Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has announced important changes to the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) that will come into effect on May 1, 2026. These changes will affect how some medical services and medications are paid for by IFHP beneficiaries.

Because health coverage in Canada can already be confusing for many newcomers, this update raises a lot of questions. In this article, we explain in simple language what is changing, who is affected, and what you should do to prepare.

What is IFHP?

The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) is a temporary federal health coverage program for refugees, asylum seekers, and certain other groups of newcomers to Canada. It provides basic medical coverage and some supplemental health benefits for people who are not yet eligible for provincial health insurance such as OHIP in Ontario.

IFHP is usually used as a “bridge” until a person becomes eligible for provincial coverage.

What is changing on May 1, 2026?

Starting May 1, 2026, IFHP will introduce co-payments for some services.

A co-payment means that the cost of a service is shared between the patient and the government. The Government of Canada will still pay part of the cost, but the patient will now pay a portion directly to the health-care provider.

Here are the main changes:

1. Prescription medications

IFHP beneficiaries will pay $4 for each eligible prescription filled or refilled.

2. Other supplemental health services and products

For services such as some dental care, vision care, medical devices, and other supplemental benefits, beneficiaries will pay 30% of the cost. IFHP will cover the remaining part.

What is NOT changing?

It is very important to understand that:

• Doctor visits and hospital care will remain fully covered and free of charge under IFHP.

• Immigration medical exams and pre-departure medical services will also remain fully covered.

• These new co-payments only apply to services received on or after May 1, 2026. Anything received before that date is not affected.

Does this affect OHIP?

No. These changes do NOT apply to OHIP or any other provincial health insurance plans.

If you already have OHIP, your coverage is not affected by these changes. This update applies only to people who are covered under IFHP.

This is a very important point, because many newcomers may worry that “health care in Canada is becoming paid.” That is not true. This change only affects the temporary federal IFHP program.

What should IFHP clients do before receiving services?

Because some services will now require co-payment, IFHP beneficiaries should:

• Always ask the clinic, pharmacy, or health-care provider how much they will need to pay before receiving a service

• Remember that IFHP has coverage limits, and any amount above those limits is still paid by the patient

• Keep track of their documents and know whether they are covered by IFHP or already by OHIP

Why this change may feel stressful

For many newcomers and refugees, even small medical costs can be stressful. The Canadian health system is complex, and it is not always easy to understand:

• What program you are covered by

• What services are free

• What services are partially covered

• What you may need to pay yourself

That is why clear information and proper guidance are so important.

How CUIAS Immigrant Services can help

At CUIAS Immigrant Services, we work every day with newcomers, refugees, and families who are navigating the Canadian system.

We can help you:

• Understand whether you are covered by IFHP or OHIP

• Understand what these changes mean for your personal situation

• Prepare for the transition from IFHP to provincial health insurance

• Navigate documents, statuses, and access to services

• Find the right information and avoid costly mistakes or misunderstandings

If you are not sure:

• What coverage you currently have

• Whether these changes apply to you

• How much you might need to pay in the future

• Or what your next steps should be We encourage you to contact CUIAS Immigrant Services. Our team is here to support you, explain everything in clear language, and help you make informed decisions for yourself and your family.

You are not alone in this process — and you do not have to figure it out by yourself.