Moving to Alberta temporarily from BC- can i get AB health card? BC MSP card active during 'extended absence'?
Hi guys, I will be moving to Alberta for a volunteering program and some part-time work for around 2 years. As a BC resident this qualifies for a "extended absence"(https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/health/health-drug-coverage/msp/bc-residents/managing-your-msp-account/leaving-bc-temporarily) and I get to keep my BC health care if i don't return to BC for more than 30 days in that period.
During the 2year period, i plan to return to BC routinely once every few month. As such will Alberta consider me as a "temporary worker":(https://www.alberta.ca/ahcip-temporary-residents)?
Temporary workers from outside Alberta – Canadians or permanent residents
If you come to Alberta to work, but maintain your home in another province or territory and return home regularly, you should maintain your health insurance coverage in your home province or territory.
If so, would I be able allowed to get a AB health card? If i can't, can i just use my BC MSP card for coverage in Alberta?
Regarding coverage, my understanding is that doctors will bill Alberta gov and BC will reconcile with AB on the backend, so I would just be treated as if I am in BC and am seeing a BC doctor-is this right?
Thanks!
Posted Jul 29, 2025, 6:16 AM UTC