BC MSP Health Fee for Students
Rules, registration steps, and the monthly $75 premium for B.C. Medical Services Plan coverage.
B.C. assesses a mandatory **$75 CAD monthly health fee** (premium) on all international students enrolled in BC MSP. This fee must be paid directly to the government every month. Failure to pay will result in collections actions and can delay study permit renewals or PGWP approvals.
BC MSP Eligibility for Students
Under B.C. law, all residents must enroll in the Medical Services Plan (MSP). For international students, the conditions are:
- Study Permit Validity: Hold a study permit valid for at least **6 months**.
- Residency Threshold: You must be staying in British Columbia for at least **6 continuous months**.
- Wait Period (The 3-Month Rule): B.C. has a waiting period consisting of the balance of the month you arrive plus two calendar months. You **must purchase private medical insurance** to cover you during this initial 3-month wait time.
How to Enroll in BC MSP
Apply online as soon as you arrive in B.C. to ensure your card is processed before your private insurance expires:
- Prepare Documents: Take high-quality scans of your study permit and passport ID page.
- Submit Online: Visit the official Health Insurance BC (HIBC) site and fill out the MSP online application form.
- Receive BC Services Card: Once approved, you will receive your B.C. Services Card (BCSC) with your unique Personal Health Number (PHN) by mail.
- Set Up Pre-authorized Payments: Go online to your bank or HIBC portal and set up automated pre-authorized payments for your $75 monthly invoice to avoid missing payments.
What is Covered under BC MSP?
The Medical Services Plan covers all medically required health services in British Columbia:
- Physician Visits: Free consults with family doctors and specialists.
- Hospital Services: Medically required surgeries, anesthetics, and emergency care.
- Exclusions: Prescription drugs, dental care, eye examinations (under 19/over 65 exceptions apply), and physiotherapy are **not covered**. Many students get supplemental private insurance through their university student union (e.g. AMS/GSS at UBC).
This guide compiles official B.C. health ministry guidelines and student fee rules sourced directly from:
• B.C. Government MSP for International Students portal: gov.bc.ca/bc-msp-students
• B.C. Government Health Fee payment instructions: gov.bc.ca/bc-health-fee