The physical and emotional health of every expectant mother is crucial. The Canadian health care system is funded by provinces and new mothers access different services. This post will address all your concerns and questions about immigrating to Canada when pregnant.
- Contact a licensed health practitioner
Registered nurses. Doctors and midwives can carry out pre-natal checkups and births in Canada. Some health practitioners may not be currently attending to new patients. Take advantage of online resources to find a doctor nearest to you.
You will need a referral from your family doctor before you can choose an Obstetrician (OB). One of the perks of having an OB is that they are experts at handling high-risk pregnancies. Most new mothers now prefer visiting midwives.
There are certain factors you must consider when choosing a health practitioner. Sound communication skills and the willingness to meet your needs matter.
- Health Insurance
It’s imperative to attend all the prenatal checkups whether you’re in your home country or abroad. Given this, take time to understand what the healthcare plan in your province entails.
It’s better to seek health care once you arrive in Canada instead of waiting for three months before enjoying the health care plan.
- Inform the immigration office about your status
There is no need to conceal your pregnancy status whenever you’re visiting the immigration office. It doesn’t matter if the pregnancy is a few weeks or months.
- Travel at the right time
It’s risky to travel when your delivery time is near. Given this, endeavor to travel when your pregnancy is around the 3rd – 6th months. The Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may not allow you to enter the country if your pregnancy is eight months or more.
Visit your doctor to obtain the necessary certifications before traveling. Hiring an immigration consultant is a wise decision during this period.
- Get the right visa
There is a category under the Temporary Resident Visa that allows expectant mothers to give birth in Canada. This type of visa is valid for a maximum of 6 months. During this period, women can reunite with their loved ones and go for medical appointments.
Temporary Resident Visa has its limitations. For instance, new mothers can’t become a permanent resident or become a citizen through it. However, the child will become a Canadian citizen instantly and can have a passport whether the parents are residents or not.
- Sufficient funds for the entire time you and your baby will spend in Canada.
- Must be ready to undergo a medical examination if the need arises.
Here are the documents you need to present when applying for the Temporary Resident Visa online:
- Financial statements indicating that you can support yourself throughout your stay in Canada.
- A short description of what you intend to do in Canada.
- Canada visa documents.
- Two photos that meet the Canada photo requirements.
- A letter of declaration to the government of Canada, stating the reason you should be granted a visa to give birth in Canada.
As you fill your form, remember to indicate “no” when asked whether you have a medical condition. This is because being pregnant isn’t recognized as a medical condition in Canada. The next thing is to submit your application and pay the visa application fee.
- Adhere to protective measures when handling food and water
Be wary of what you eat and drink when traveling. Endeavor to wash your hands often and stay away from sick people. It’s advisable to travel with a health kit to be on the safer side. You can ask your health care providers for some recommendations.
