You should apply for your PEI Health Card as soon as possible after you arrive in Canada. To access health services funded by the Province of Prince Edward Island, you must have a valid health card. You must present this card whenever you need health services at a doctor's office, nurse practitioner's office or hospital.

All residents of Prince Edward Island are eligible for the Island Health Card. You are considered a resident of PEI if:

  • you are legally entitled to be in Canada and
  • Prince Edward Island is your principal residence for at least six months plus one day of each year.

You are not eligible for the PEI Health Card if you are an international student unable to work off-campus, a tourist, travelling or visiting PEI.

Arriving in PEI Each person must have an individual card.

To apply, you must submit a completed health card application with the required documents. A family may use one application for all family members living together. Photocopies or digital images of documents are acceptable.

Permanent residents must submit confirmation of the permanent residence document or PR card.


Work permit holders must submit:

  • a valid work permit allowing the holder to legally work in Prince Edward Island for at least 183 days, and
  • a valid passport.


International students must submit:

  • a valid study permit indicating that the applicant may work off-campus, and
  • verification of current, full-time enrolment at an accredited educational institution.


The completed application and appropriate documentation may be submitted in person at any Access Î P É site, Health Î P É office or Medicare Î P É office, by mail or online. [See Related Resources]

If applying by mail, send the completed application form, along with copies of appropriate documents, to:
Medicare Services
PO Box 3000, 126 Douses Road
Montague, PE C0A 1R0



The PEI Health Card has an expiry date and must be renewed every five years for Canadian citizens and permanent residents. You will receive a renewal notice in the mail approximately two months before your card expires.

Eligible international students must submit their documentation once a year.