A health card (or, OHIP card), lets you can access free health care services paid for by the Ontario Health Insurance Plan.  

When Can I get a Health Card?

To get a health card, you have to be living in Ontario for at least 3 months after you apply for OHIP. You can apply for OHIP as soon as you have these necessary documents:

• Proof of citizenship or OHIP eligible status
• Proof that you live in Ontario
• Personal identification

Read more information about the 3-month OHIP waiting period. From the Ministry of Health.

How do I pay for health care during the first 3 months when I don’t have OHIP?

A few people do not have to wait 3 months for OHIP:

• Convention refugees or protected persons. They can apply for the Interim Federal Health Program to help pay for medical care.
• Babies born in Ontario

For low-cost or free health care, visit a community health clinic for help during these 3 months. There are a few clinics that serve youth in Ontario.