Ever wondered how to access free public healthcare services once you’ve settled in Nova Scotia? The Nova Scotia Health Card, also known as Medical Services Insurance (MSI) card, is your key to the province’s publicly funded healthcare system. It gives you access to essential medical services without paying out of pocket expenses.
Whether you’re a newcomer, a student, or a Canadian moving from another province, applying for your health card is one of the most important steps to take after you arrive. So here’s Remitly’s simple, step-by-step guide to applying for a Nova Scotia Health Card.
We’ll cover what the MSI card is, who’s eligible to apply, the documents you’ll need, and the necessary steps to complete your application.
What is a Nova Scotia Health Card?
The Nova Scotia Health Card is your proof of coverage under the province’s public healthcare system. With this card, you can visit family doctors, see specialists, receive emergency treatment, and stay in hospital if you have to—all covered by the province.
Your health card also covers some medical procedures, lab tests like blood work or X-rays, and certain maternity and surgical services. It’s an essential piece of identification for all Nova Scotia residents. Without it, you may need to pay for Nova Scotia healthcare services that would otherwise be insured.
Are you eligible for a Nova Scotia Health Card?
To qualify for an MSI card, you’ll need to meet a few key eligibility requirements.
You’ll have to:
- Be a Canadian citizen or have an eligible immigration status
This includes permanent residents, certain work permits, and study permit holders who meet the MSI requirements. - Make Nova Scotia your permanent home
You should consider the province your primary place of residence and intend to live there long term. - Be physically present in Nova Scotia for at least 183 days each year
This confirms that you live in Nova Scotia for most of the year. - Be registered with the MSI
Your health coverage has to be linked to the Medical Service Insurance program.
If you’re unsure whether you qualify, reach out to MSI directly for clarification before applying. They can make sure you qualify based on your situation.
How to apply for a Nova Scotia Health Card
Applying for the Nova Scotia Health Card is simple, but there are quite a few bits and pieces to get together.
Step one: gather your documents
Before you start your application, collect all the required documents to make the process smoother. Remember, only original documents are accepted, photocopies aren’t valid.
Here’s a checklist to guide you.
Proof of Canadian identity
You’ll need to provide one of the following documents to confirm your Canadian identity:
- Canadian birth certificate
- Valid Canadian passport (or one that expired within the last five years)
- Canadian citizenship certificate or card (both sides)
- NEXUS card
- Registration of birth abroad
- Canadian military ID
- Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP) ID card
- Certificate of Indian status card
Proof of immigration status (if applicable)
If you’re not a Canadian citizen, don’t worry. That doesn’t mean you’re not eligible, but you’ll need to show valid immigration documents such as:
- Permanent resident card
- Work permit
- Study permit
If you’re in Nova Scotia on work or study permits, contact MSI Resident Services by mail or fax to apply for your health card. They’ll confirm your eligibility and guide you through the temporary residents application process.
Proof of Nova Scotia residency
In Canada, healthcare is organized along provincial and territorial lines, so you’ll need to show that you live in Nova Scotia to apply for the province’s MSI. So you’ll also have to provide one of the following:
- Mortgage documents
- Rental or lease agreement signed by both the landlord and tenant
- Utility bill (phone, power, cable, satellite, or water) dated within the last six months
- Insurance policy (home, tenant, or auto)
- Valid Nova Scotia’s driver’s licence or photo ID
- Valid Nova Scotia motor vehicle registration
- Child tax benefit statement
- Current-year property tax bill
- Bank statement
- Credit card statement
- Income assistance benefit statement
- Employment confirmation (recent pay stub or employer letter on company letterhead)
- Most recent notice of assessment
If you’re applying for an MSI card for the first time and don’t have any of the documents above, reach out to the MSI Registration and Inquiry Department directly for guidance on what alternatives may be accepted. You’ll find their contact details on the page we’ve linked to above. They’ll explain your options and help you complete your application successfully.
Step two: complete the application form
Once you’ve gathered your documents, it’s time to get the “Application for a Nova Scotia Health Card” form. You can get it in a couple of ways:
- By phone
Call the MSI Registration and Inquiry Department to request a form by mail and start your application process. - In person
Visit any MSI office or Access Nova Scotia centre to pick up a physical copy of the form.
After filling out your form, take a moment to review everything carefully because a small detail like a bit of missing or incorrect information can delay processing.
Step three: submit your application
Once your form is filled out, you’ve got two options for submitting your application:
- In person
Bring your completed form and original documents to any MSI office or Access Nova Scotia Centre. Submitting in person is usually the fastest way to get your MSI card because staff get to review your documents and answer any questions right away. - By mail
If visiting in-person isn’t convenient, send your application and documents to msi@medavie.ca.
Don’t forget to sign your form before submitting it—unsigned forms will not be processed, which will definitely delay your card. To find the nearest office, you can see the full list of MSI and Access Nova Scotia Centre locations, including addresses and opening hours, on the official government website.
Step four: that’s it—wait for your card
After your application is processed, your Nova Scotia Health Card will be mailed directly to the address listed on your form. While no specific timescales are given, processing usually takes a few weeks. If your card is taking longer than expected to arrive, you can contact MSI to check on the status of your application.
If you’ve just moved to Nova Scotia, there may be a short waiting period before your coverage officially begins. During this time, it’s a smart idea to consider temporary private health insurance to cover any medical costs that might come up. Even a basic plan can cover unexpected medical costs until your MSI coverage kicks in.
After you get your card
When your card arrives, sign it immediately. Your signature confirms it belongs to you and makes it valid for use when visiting a doctor, hospital, or other healthcare provider it covers.
Keep your card in a safe but easy-to-reach place so you can present it whenever you need medical care. If you move, change your name, or update your contact details, notify MSI as soon as possible. Keeping your information up to date with MSI helps prevent delays in accessing healthcare and ensures your coverage remains in place.
Your MSI card also has an expiry date, so be sure to renew it on time. About three months before your card expires, MSI will mail you a Health Card Renewal form. You can also download the form as a PDF from the MSI website or call the office to request a copy.
To renew, follow these steps:
- Complete the renewal form with all required details
- Sign the form to validate it
- Return the form to the MSI by mail or in person
Once MSI receives your renewal form and confirms your details, a new card will be mailed to you with an updated expiry date.
Your personal key to Nova Scotia’s healthcare
Having an MSI card ensures you can access the province’s public healthcare system whenever you need it. It acts as your personal pass to essential medical services, helping you avoid paying out of pocket for doctor visits or hospital care. If you ever lose your card, you can easily request a replacement from MSI to stay covered without interruptions.
To recap, start by confirming your eligibility, gathering all required documents, completing the application form, and submitting it in person or by mail. Once your card arrives, sign it, keep your information up to date, and renew before it expires. Following these steps ensures you always access the Nova Scotia healthcare system without interruptions. That’s it—get out there and enjoy the “Bluenose Province.”
FAQs
How do I apply for a Nova Scotia Health Card?
You can apply by completing the “Application for Nova Scotia Health Card” form and submitting it in person at an MSI office or Access Nova Scotia Centre, or by mailing it to the MSI Registration and Inquiry office. Be sure to gather all required documents before applying—check out what you must provide in our guide above.
Who’s eligible for a Nova Scotia Health Card?
You need to be a Canadian citizen, permanent resident, or hold a valid work or study permit to be eligible. You also need to make Nova Scotia your permanent home and line in Nova Scotia for at least 183 days each year. Be sure to keep proof of residency and immigration documents handy when applying, as MSI may request them.
Can I get a health card if I’m only temporarily in Nova Scotia?
It depends. As a temporary resident you might not be eligible for full coverage, especially if you’re there for less than 183 days in the year. Check with MSI for specific guidelines for short-term visitors, students, or temporary workers. If you’re not covered, consider purchasing private health insurance to ensure you’re protected during your stay.
Can I add dependents to my Nova Scotia Health Card?
Yes, you can register eligible dependents, such as children under 18 or those who qualify under MSI’s dependent criteria. Each dependent will receive their own card for access to health services. Remember to update MSI if your family circumstances change, such as adding a newborn or when a dependent moves away.
What if my card is lost or stolen?
Report the lost or stolen card to MSI immediately. You’ll need to request a replacement, which can typically be processed quickly once your identity is verified. Keep a copy of your health card information in a safe place so you can provide it if you’re asked for it while you’re waiting for a replacement.
Can I use my Nova Scotia Health Card in other provinces?
Yes, Canada has reciprocal health agreements, so your MSI card can be used for essential medical services when travelling or temporarily living in another province, but coverage may vary for certain services. It’s a good idea to check in advance which services are covered to avoid unexpected costs.