Things Your IEC Insurance (Probably) Won’t Cover in 2026

Just because you have acquired an insurance policy for your International Experience Canada (IEC) program, it does not mean you are universally covered for every possible adventure in Canada.

In this articles we’ve put together a list of things that are often NOT covered by IEC insurance policies, that could affect your plans in Canada. 

It is important to remember that every policy and provider is different. The only way you will know what is included and excluded from your personal IEC insurance coverage is to read your policy.

What IEC Insurance Won’t Cover: Common Exclusions

Common exclusions can be lumped into the following categories: 

• Health and Medical Exclusions
• Behaviour-Related Exclusions
• Geopolitical or Natural Disasters
• Coverage Issues due to Applicant Mistakes 

Let’s dig into what specific exclusions fall under each of these categories.

Health and Medical Insurance Exclusions

Pre-existing Conditions: Many travel health insurance policies do not cover medical conditions that existed before the policy was purchased, especially if the condition was not disclosed when obtaining the policy.

Pregnancy and Childbirth: Routine maternity care, childbirth, and complications arising from pregnancy are typically excluded. You will need specific coverage if you are or become pregnant during your IEC permit (unless you qualify for one Canada’s universal healthcare programs while on your temporary work permit). 

Mental Health Issues: Treatments for mental health conditions, including therapy and psychiatric care, are often excluded or have limited coverage.

Routine Check-ups: Preventive care, routine check-ups, and non-emergency medical services are generally not covered.

Dental Care: Emergency dental treatments may be covered, but routine dental care and procedures are usually excluded.

Elective Procedures: Cosmetic surgeries and other elective procedures are not covered under most travel health insurance plans.

Prescriptions and Medications: Expenses such as non-prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, and health supplements are usually not covered.

Experimental Treatments: Treatments or procedures that are considered experimental or not widely accepted in the medical community are usually not covered.

Chronic Conditions: Long-term treatment for chronic conditions may not be covered, or coverage might be limited.

Unlicensed Medical Providers: Treatment received from unlicensed medical providers may not be covered.

Self-inflicted Injuries: Any injuries or illnesses resulting from self-harm or attempted suicide are typically not covered.

Travel Against Medical Advice: If you travel against the advice of a medical professional, any resulting medical issues may not be covered.

Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): Treatment for STIs is often excluded from coverage.

Behaviour-Related Insurance Exclusions

High-risk Activities: Injuries sustained while participating in extreme sports or high-risk activities (e.g., skydiving, scuba diving, mountain climbing or snow sports) are often not covered unless you purchase additional coverage. IEC policies do differ in this regard though, so you should definitely review your sports coverage if you plan to visit Canada’s backcountry. 

• Learn more about snow sports coverage.

Racing and organized events: It’s common for racing and organized sports events to be excluded from travel and health insurance policies. Again, these do vary from policy-to-policy so be sure to read yours if you intend to participate in sports events or races. 

Alcohol and Substance Abuse: Injuries or illnesses resulting from alcohol or drug abuse are typically excluded. This can be strictly interpreted, so if you are intoxicated and look the wrong way to cross a street and are hit by a vehicle, you may not be covered. 

Fraudulent Claims: Any claims found to be fraudulent or resulting from illegal activities are not covered.

Geopolitical or Natural Disasters

Ignoring Travel Warnings: Traveling to a destination with an active government-issued travel warning can void your insurance coverage if you buy your coverage and book your travel after the warning is in place. Always check for travel warnings from your government before booking your trip and monitor updates regularly.

War and Terrorism: Injuries or illnesses resulting from acts of war, terrorism, or civil unrest are often excluded from coverage.

Natural Disasters: Coverage may be limited or excluded if your trip is affected by natural disasters such as earthquakes, hurricanes, or floods, unless specifically covered in the policy.

Civil Disorder: Coverage may be excluded for events that arise out of civil disorder or political instability in the country you’re visiting.

Coverage Issues due to Applicant Mistakes

Applying for the Wrong Visa or Being Denied Entry: If you mistakenly apply for the wrong visa or are denied entry to your destination, your insurance policy may not cover any related expenses. This can include non-refundable flight tickets, accommodation bookings, or other pre-paid travel costs. Always ensure that your visa application is accurate and complete to avoid these costly mistakes.

Missing Your Flight (and It’s Your Fault): If you miss your flight due to your own negligence—such as arriving late to the airport or failing to check the flight details—your insurance policy may not cover the costs of rebooking or other related expenses. 

Expired Passport: Traveling with an expired passport or one that is close to expiration can lead to significant issues, including being denied boarding or entry into a country. If your trip is disrupted due to an expired passport, your insurance may not cover any losses or additional costs incurred.

Unattended Baggage: Leaving your baggage unattended, even for a short time, can void any insurance coverage for lost or stolen items. Many policies require that your belongings be under your direct supervision or securely stored in a designated area. 

Disappointment with Your Holiday: If your holiday doesn’t meet your expectations—whether it’s due to bad weather, disappointing accommodations, or poor service—these issues are generally not covered by travel insurance.

Expensive Items: High-value items, such as electronics or luxury goods, may have limited coverage or be excluded altogether unless you purchase additional coverage.

IEC Insurance From BestQuote

Our partner BestQuote offers IEC Insurance for those coming to Canada through the International Experience Canada program. You can get coverage for up to 24 months, and you can purchase Best Quote’s insurance either before you leave your home country or while you’re already travelling.

The average cost of BestQuote’s IEC insurance, including snow sports coverage, is $1,825 with a $0 excess.

Start with a free, no-obligation quote

Further resources for IEC Applicants

• We also have an article where talked about what an IEC Health insurance actually covers, check that out!
• Use our tool to calculate your real-time odds of receiving an Invitation to Apply for IEC. 
• Learn more about the latest IEC draws and pool updates. 
• Increase your chances by applying for the best IEC program for your profile. Read our article about  Which IEC Category is Right for me?
• Improving your chances: Can You Enter More Than One IEC Pool at the Same Time? Find out here.

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