Medical Tourism for Canadians 2026: Top Procedures and Safest Destinations

Over 105,000 Canadians travelled abroad for medical care in 2025, seeking faster treatment and access to procedures delayed by our overwhelmed healthcare system.^[1] As wait times stretch longer and costs climb, medical tourism has become a practical option for many—but it requires careful planning, research, and understanding of both the opportunities and risks involved.

Why Canadians Are Seeking Medical Care Abroad

The reality is stark: most Canadians have experienced or know someone who's endured months-long waits for healthcare treatment.^[2] This frustration is driving a significant shift in how people access medical services.

An estimated 105,529 Canadian patients left the country for treatment in 2025, representing approximately 2.1 percent of all medical procedures performed on Canadians that year.^[2] More striking still, this number has jumped by 66 percent over the last decade, signalling a growing trend.^[2]

The reasons are straightforward: lengthy provincial wait times, limited access to specialists, concerns about treatment quality, and the desire for advanced technology. Many Canadians report paying twice for healthcare—first through taxes, then out-of-pocket for international procedures.^[2]

The Scale of Medical Tourism for Canadians

The numbers paint a compelling picture. While the Fraser Institute estimates 105,529 Canadians travelled abroad in 2025, the Medical Tourism Association projects a much larger figure: around 432,000 Canadians are expected to seek treatment abroad in 2025, representing a 44 percent increase from two years earlier.^[4]

The discrepancy likely reflects different methodologies—the Fraser Institute tracks documented cases, while the Medical Tourism Association's estimate includes broader medical travel. Either way, the trend is unmistakable: Canadians are increasingly crossing borders for care they can't access quickly at home.

Top Medical Procedures Canadians Seek Abroad

Not all procedures are equally sought internationally. According to the Fraser Institute's 2025 report, urology leads the way:

• Urology: 12,697 patients (3.7 percent of all urology procedures performed on Canadians)^[3]
• General surgery: 10,320 patients^[3]
• Internal medicine procedures: 8,304 patients (including colonoscopies, gastroscopies, and angiographies)^[3]
• Ophthalmology: 6,482 patients^[3]

Beyond these, medical tourists commonly pursue cardiac surgeries, orthopedic procedures, dental work, and cosmetic treatments.^[5] The common thread? These are procedures with significant wait times in Canada or those not fully covered by provincial health plans.

Top Medical Tourism Destinations for Canadians

Canadians aren't randomly selecting destinations. Geography, cultural connections, cost savings, and healthcare quality all play a role in where people choose to travel.

Mexico

Mexico remains a top choice for Canadians, particularly those in western provinces.^[4] The proximity to Canada, established networks of accredited facilities, and competitive pricing make it an accessible option. General surgery, dental work, and cosmetic procedures are popular choices.

India

India is a powerhouse in medical tourism, receiving around 500,000 medical tourists annually.^[5] The Indian medical tourism market is valued at approximately $6 billion.^[5] For Canadians, particularly second- and third-generation Indo-Canadians, India combines cultural familiarity with exceptional cost savings—patients can experience savings of 65-90 percent on medical expenses compared to Western countries.^[5] Cardiac surgery and orthopedic procedures are particularly sought-after treatments.^[5]

Thailand

Thailand has emerged as a premier destination, with over 2.5 million medical tourists visiting annually.^[5] The country boasts over 100 hospitals and clinics accredited by the Joint Commission International (JCI).^[5] Medical treatments in Thailand cost 30-70 percent less than in Western countries.^[5] The number of medical tourists visiting Thailand has increased by 20 percent per year in recent years.^[5]

Turkey (Türkiye)

Türkiye is gaining significant traction for dental and cosmetic work.^[4] Real-world example: a Montreal resident, Michelle Renaud, is headed to Türkiye for two dental implants costing under $5,500—including two flights—compared to over $10,000 in Canada, even with insurance.^[4]

Costa Rica

Costa Rica is one of the countries scaling up medical services and attracting Canadian patients.^[4] It's particularly popular for procedures like hip and knee replacements, dental work, and cosmetic surgery.

Other Popular Destinations

Israel, Malaysia, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United States also attract Canadian medical tourists, depending on the procedure and individual circumstances.^[9]

Cost Savings: What You Can Expect

One of the primary drivers of medical tourism is cost. Canadians can save between 30 and 90 percent depending on the destination and procedure.^[4] For context:

• India: 65-90 percent savings^[5]
• Thailand: 30-70 percent savings^[5]
• Mexico: Competitive pricing, particularly for dental and cosmetic work
• Türkiye: Significant savings on dental implants and cosmetic procedures

However, remember that you're paying out-of-pocket. While the procedure itself may be cheaper, factor in flights, accommodation, travel companions, time off work, and any follow-up care needed back in Canada.

Geographic Variations Across Canada

Where you live influences whether you're likely to seek care abroad. Alberta had the highest proportion of patients leaving the country for treatment at 3.0 percent of procedures, while Ontario had the largest absolute number with 51,538 patients travelling abroad for care.^[3]

This variation likely reflects differences in provincial healthcare wait times, specialist availability, and demographic factors.

Important Considerations Before You Go

Verify Accreditation and Credentials

Not all international facilities meet the same standards as Canadian hospitals. Look for accreditation from recognized bodies like the Joint Commission International (JCI). Research the surgeon's credentials, experience, and patient reviews.

Understand Your Coverage

Provincial health plans typically don't cover procedures performed abroad. Check whether your private insurance will cover any portion of international treatment. Some policies may provide coverage if the procedure isn't available in Canada within a reasonable timeframe.

Plan for Follow-Up Care

You'll need post-operative care in Canada. Before travelling, arrange with a Canadian physician to manage your follow-up treatment, monitor for complications, and ensure proper healing. This continuity is crucial.

Consider Travel and Recovery Time

Factor in time for travel, the procedure, and recovery. Flying long distances shortly after surgery increases risks of blood clots and other complications. Build in adequate recovery time before flying home.

Communicate with Your Canadian Doctor

Inform your family physician about your plans. They may provide valuable guidance and will need records from your international treatment for ongoing care.

The Bottom Line

Medical tourism represents a pragmatic response to Canada's healthcare challenges. For procedures with long wait times or limited access, seeking treatment abroad can reduce suffering and accelerate recovery. However, it's not a decision to make lightly.

Do your research thoroughly. Verify credentials and accreditation. Understand the costs and what's included. Plan for follow-up care in Canada. Communicate with your Canadian physician. And ensure you have adequate travel and medical insurance.

Over 105,000 Canadians made this choice in 2025.^[1] If you're considering it, take the time to make an informed decision that prioritizes both your health and your financial security.