Canada Announces a New Change to IFHP Rules Effective May 2026

The federal government announced a major change to health coverage for refugees and related groups. Starting May 1, 2026, people covered under the Interim Federal Health Program will begin paying small fees for some health services. The government shared this update as part of its earlier budget plans and confirmed the details today.

The Interim Federal Health Program, often called IFHP, gives short-term health coverage to certain newcomers. It helps refugees and similar groups until they qualify for provincial or territorial health insurance. The program focuses on urgent and essential care during this transition period.

What the program covers today

The IFHP supports refugee claimants, resettled refugees, protected persons, and a few other eligible groups. In most cases, people do not need to apply for the program. Their immigration status decides their eligibility.

The program pays for basic medical care and some extra services. Health care providers across Canada deliver these services after confirming a patient’s eligibility at each visit.

What will change in May 2026

From May 1, 2026, the program will introduce co-payments for extra health services. Patients will still receive free doctor visits and hospital care. However, they will pay part of the cost for other services.

The new rules include two charges. Patients will pay $4 each time they fill or refill an eligible prescription. They will also pay 30 percent of the cost for other approved supplemental services.

The government says this step will help manage rising demand while keeping essential care free.

Which services will require payment

The new co-payments will apply to many common services. These include dental treatment, eye care, mental health counseling, and physical therapies. The rule will also affect medical supplies, assistive devices, home care, and long-term care.

Costs may vary depending on the service. Some items may cost little, while others may cost much more. Patients should ask about charges before receiving care.

How clinics and pharmacies will handle payments

Health care providers will check a patient’s eligibility at each visit. They will confirm whether the service qualifies under the program and whether a co-payment applies. Patients will pay their share directly at the clinic or pharmacy. The provider will then bill the remaining amount to the program administrator.

The government urges patients to ask questions before receiving non-urgent services to avoid confusion.

Advice for people using IFHP

Officials recommend that patients choose providers registered under the program. Patients should ask about costs in advance, confirm the amount they need to pay, and keep all receipts. Receipts help resolve billing problems or disputes later.

What providers must do

Health care providers must confirm coverage every time they see a patient. They must also ensure the patient has no other insurance and that the service appears on the approved list. Some services may need approval before treatment.

New coverage may take up to two business days to appear in the system. Providers can still offer care during this time but must wait before submitting bills.

Looking ahead

The May 2026 update adds new costs for supplemental care while protecting free access to doctors and hospitals. The government says the change will help keep the program running for years to come.