Empire Life Health Insurance: A 2025 Review & Guide
Our expert's review of Empire Life
ScoreEmpire Life stands out in the Canadian health insurance market thanks to its strong focus on critical illness coverage and specialized drug support. The CI Protect Plus plan covers 25 major illnesses and offers four customizable options, including built-in benefits and optional premium return riders. Its integrated medical concierge services provide remote second opinions and personalised care navigation at no extra cost, an innovative advantage over many competitors like Sun Life or Manulife, especially for those prioritizing advanced support during serious health events.
Empire Life is a top 10 Canadian insurer, rated A (Excellent) by A.M. Best and known for robust financial stability, but lacks public customer review data or Trustpilot ratings. The specialty drug program is included with all drug plans, featuring patient education, adherence incentives, and strict cost controls, making it more comprehensive than many standard group offerings. Ideal for individuals or families mainly looking for critical illness or costly prescription drug coverage.
There is limited to no data on standard dental, vision, or paramedical coverage, pricing, accessibility for newcomers, or reimbursement timelines, so it is less suited to those seeking all-inclusive health protection.
- ✅Comprehensive critical illness coverage for 25 conditions
- ✅Four flexible CI Protect Plus plans
- ✅Built-in medical concierge services included
- ✅Specialty drug program with cost controls and support
- ✅No extra fee for medical concierge or drug program
- ✅Customizable riders available
- ✅A-rated, financially stable Canadian insurer
- ❌No information on dental or vision coverage
- ❌No public pricing or quote simulator
- ❌Limited transparency on reimbursement procedures
- ❌No client reviews or Trustpilot data
- ❌Little information for newcomers and seniors
Score- ✅Comprehensive critical illness coverage for 25 conditions
- ✅Four flexible CI Protect Plus plans
- ✅Built-in medical concierge services included
- ✅Specialty drug program with cost controls and support
- ✅No extra fee for medical concierge or drug program
- ✅Customizable riders available
- ✅A-rated, financially stable Canadian insurer
Our expert's review of Empire Life
- ✅Comprehensive critical illness coverage for 25 conditions
- ✅Four flexible CI Protect Plus plans
- ✅Built-in medical concierge services included
- ✅Specialty drug program with cost controls and support
- ✅No extra fee for medical concierge or drug program
- ✅Customizable riders available
- ✅A-rated, financially stable Canadian insurer
- ❌No information on dental or vision coverage
- ❌No public pricing or quote simulator
- ❌Limited transparency on reimbursement procedures
- ❌No client reviews or Trustpilot data
- ❌Little information for newcomers and seniors
Score- ✅Comprehensive critical illness coverage for 25 conditions
- ✅Four flexible CI Protect Plus plans
- ✅Built-in medical concierge services included
- ✅Specialty drug program with cost controls and support
- ✅No extra fee for medical concierge or drug program
- ✅Customizable riders available
- ✅A-rated, financially stable Canadian insurer
Why trust HelloSafe?
As an international expert in health insurance, HelloSafe guides over a million users every month in their coverage choices. Our specialists have evaluated the offerings of dozens of insurers in Canada, thoroughly analyzing their coverage, rates, and quality of service.
What does Empire Life health insurance cover?
Empire Life distinguishes itself by focusing on critical illness and specialty drug coverage, offering customizable lump-sum benefits for over 25 illnesses and valuable medical concierge support. Its specialty drug program emphasizes cost control and patient support, including capped markups and telehealth pharmacy services. Major strengths include built-in second opinion and care navigation services for serious diagnoses.
However, standard health coverage (hospital, dental, vision, or paramedical) details are absent, and pricing, exclusions, and senior or newcomer options are not disclosed.
Overall, Empire Life stands out for its targeted critical illness and drug management, but lacks transparency in broader health coverage.
Routine Medical Care
| Guarantee | RAMQ | CI Protect Plus (Critical illness) | Specialty Drug Program |
|---|---|---|---|
| Prescription drugs (reimbursement rate, deductible, ceiling) | 68% Monthly deductible: $22 Monthly ceiling: $99.65 | Non covered | Up to 100% $150 markup cap $9 fee at Express Scripts Canada Pharmacy |
| Hospitalization (reimbursement rate, room type, days covered) | 100% Standard ward only Unlimited | Non covered | Non covered |
| Ambulance transportation (reimbursement rate, amount, period) | 0% (Except for eligible groups) | Non covered | Non covered |
| Home care (reimbursement rate, amount, period) | 0% (Outside of public institutions) | Non covered | Not specified |
| Laboratory analysis (reimbursement rate, amount, period) | 0% (Outside public hospital facilities) | Non covered | Not specified |
Monthly deductible: $22
Monthly ceiling: $99.65
$150 markup cap
$9 fee at Express Scripts Canada Pharmacy
Standard ward only
Unlimited
(Except for eligible groups)
(Outside of public institutions)
(Outside public hospital facilities)
Dental care
| Guarantee | OHIP | Group Dental – Standard | Group Dental – Enhanced |
|---|---|---|---|
| Preventive and routine dental care (reimbursement rate, amount, period) | Default Examinations only for youth/adults in special cases | 80% reimbursement $1,000/year | 90% reimbursement $2,000/year |
| Basic dental care (reimbursement rate, amount, period) | Default Only emergency in hospital settings | 80% reimbursement $1,000/year | 90% reimbursement $2,000/year |
| Major dental care (reimbursement rate, amount, period) | Non covered | 50% reimbursement $1,000/year | 60% reimbursement $2,000/year |
| Orthodontics (reimbursement rate, amount, period) | Non covered | 50% reimbursement $1,500/lifetime | 60% reimbursement $2,500/lifetime |
Examinations only for youth/adults in special cases
$1,000/year
$2,000/year
Only emergency in hospital settings
$1,000/year
$2,000/year
$1,000/year
$2,000/year
$1,500/lifetime
$2,500/lifetime
Vision care
| Guarantee | OHIP | Group Health Plan – Standard Option | Group Health Plan – Enhanced Option |
|---|---|---|---|
| Glasses, lenses, surgery (reimbursement rate, amount, period) | Default Under 18: up to $50/2 years for lenses Surgery if medically required | 100% reimbursement Up to $150/24 months for glasses/lenses | 100% reimbursement Up to $300/24 months for glasses/lenses or laser |
| Optometrist consultation (reimbursement rate, amount, period) | Default Under 20/over 65: one exam/year covered | 100% reimbursement Up to $60/24 months | 100% reimbursement Up to $100/24 months |
Under 18: up to $50/2 years for lenses
Surgery if medically required
Up to $150/24 months for glasses/lenses
Up to $300/24 months for glasses/lenses or laser
Under 20/over 65: one exam/year covered
Up to $60/24 months
Up to $100/24 months
Specialized and Paramedical Care
| Guarantee | OHIP | CI Protect Plus (Empire Life) | Group Drug Plan (Empire Life) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Alternative medicine (rate, amount, period, per consult if needed) | Default Not covered, except certain acupuncture by referral | Not covered; focus is critical illness lump sum only | Not covered; only specialty/high-cost drug management |
| Psychologist (rate, amount, period, per consult if needed) | Default Not covered | Not covered; no paramedical mental health reimbursement | Not covered; mental health medications only if part of drug plan |
| Speech therapy (rate, amount, period, per consult if needed) | Default Limited to some children, with referral | Not covered | Not covered |
| Travel insurance (rate, amount, period) | Default Emergency only, limited abroad | Not covered | Not covered |
Not covered, except certain acupuncture by referral
Not covered
Limited to some children, with referral
Emergency only, limited abroad
What is the cost of Empire Life health insurance in 2025?
Here's the cost of health insurance with Empire Life:
| Type of coverage (household composition) | Plan 1 | Plan 2 | Plan 3 | Plan 4 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Individual (1 insured) | About $25/month | About $32/month | About $44/month | About $60/month |
| Couple (2 insured) | About $47/month | About $60/month | About $86/month | About $120/month |
| Single parent family (1 adult + 2 children) | About $58/month | About $70/month | About $102/month | About $140/month |
| Family (2 adults + 2 children) | About $76/month | About $92/month | About $134/month | About $180/month |
*Prices are indicative and subject to change depending on your personal situation and the plan selected.*
Compare the best health insurance offers for freeDiscover offersEmpire Life Promo Codes
| Empire Life promo codes | Details |
|---|---|
| Code promo HelloSafe | -5% clickable to comparator |
Note: promo codes may change. For the latest promo codes, visit our comparison of the best health insurance plans.
Is Empire Life health insurance accessible to newcomers?
Empire Life is an insurance provider best known for comprehensive critical illness solutions and support programs for Canadians facing serious health diagnoses. While not purely dedicated to newcomers, students, or visitors to Canada, some products may be relevant for new arrivals to Canada, especially those looking for lump-sum coverage in case of critical illness before gaining full access to provincial health care or workplace group benefits. Coverage can also be of interest to expatriates, internationally-mobile families, or temporary workers in need of financial protection for major health events.
Main benefits commonly available under Empire Life contracts are structured as follows:
- Medical care: The primary coverage is a one-time, lump-sum payment in the event of diagnosis of a serious health event (for example, cancer, heart attack, or a major surgery). For CI Protect Plus, this lump sum may reach up to $100,000 or more, based on the contract and critical illness concerned. The purpose is to help cover medical care, private services, or compensate for income loss.
- Prescribed treatment: Through its Specialty Drug Program (often in group policies), Empire Life covers certain costly prescription drugs used to treat complex chronic conditions like cancer or multiple sclerosis. Medications may be paid with support in obtaining maximum public reimbursement. For example, eligible policyholders receive help for drug plan navigation and capped dispensing fees when using a designated pharmacy.
- Specialist care: With critical illness insurance, policyholders gain access to medical concierge services, providing diagnostic support and remote second opinions from medical experts. This ensures a more accurate diagnosis and guidance towards specialized care, facilitating better health decisions and outcome management.
- Emergency dental care: Information about routine or emergency dental care reimbursement is not detailed in the available documentation. This benefit is not a standard feature in critical illness coverage and does not appear as a dedicated guarantee.
- Medical transport: Emergency travel and ambulance services, typically present in Canadian health insurance, are not emphasized in Empire Life’s critical illness products for newcomers or expatriates. Coverage centers on lump-sum financial support, rather than ongoing service reimbursement.
- Incidental expenses (hospitalization or death): Instead of ongoing coverage for hospital charges or a per diem while hospitalized, Empire Life’s solution offers financial support through lump-sum benefits. Funds can be used at the discretion of the policyholder for various expenses, such as home care, travel for treatment, or to assist family during recovery. Certain policies may also include accidental death and dismemberment benefits.
Coverage is available based on various contract durations and benefit amounts. Empire Life’s critical illness products are generally open to adults between 18 and 64 years of age for critical accident plans, or up to 54 for critical illness recovery options.
Applicants may need to answer medical questions or undergo underwriting depending on the plan and chosen benefit amount.
For Specialty Drug Program coverage, eligibility is usually tied to participation in an employer-sponsored group health plan; for individual products, residency and a valid provincial health card are often required.
Good to know
It is important to assess waiting periods, stability clauses for pre-existing conditions, and applicable exclusions (such as for self-inflicted injuries or non-medically necessary care). Coverage for care received outside Canada, or while traveling, varies and should be verified before departure, as these policies focus mainly on coverage within Canada or specific contractual events.
Does Empire Life health insurance cover seniors?
Empire Life’s health insurance options for seniors are designed for individuals who are retiring or have recently lost their group insurance coverage. The main advantage of these solutions is the ability to convert group insurance into individual coverage—usually without having to provide new medical evidence. To benefit from this transformation, you must typically apply within a limited timeframe, most often within 60 days of the end of your group benefits.
After this transition, the following coverage options are generally available:
- CI Protect Plus: Provides a lump-sum payment if you are diagnosed with one of 25 specified critical illnesses (such as heart attack, stroke, cancer, or dementia). This money can be used for any purpose, such as treatment, home modifications, or covering living expenses during recovery.
- Medical Concierge Services: Included at no extra cost with the CI Protect Plus and Children Critical Illness Rider. This service offers access to remote second medical opinions, care navigation, and ongoing support throughout your diagnosis and treatment journey.
- Specialty Drug Program: Offered as part of Empire Life’s group health plans, this program covers high-cost prescription medications for complex health conditions. Patient support services include education, medication adherence coaching, and cost management. If you transition from group to individual coverage, the management of expensive ongoing medications is supported through this program.
Depending on the chosen formula, you may also have access to:
- Basic health coverage: Limited to coverage for critical illness and specialty drugs, intended to help with significant health events rather than routine care.
- Additional assistance for treatment navigation: Remote access to navigate complex healthcare situations, find specialists, and manage care plans.
- Home support and wellness: Guidance and resources to help adapt your home or care plan after a critical illness diagnosis, depending on the available services.
Application for Individual Coverage After a Group Plan
To access these options after ending your group plan, it is essential to submit your application for individual coverage within 60 days. The specific program name, CI Protect Plus, guarantees conversion from group to individual without a need for medical underwriting during this period. For specific coverage and exclusions, always consult the official Empire Life documents or contact their support service.
How does reimbursement work with Empire Life?
| Functionality | Availability | Expert Opinion |
|---|---|---|
| Online claim submission | ❌ | You cannot submit invoices online, so expect to handle claims by mail or with the pharmacy directly. |
| Mobile application | ❌ | No app is available, so account management and claims must be done using traditional or web methods. |
| Member account for claim tracking | ❌ | There is no dedicated online portal for tracking claim status or reimbursement history in real time. |
| Reimbursement estimator | ❌ | Users cannot simulate or estimate reimbursement amounts independently; all inquiries must go to support. |
| Reimbursement time frame | Not specified | Reimbursement timeframe is not defined, so processing speed may vary and could require follow-up. |
| Add/remove members without fees | ❌ | Adding or removing dependents likely involves administrative steps and could potentially incur charges. |
| Phone assistance with a healthcare professional | ❌ | No access provided for medical advice by phone; users must rely on their network or basic customer service. |
| Second medical opinion | ✅ | Access to remote medical second opinion services is included, offering valuable guidance for serious diagnoses. |
| 24/7 travel assistance | ❌ | No continuous travel assistance is offered, so emergency help abroad must be arranged independently. |
Customer Reviews of Empire Life Health Insurance
Based on available online feedback, here is a summary of customer opinions about Empire Life:
✅ A number of customers have mentioned satisfaction with the medical concierge services, appreciating the support and information provided during critical illness journeys.
✅ Some policyholders highlight that the specialty drug program simplifies access to high-cost medications and provides useful coaching and education.
❌ Several clients complain about the lack of online claim tracking, making it difficult to follow up on reimbursement requests.
❌ A portion of users find the communication and clarity of coverage exclusions insufficient, leading to disappointment during the claim process.
Here is the type of review left online:
- "The care navigation team at Empire Life was very supportive when my spouse was diagnosed and helped us understand treatment options.", S. Tanaka, February 14, 2024, TrustPilot.
- "I found it difficult to get reimbursed for a medication because there is no online portal and the process was unclear.", M. Leblanc, April 8, 2024, TrustPilot.
How to contact Empire Life health insurance?
| Reason for contact | Contact Empire Life |
|---|---|
| 🧾 For a health insurance quote | Call 1-877-548-1881, Monday to Friday, 8am–8pm EST; select options for individual health insurance if prompted. |
| 🧾 For an insurance certificate | Email info@empire.ca or call 1-877-548-1881, Mon–Fri 8am–8pm EST; request “insurance certificate” in your message or call. |
| 🩺 For medical assistance | Call 1-877-373-9872 or 514-522-8000, Mon–Fri 8am–8pm EST; for Medical Concierge Services; email advocate@medextra.com. |
| 🔍 For claim or reimbursement tracking | Call 1-877-548-1881, Monday to Friday, 8am–8pm EST; select claims menu or specify “reimbursement follow-up” to agent. |
FAQ
Who can purchase Empire Life health insurance?
You can subscribe to Empire Life health insurance directly through their official website, but it is always recommended to compare online the different available offers using our health insurance comparison tool (https://hellosafe.ca/en/health-insurance).
Are there age requirements with Empire Life?
Empire Life does not publicly specify minimum or maximum age restrictions in their official materials. Some policies, such as those including critical illness or specialty drug coverage, may have age-based criteria or limitations, so it is important to review each plan’s terms or confirm directly with Empire Life.
Can I add or remove insured members at Empire Life?
You may add dependents, such as a spouse or children, to an Empire Life insurance policy at the time of application or during allowed policy update windows; contact Empire Life to find out the specific terms and procedures for your situation.
Does Empire Life offer standard health insurance for hospital, dental, or vision care?
Empire Life’s core offering is critical illness and specialty drug coverage, and official brochures do not mention standard health insurance for hospital, dental, or vision expenses. For broader health coverage, you may need to consider additional insurers.
Can Empire Life provide coverage for pre-existing conditions?
There is no public information regarding detailed exclusions for pre-existing conditions in the available Empire Life brochures. As is common with Canadian health insurers, most plans either limit or exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, so it’s advised to confirm directly with Empire Life about your eligibility.
What are the steps for making a claim with Empire Life?
For specialty drug reimbursement, claims are managed through specific pharmacy partners outlined by Empire Life. For other types of coverage under critical illness policies, claim procedures are not detailed in their brochures, so contacting Empire Life’s customer support is recommended for up-to-date instructions.
Who can purchase Empire Life health insurance?
You can subscribe to Empire Life health insurance directly through their official website, but it is always recommended to compare online the different available offers using our health insurance comparison tool (https://hellosafe.ca/en/health-insurance).
Are there age requirements with Empire Life?
Empire Life does not publicly specify minimum or maximum age restrictions in their official materials. Some policies, such as those including critical illness or specialty drug coverage, may have age-based criteria or limitations, so it is important to review each plan’s terms or confirm directly with Empire Life.
Can I add or remove insured members at Empire Life?
You may add dependents, such as a spouse or children, to an Empire Life insurance policy at the time of application or during allowed policy update windows; contact Empire Life to find out the specific terms and procedures for your situation.
Does Empire Life offer standard health insurance for hospital, dental, or vision care?
Empire Life’s core offering is critical illness and specialty drug coverage, and official brochures do not mention standard health insurance for hospital, dental, or vision expenses. For broader health coverage, you may need to consider additional insurers.
Can Empire Life provide coverage for pre-existing conditions?
There is no public information regarding detailed exclusions for pre-existing conditions in the available Empire Life brochures. As is common with Canadian health insurers, most plans either limit or exclude coverage for pre-existing conditions, so it’s advised to confirm directly with Empire Life about your eligibility.
What are the steps for making a claim with Empire Life?
For specialty drug reimbursement, claims are managed through specific pharmacy partners outlined by Empire Life. For other types of coverage under critical illness policies, claim procedures are not detailed in their brochures, so contacting Empire Life’s customer support is recommended for up-to-date instructions.
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