**Please review the disclaimer at the end of this document before reading or using this guide.

For new immigrants settling in Alberta, Canada, obtaining an Alberta Health Card is a critical step to ensure you have access to healthcare services. The Alberta Health Card, issued by the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP), allows you to receive necessary medical services covered under the provincial health insurance program. This guide provides information on how to apply for your Alberta Health Card efficiently.

Step 1: Understand Eligibility

To be eligible for an Alberta Health Card, you must:

• Be legally entitled to be or to remain in Canada and make your permanent home in Alberta.
• Live in Alberta for at least 183 days in a 12-month period.
• Not be claiming residency or obtaining benefits under a health plan in another province, territory, or country.
• Any other person deemed by the regulations to be a resident or temporary resident, not including a tourist, transient or visitor to Alberta

Step 2: Gather Required Documents

You need to provide specific documents to prove your identity, legal entitlement to reside in Canada, and Alberta residency. The required documents include:

Proof of Identity:

• Canadian or foreign passport
• Canadian citizenship certificate
• Permanent resident card

Proof of Legal Entitlement to Be in Canada:

• Permanent resident card or Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) document
• Work permit
• Study permit

Proof of Alberta Residency:

• Lease agreement or rental agreements
• Utility bills such as phone/electricity bill
• Bank statements/void checks
• Employment confirmation letter

Ensure all documents are original, valid, and not expired.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

You need to fill out the Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP) Coverage for All Albertans application form. You can obtain the form from the Alberta Health website or pick it up from an authorized registry agent.

Step 4: Submit Your Application

There are two main ways to submit your AHCIP application: in person or by mail.

In Person:

1. Locate the nearest authorized registry agent office using the Alberta Health website.
2. Visit the registry agent office with your completed application form and original supporting documents.
3. A registry agent will verify your documents, process your application, and provide you with a temporary document as proof of health care coverage until your Alberta Health Card arrives by mail.

By Mail:

1. Complete the AHCIP application form and make photocopies of your supporting documents.
2. Mail the application form and photocopies to the following address:Alberta Health
   Attention: Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan
   PO Box 1360, Station Main
   Edmonton, Alberta  T5J 2N3

You will receive your Alberta Health Card by mail once your application is processed.

Step 5: Wait for Your Alberta Health Card

After submitting your application, it typically takes two to four weeks to receive your Alberta Health Card by mail. During this period, you can use the temporary document provided by the registry agent as proof of your health care coverage.

Step 6: Keep Your Alberta Health Card Secure

Once you receive your Alberta Health Card, it is important to keep it secure. Here are some tips:

• Always carry your health card with you, especially when accessing medical services.
• Do not share your health card number unnecessarily to protect your personal information.
• Notify Alberta Health immediately if your card is lost, stolen, or damaged to get a replacement.

Applying for an Alberta Health Card is a vital step for new immigrants to ensure access to essential healthcare services. By following the steps outlined above and providing the necessary documents, you can efficiently obtain your Alberta Health Card and secure your health coverage. Welcome to Alberta, and we wish you a healthy and prosperous future in your new home!

**DISCLAIMER: This document was prepared based on information gathered from various online sources. While our aim is to provide accurate and helpful information to newcomers in Canada, Active Action cannot be held responsible for any actions, outcomes, or situations that may arise from the use of this document. We strongly recommend that you verify any details with official sources or relevant authorities if you have any doubts or uncertainties about any information provided in this document. If you have any specific questions about the information in this document, or if you notice any inaccuracies or missing information, please inform us immediately through the contact form. We will respond to you as soon as possible and/or update the information as necessary.