benefits

Saskatchewan residents 

You’re generally eligible for Saskatchewan health coverage if you: 

  • live in Saskatchewan and plan to keep living here
  • are physically present in the province for at least five months each year
  • can provide the required documents, including proof that you can legally be in Canada and proof that you live in Saskatchewan  

Members of the Canadian Forces and people incarcerated in a federal penitentiary are covered through federal government programs. Their spouses and dependents must apply for provincial health coverage. 

Moving from another Canadian province or territory

If you’re moving to Saskatchewan from another Canadian province or territory, your Saskatchewan health coverage may begin on the first day of the third month after you move here. For example, if you moved to Saskatchewan on September 27, your coverage would begin December 1. 

Married or common-law couples moving on different dates

If your spouse moves to Saskatchewan within 12 months of your arrival, you’ll both have Saskatchewan health coverage on the first day of the third month after your spouse arrives. 

If your spouse moves more than 12 months after you, your coverage will be decided separately. 

Moving from outside Canada

If you’re moving to Saskatchewan from outside Canada, you may qualify for Saskatchewan health coverage on or before the first day of the third month after you arrive in Canada if you are: 

  • a permanent resident
  • a person discharged from the Canadian Forces
  • the returning spouse of a Canadian Forces member
  • a worker or businessperson who is allowed to live in Canada temporarily for work
  • an international student
  • a returning Canadian citizen        

Moving out of Saskatchewan

If you’re moving to another Canadian province or territory, your Saskatchewan health coverage continues for: 

  • the remainder of the month in which you moved
  • the next two full months

For example, if you move from Saskatchewan in September, your Saskatchewan health coverage would end November 30. 

Update your mailing address with eHealth Saskatchewan. Apply for health coverage in your new province or territory as soon as you arrive.  

Students

Saskatchewan students studying outside the province

To keep your Saskatchewan health coverage, update your health card information, provide proof that you’re enrolled in full-time school and that you plan to live in Saskatchewan after completing your studies. You can retain your coverage by: 

  • updating your address and other contact information
  • providing an extended absence notification online including confirmation of enrolment  

If you’re studying outside Canada, get extra medical insurance before you leave. Saskatchewan’s out-of-country health coverage is limited, and health care costs outside Canada can be high.  

Students from other provinces 

If you live in another Canadian province or territory and are studying in Saskatchewan, you should keep your health coverage with your home province or territory. For more information, contact the Health Registries office in your home province. 

International students 

If you’re an international student living in Saskatchewan temporarily, you may qualify for Saskatchewan health coverage. Find out how to apply for a health card.  

Include the following with your application:

  • Proof that you’re enrolled full-time at an accredited educational institution
  • A valid study permit issued by Immigration, Refugee and Citizenship Canada (IRCC)

Temporary absence from Saskatchewan 

If you're living outside Saskatchewan temporarily and plan to return, contact eHealth Saskatchewan to keep your Saskatchewan health card active.

Update your health card if you'll be outside Saskatchewan for more than seven months because of:

  • vacation, visiting, business travel or employment within Canada for up to 12 months
  • employment outside Canada for up to 24 months

If you have additional information or documents to support your eligibility for Saskatchewan health benefits, complete the Appeal form and submit the supporting documentation.