People now have the option of French language characters, such as accents (e.g., ç, è, é, ê, ë), on Ontario health cards. It's part of the province’s plan to make French characters available on all Ontario government identification.
“Franco-Ontarians can now have their name correctly identified on their health card in addition to their driver’s licence and photo card,” said Sylvia Jones, Minister of Health, in a news release.
Ontarians with French names may now visit a ServiceOntario location with the required supporting identification documents to get a free replacement health card.
In September 2020, Ontario added French language characters to Ontario driver’s licence cards and Ontario Photo Cards.
People should check their health card in case it has expired. It can be renewed online at Ontario.ca/Renew or book an in-person meeting at Ontario.ca/Appointment. If you experience difficulties renewing, contact ServiceOntario at 1-866-532-3161.
To avoid missing renewal dates for health cards and other important IDs or permits, free reminders are available by email, text or phone call by subscribing at Ontario.ca/Reminders or calling 1-800-267-8097.
