How to Apply for Alberta Health Card (AHCIP)
The official name of Alberta's health card is the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP). All new and returning eligible residents must register to receive insured hospital and health services. When accessing services, you need to show your personal health card (paper or mobile) along with photo ID.
Steps to Apply
Step 1: Check eligibility
Review the AHCIP eligibility requirements on the official website. Generally, you must establish residency in Alberta and be legally entitled to remain in Canada.
Step 2: Complete the application form
Download and fill out the Application form for AHCIP Coverage. If you are a parent or guardian who is not eligible for AHCIP but need coverage for your child, use the Application form for AHCIP Coverage: Canadian Children of Non-Eligible Parents. This form is also for custodians responsible for foreign students. Forms are also available at participating registries.
Step 3: Gather supporting documents
You must provide documents proving:
- Alberta residency: Alberta driver's license, utility or phone bills, mortgage or rental agreement, home insurance, vehicle registration.
- Identity: Passport, permanent resident card (both sides), Certificate of Indian Status issued by the Federal Government, government-issued driver's license, government-issued registries ID card, Canadian citizenship card.
- Legal entitlement to be in Canada: Canadian passport, permanent resident card (both sides), Certificate of Indian Status, Canadian birth certificate, Canada entry document (e.g., work or study permit), Canadian citizenship card or certificate (both sides), permanent resident card or confirmation document or letter.
If these documents are not provided, your application cannot be processed. You may be asked for additional documents to confirm eligibility.
Step 4: Submit the application
Bring the completed form and original documents to a participating registry. There is no charge for this service. Processing time can take up to 5 days. Paper cards are mailed to your home address.
Common Pitfalls
- Incomplete documents: Missing residency or legal status proof is the most common issue. Bring originals; copies are not accepted.
- Address changes: Provide a current mailing address to avoid lost cards.
- Waiting period: Processing takes up to 5 days, but mailing may take longer. If you get sick during the wait, you may need to pay out of pocket or seek reimbursement.
- Children: If parents are not eligible, children must be applied for separately using the specific form.
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