How do I get an OHIP card for my baby born through surrogacy?

In Ontario, the process of obtaining a health card (OHIP card) for a baby born through surrogacy is unnecessarily burdensome. As an intended parent, it's your job to understand the steps so you can get health coverage for your child.

When does my baby born through surrogacy get their OHIP card?

While you will not be turned away from a hospital or doctor's office if your child needs care before they have received their OHIP number, your baby will not be receiving a temporary health card number in the hospital. The reason for this is simple: the hospital can only issue a health card if the baby's mother is the birth-giving parent. If they issued a card for you, the baby would have your surrogate's last name listed as theirs - among other things.

Can I apply for my baby's OHIP card online?

No - at least one parent must go in-person to a ServiceOntario location in order to apply for your child's health card. Even though any location can process this, you will likely have a smoother experience at large locations. Your baby does not need to be present with you in order to receive the temporary health card.

Can my surrogate go to ServiceOntario to apply on my behalf?

No - your surrogate cannot apply for your baby's health card, even if doing so on your behalf. At least one of the parents must go to ServiceOntario to apply.

What documentation do I need to bring?

There are several things you need to bring with you in order to apply for a OHIP card for your baby born via surrogacy.

1. Registration for Ontario Health Coverage (form 014-0265-82B)

2. Proof of address (like a drivers license)

3. A third document with your signature (like credit card that you’ve signed the back of, or your passport)

   And either...

4. The baby's birth certificate, or

5. A signed declaration from your surrogate

Your baby's birth registration and certificate can take up to eight weeks to process, which is why many people opt to use a signed declaration instead. The declaration does not need to be notarized. If you are looking for a template to use for your declaration, you can copy and amend the text below:

DATE

To whom it may concern,

I give authorization/consent for the Intended Parents of the child named below to be registered for health coverage under the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP). I also give consent for the intended parents to access the personal health information of the child named below.

Child’s Name:         

Sex:

Child’s Date of Birth:

Intended Parent 1:

Intended Parent 2:

Thanks,

________________________

PRINT SURROGATE NAME & SIGNATURE HERE