It affects new applicants for coverage and former residents returning to Canada after living in other countries for long periods. Exceptions are described below.
Several groups are exempt from the waiting period.
You must prove you meet the requirements for exemption. The waiting period will not affect insured residents who travel outside Ontario for less than 212 days in each 12-month period. All Ontario residents can spend up to 212 days a year outside the country without losing their OHIP eligibility. Also, people approved for continuous OHIP eligibility during a longer absence are not affected. The waiting period begins on the date you establish or re-establish residency in Ontario.