How to Apply for MSP in BC and the Waiting Period

Applying for MSP: Waiting Period and Steps

When you arrive in BC, the first thing is to apply for the Medical Services Plan (MSP). All BC residents must enrol in MSP. If you are new to Canada, apply as soon as you arrive, but your coverage may start three months after your arrival. During the wait, get private health insurance. If moving from another province, arrange coverage with your former plan. If your family is not here yet, they keep their existing provincial coverage; once they arrive, you can add them, and each family member's wait period starts on their individual arrival date.

How Long is the Waiting Period?

The wait period is the balance of the month you establish residence, plus two months. For example, if you arrive on June 15, the wait is June 16-30 plus July and August, with coverage starting September 1. Check official sources for exact dates.

Steps to Apply

Fill out the application: Use the 'BC Application for Health and Drug Coverage', which covers MSP, Supplementary Benefits, and Fair PharmaCare. You can apply online, in person at a ServiceBC location, or by mail. After MSP enrolment, the other benefits are processed automatically.
Get your B.C. Services Card: Adult residents (18 years and six months and older) must visit an ICBC driver licensing office. You need to:

Provide primary and secondary identification (see icbc.com/acceptedID);
Declare you are a B.C. resident;
Have your photo taken.

You can book an appointment (icbc.com/appointment) or walk in. Your Personal Health Number (PHN) will be printed on the card.

Under 18.5 or temporary document holders: You will automatically receive a Non-Photo B.C. Services Card by mail.

Common Pitfalls

Don't delay: Apply immediately upon arrival, or the wait period extends.
No coverage during wait: You pay out-of-pocket, so get private insurance or arrange previous provincial coverage.
Different arrival dates: Each family member's wait starts individually.
Renewal notices: If you already have MSP and get a renewal letter, don't submit a new application; just renew your card.
Group plans: If your MSP is through an employer, union, or pension plan, contact your group administrator.
CAF members: Not eligible themselves, but spouses and children can apply if residents; apply together.

Official Sources

How to apply for the Medical Services Plan (MSP) - Province of British Columbia