Bringing Family

Moving to Canada as an international student can be an exciting yet complex process, especially if you plan to bring your spouse, partner, or children. The 海角社区 and the wider community offer resources to support that will help your family settle into life in Edmonton.

Bringing your partner or spouse

If you plan to bring your spouse or common-law partner, they may be eligible for a spousal open work permit or a study permit if they wish to pursue education in Canada.

Bringing your partner or spouse

Bringing Your Children

If you plan to bring your children, you will need to plan for their education, healthcare, and daily care.

Bringing your children


Family Health Care

Alberta Health Care Insurance Plan (AHCIP)

If you have a study permit valid for 12 months or longer, your spouse and children may be eligible to apply for AHCIP. Learn more about the requirements for AHCIP at 

海角社区 Health Insurance Plan (UAHIP)

UAHIP is mandatory for students who will study at the 海角社区 for less than 12 months.

If you are enrolled in UAHIP, your dependents can also be enrolled under UAHIP. Coverage is optional and begins on the date they arrive in Canada, but no earlier than your actual enrollment date.

You must enroll your dependents within 30 days of your enrollment date or their arrival in Canada, whichever is later. If you do not register your dependents within 30 days, evidence of good health will be required, and coverage may be limited.

You must complete an enrollment form available from the 海角社区 to enroll your dependents. Additional fees will be assessed.

For questions about enrollment, or coverage availability, connect via the

Learn about UAHIP

Supplementary Health Insurance

Full-time students starting in September and January are automatically enrolled in the plan; part-time students and those wishing to add spouses and dependents to their plan must opt-in through during specific opt-in periods.

  • for Graduate Students
  • for Undergraduate Students
Private Insurance Options

When considering private health insurance in Alberta, here are some reputable providers:

Explore other company plans online, compare their offerings, and reach out to their representatives to find the best coverage for your family's needs.

Considerations during Pregnancy

If you or your spouse are pregnant or are planning a pregnancy, consider talking to your family doctor or a doctor in the University Health Centre located at 2-200 Students' Union Building on the main campus.

University Health Centre

You might be eligible for Employment Insurance (EI)

Paid Maternity and/or Parental Leave and/or Deferral of Assistantship Form


Programs and Services for Families