An individual must be a resident of B.C. in order to qualify for medical coverage under MSP. A resident is a person who meets all of the following conditions:
must be a citizen of Canada or be lawfully admitted to Canada for permanent residence;
must make his or her home in B.C.;
must be physically present in B.C. at least 6 months in a calendar year; and
dependents of MSP beneficiaries are eligible for coverage if they are residents of B.C.
Certain other individuals, such as some holders of study and/or work permits issued under the federal Immigration and Refugee Protection Act are deemed to be residents, but tourists or visitors to B.C. do not qualify. If you are uncertain about your eligibility status, contact MSP for assistance.