IFHP co-payments starting May 2026 will change how refugees in Canada pay for some health services. Many refugees already face money stress while adjusting to a new country. They may rely on IFHP for medication, counselling, or ongoing care. Even small fees can create worry, especially for families managing health needs on a tight budget. Knowing what is changing now can help avoid confusion later.
The Interim Federal Health Program, known as IFHP, provides temporary health coverage to refugees and certain other newcomers. It supports people until they qualify for provincial or territorial health insurance.
Coverage usually begins automatically based on immigration status. Most refugees do not need to apply. Health care providers must confirm eligibility each time a patient visits.
Beginning May 1, 2026, IFHP will require co-payments for some services. A co-payment means the patient pays part of the cost at the time of care, while the program covers the rest.
It is important to note what this change does and does not affect:
The new rules introduce two specific charges. Refugees will pay $4 each time they fill or refill an eligible prescription. For other approved supplemental services, they will pay 30 per cent of the total cost.
These payments go directly to the clinic or pharmacy. IFHP will continue to cover the remaining portion.
Some services covered by IFHP will now include co-payments. These may include:
Costs will vary depending on the service. Asking about fees before treatment can help avoid surprises.
Despite the changes, essential care will not cost anything. Refugees will continue to receive:
These services remain fully covered under IFHP after May 2026.
Refugees can protect themselves from unexpected costs by taking a few simple steps. Before receiving non-urgent care, it helps to:
Receipts are important if questions or billing issues arise later.
The government says demand for supplemental health services has increased. Officials believe small co-payments will help manage costs while keeping essential care free.
The stated goal is to ensure IFHP can continue supporting refugees now and in the future.
IFHP co-payments do not remove access to health care. They add limited costs for certain services. Refugees who understand the changes and ask clear questions can still receive care with fewer problems.
Yes. Doctor visits and hospital care will remain fully covered under IFHP.
Yes. The fee applies each time an eligible prescription is filled or refilled.
No. Emergency and hospital services remain free.
Clinics should explain costs in advance. Policies may vary, so it is best to ask before treatment.
In most cases, no. Coverage starts automatically based on immigration status.
Having an 'Identity Verified' badge or being 'Identity Verified' simply indicates that an individual has submitted information to complete our identity verification process or we have conducted internal verification using various authorized websites. While this process includes safeguards, it does not guarantee that the person is who they claim to be.
If you encounter any issues with this profile, please report them here. While all consultants who are verified have RCIC ID, we may not have the latest data in terms of their renewal/cancellation/discontinuation of their RCIC ID.
The "Verified Consultants" profiles are created using publicly available information, including data from the IRCC website, official consultant sites, other listing platforms, and social media. Immiperts.com is an independent platform, not affiliated with IRCC or any registered immigration consultants. To update, claim, or remove your profile, please contact us at [email protected].
╳
