If you are new to Saskatchewan and have come from another part of Canada, you must register for health coverage. As a general rule, coverage will begin on the first day of the third calendar month following the date you established residency here. (This excludes people who are eligible for benefits under other Saskatchewan or federal programs).

For example, if you established residency in Saskatchewan September 27th, Saskatchewan Health would begin to cover you on December 1st.

You will have no interruption in health coverage if you move within Canada, as your home province covers you until your Saskatchewan benefits take effect.

Married/Common-law couples

A. If you arrive in Saskatchewan and your spouse doesn't arrive with you, but joins you within 12 months of your arrival, Saskatchewan Health begins coverage for both of you starting the first day of the third calendar month following the arrival of your spouse in the province.

B. If your spouse does not join you within the 12-month period, coverage eligibility in Saskatchewan will differ.

For example, if you arrived in Saskatchewan January 1st, 1999 and your spouse joins you in June 2000, Saskatchewan Health begins your coverage January 1st 2000, and your spouse's coverage September 1st, 2000.

In both situations, your former province of residence will continue to cover you while you're in Saskatchewan pending the beginning of Saskatchewan coverage.