Canada
Health
Before you travel, check that:
- your destination can provide the healthcare you may need
- you have appropriate travel insurance for local treatment or unexpected medical evacuation
This is particularly important if you have a health condition or are pregnant.
Emergency medical number
Dial 911 and ask for an ambulance.
Contact your insurance or medical assistance company quickly if you’re referred to a medical facility for treatment.
Vaccine recommendations and health risks
At least 8 weeks before your trip:
- check the latest vaccine recommendations for Canada
- see where to get vaccines and whether you have to pay on the NHS travel vaccinations page
See what health risks you’ll face in Canada.
Altitude sickness is a risk in parts of Canada, including skiing and hiking destinations in the Canadian Rockies such as Banff and Lake Louise. Read more about altitude sickness on TravelHealthPro.
Medication
The legal status and regulation of some medicines prescribed or bought in the UK can be different in other countries.
TravelHealthPro explains best practice when travelling with medicines.
The NHS has information on whether you can take your medicine abroad.
Healthcare in Canada
Medical treatment can be very expensive. There are no special arrangements for British visitors.
For emergency healthcare, go to a hospital emergency room or a walk-in clinic.
If you have dual British-Canadian citizenship, you may still have to pay for medical treatment if you do not meet provincial residency requirements for healthcare. Check with the relevant province or territory health ministry for more information.
COVID-19 healthcare in Canada
Public Health Canada has COVID-19 updates and guidance. These Twitter accounts are also official sources of information and guidance:
Travel and mental health
Read FCDO guidance on travel and mental health. There is also guidance on TravelHealthPro.