By VG Immigration Services Inc. | Last Updated: January 27, 2026
On January 27, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced a significant policy change to the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP): starting May 1, 2026, beneficiaries will be required to pay co-payments for supplemental health benefits, including prescription medications ($4 per prescription) and other services like dental care, vision care, physiotherapy, and mental health counseling (30% of costs).
This marks the first time in IFHP history that refugee claimants, protected persons, and other eligible individuals will face out-of-pocket costs for health services beyond basic care. While basic health benefits — including doctor visits and hospital care — will remain completely free, the introduction of co-payments represents a fundamental shift in Canada’s approach to refugee healthcare coverage and will impact thousands of vulnerable individuals across the country.
At VG Immigration Services Inc., we work closely with refugee claimants, protected persons, victims of human trafficking, and families navigating Canada’s asylum system. We understand the financial pressures facing newcomers, and this policy change raises urgent questions: How much will IFHP beneficiaries actually pay? Which services are affected? What remains free? And how can vulnerable families budget for these new costs while awaiting permanent residence?
This comprehensive guide explains everything IFHP beneficiaries need to know about the May 1, 2026 co-payment changes: what’s covered, what you’ll pay, step-by-step strategies to minimize costs, how to access care under the new system, and what these changes mean for your path to permanent residence and provincial health coverage.
Contact us if you have questions about IFHP coverage or need support navigating refugee claim processes, or book an appointment for personalized guidance.
What is the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)?
Purpose and Coverage Overview
The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) provides temporary healthcare coverage to individuals in Canada who are not yet eligible for provincial or territorial health insurance. Administered by Medavie Blue Cross on behalf of IRCC, IFHP ensures that refugees, asylum seekers, and other vulnerable populations can access essential medical services while their immigration status is being processed.
IFHP was created to:
✅ Protect public health by ensuring refugees/claimants receive necessary medical care
✅ Support humanitarian obligations under international refugee law
✅ Bridge the gap between arrival in Canada and provincial health coverage eligibility
✅ Facilitate integration by addressing health needs early
- Refugee claimants: From date of claim until decision (average 12-24 months)
- Protected persons: From refugee status approval until provincial health coverage begins (usually 3 months waiting period)
- Resettled refugees: From arrival until provincial coverage starts
- Victims of trafficking/domestic violence: While awaiting status resolution
Who is Eligible for IFHP?
Covered Groups (Before and After May 1, 2026)
IFHP eligibility is based on immigration status, not financial need. The following groups qualify for coverage:
1. Refugee Claimants (Asylum Seekers)
- Individuals who filed refugee protection claims in Canada at Port of Entry or inland
- Coverage starts upon claim submission; continues until final decision (including appeals)
- Proof: Acknowledgement of Claim and Notice to Return for Interview letter or Refugee Protection Claimant Document (RPCD)
2. Protected Persons
- Individuals granted refugee protection by Immigration and Refugee Board (IRB)
- Individuals granted protection through Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA)
- Coverage continues until provincial/territorial health insurance begins (typically 3-month waiting period after PR application submission)
- Proof: Positive IRB decision letter or PRRA approval
3. Resettled Refugees
- Government-Assisted Refugees (GARs) and Privately Sponsored Refugees (PSRs)
- Coverage from arrival in Canada until provincial coverage starts
- Proof: IRCC confirmation of arrival or IMM 1442 form
4. Victims of Human Trafficking
- Individuals identified as trafficking victims with Temporary Resident Permits (TRPs) under trafficking provisions
- Proof: TRP with trafficking conditions
5. Immigration Detainees
- Individuals detained under Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA)
- Coverage during detention period
- Proof: CBSA detention documentation
6. Rejected Refugee Claimants (Limited Coverage)
- Individuals with negative IRB decisions who have not yet left Canada or whose removal orders are stayed
- Coverage continues until removal order date or departure
- Proof: IRB negative decision + valid immigration status
What Was Covered Under IFHP Before May 1, 2026?
Pre-May 2026: Fully Free Healthcare
Before the co-payment policy change, IFHP provided comprehensive, no-cost healthcare for all eligible beneficiaries:
Basic Health Coverage (Free):
- Doctor and nurse practitioner visits
- Hospital care (inpatient and emergency)
- Laboratory tests and diagnostic imaging (X-rays, ultrasounds, MRIs)
- Prenatal and maternity care
- Vaccinations and immunizations
- Mental health services (initial assessments)
Supplemental Health Benefits (Free):
- Prescription medications (listed on provincial formularies)
- Urgent dental care (pain relief, infections, trauma)
- Vision care (eye exams, glasses for children and special medical needs)
- Mental health counseling (psychotherapy, trauma counseling)
- Physiotherapy (accident recovery, chronic pain management)
- Occupational therapy (functional rehabilitation)
- Speech-language therapy (communication disorders, stroke recovery)
- Assistive devices (prosthetics, wheelchairs, mobility aids, hearing aids)
- Home care and long-term care (for eligible medical conditions)
- Medical supplies and equipment (diabetic supplies, wound care, incontinence products)
Immigration Medical Examination (Free):
No Co-Payments, No Deductibles, No Out-of-Pocket Costs — Services billed directly to IFHP by registered providers.
MAJOR CHANGE: What’s New Starting May 1, 2026?
Co-Payment Structure Explained
Effective May 1, 2026, IFHP introduces a cost-sharing model where beneficiaries pay a portion of costs for supplemental health services, while the government continues covering the remainder.
Definition of Co-Payment:
“A co-payment (or co-pay) is the portion of the cost that you will pay directly to your IFHP-registered health-care provider when receiving supplemental services and products that are eligible under the IFHP. The remaining portion of the cost is covered by the IFHP, meaning the cost will be shared between you and the Government of Canada.”
What You’ll Pay: The New Co-Payment Rates
1. Prescription Medications: $4 Per Prescription
- You pay: $4 CAD for each prescription filled or refilled
- IFHP pays: Remaining cost of medication (can be hundreds of dollars for specialty drugs)
- When: Every time you fill or refill a prescription at pharmacy
Example:
- Doctor prescribes antibiotic for infection (retail cost: $45)
- You pay: $4
- IFHP pays: $41
- Pharmacy bills IFHP directly for $41; you pay $4 cash/debit/credit at pickup
2. All Other Supplemental Health Benefits: 30% of Cost
- You pay: 30% of eligible service/product cost
- IFHP pays: Remaining 70%
- Applies to:
- Urgent dental care (fillings, extractions, root canals)
- Vision care (eye exams, glasses)
- Mental health counseling sessions
- Physiotherapy treatments
- Occupational therapy sessions
- Speech-language therapy
- Assistive devices (wheelchairs, hearing aids, prosthetics)
- Home care and long-term care services
- Medical supplies and equipment (diabetic supplies, wound care)
Examples:
| Service/Product | Total Cost | You Pay (30%) | IFHP Pays (70%) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urgent dental extraction | $250 | $75 | $175 |
| Mental health counseling session | $150 | $45 | $105 |
| Physiotherapy treatment | $80 | $24 | $56 |
| Vision exam + glasses | $300 | $90 | $210 |
| Wheelchair | $1,200 | $360 | $840 |
| Hearing aids (pair) | $2,500 | $750 | $1,750 |
What Remains Completely Free (No Co-Payments)?
Basic Health Coverage: Still 100% Covered
Critical Clarification: The May 1, 2026 co-payment policy only applies to supplemental benefits. Basic health coverage remains entirely free with no co-payments required.
Services That Remain Free (No Co-Payments):
✅ Doctor visits (family physicians, specialists, walk-in clinics)
✅ Hospital care (emergency department, inpatient admission, surgery, ICU)
✅ Prenatal and maternity care (pregnancy checkups, delivery, postpartum care)
✅ Vaccinations and immunizations (childhood vaccines, flu shots, COVID-19 vaccines)
✅ Laboratory tests (blood work, urine tests, cultures)
✅ Diagnostic imaging (X-rays, ultrasounds, CT scans, MRIs ordered by doctors)
✅ Mental health initial assessments (psychiatric evaluations, crisis intervention)
How This Works:
- Present your IFHP proof of eligibility document at doctor’s office or hospital
- Provider verifies coverage with Medavie Blue Cross
- Services billed directly to IFHP; you pay $0
Real-World Impact: What Will Beneficiaries Actually Pay?
Common Scenarios and Cost Calculations
Scenario 1: Refugee Claimant Family with Young Children
Profile:
- Family of 4 (2 adults, 2 children ages 3 and 6)
- Father has chronic back pain; mother has anxiety/depression
- 3-year-old has asthma; 6-year-old needs glasses
Monthly Healthcare Needs:
| Service | Frequency | Total Cost | You Pay (30%) | IFHP Pays |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Asthma inhaler prescription | 1x/month | $60 | $4 | $56 |
| Anxiety medication (mother) | 1x/month | $45 | $4 | $41 |
| Pain medication (father) | 1x/month | $30 | $4 | $26 |
| Physiotherapy for back pain | 2 sessions/month | $160 ($80/session) | $48 ($24/session) | $112 |
| Mental health counseling | 2 sessions/month | $300 ($150/session) | $90 ($45/session) | $210 |
| Glasses for 6-year-old | Once (annual) | $200 | $60 | $140 |
Total Monthly Out-of-Pocket: $4 + $4 + $4 + $48 + $90 = $150/month + $60 annual (glasses)
Annual Out-of-Pocket: $150 × 12 + $60 = $1,860/year
Pre-May 2026: $0
Scenario 2: Single Protected Person with Diabetes
Profile:
- 45-year-old protected person awaiting PR approval
- Type 2 diabetes managed with medication, testing supplies, regular checkups
- Occasional urgent dental needs
Monthly Healthcare Needs:
| Service | Frequency | Total Cost | You Pay | IFHP Pays |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Diabetes medication | 1x/month | $85 | $4 | $81 |
| Blood glucose test strips | 1 box/month | $50 | $15 (30%) | $35 |
| Doctor visits (basic) | 1x/month | $0 (free) | $0 | $0 (free) |
| Urgent dental filling | Once (annual) | $300 | $90 (30%) | $210 |
Total Monthly Out-of-Pocket: $4 + $15 = $19/month + $90 annual (dental)
Annual Out-of-Pocket: $19 × 12 + $90 = $318/year
Pre-May 2026: $0
Scenario 3: Resettled Refugee with Trauma and Mobility Needs
Profile:
- 38-year-old resettled refugee from conflict zone
- PTSD requiring ongoing trauma counseling
- Lost leg due to landmine; requires prosthetic maintenance and physiotherapy
Monthly Healthcare Needs:
| Service | Frequency | Total Cost | You Pay (30%) | IFHP Pays |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Trauma counseling | 4 sessions/month | $600 ($150/session) | $180 ($45/session) | $420 |
| Physiotherapy (mobility) | 4 sessions/month | $320 ($80/session) | $96 ($24/session) | $224 |
| Prosthetic maintenance | Quarterly | $500/quarter | $150 (30%) | $350 |
| Anti-anxiety medication | 1x/month | $50 | $4 | $46 |
Total Monthly Out-of-Pocket: $180 + $96 + $4 = $280/month + $150/quarter (prosthetic)
Annual Out-of-Pocket: $280 × 12 + ($150 × 4) = $3,960/year
Pre-May 2026: $0
How to Access IFHP Services Starting May 1, 2026
Step-by-Step Process for Beneficiaries
Step 1: Register on Medavie Blue Cross Secure Portal
- Website: https://ifhp.medaviebc.ca/
- Create account using your IFHP eligibility document (Acknowledgement of Claim letter, RPCD, or IFHP Certificate)
- Benefits:
- Verify coverage status in real-time
- Find IFHP-registered providers in your area
- Track claims and payment history
- Download IFHP ID card
Step 2: Find an IFHP-Registered Healthcare Provider
- Use Provider Search Tool: https://ifhp.medaviebc.ca/search-provider/
- Search by:
- Service type (doctors, dentists, pharmacies, physiotherapists, etc.)
- Location (city, postal code)
- Language preferences
- Important: Only IFHP-registered providers can bill IFHP and accept co-payments under the new system
Step 3: Bring Proof of IFHP Eligibility to Every Appointment
Accepted Documents:
- IFHP Certificate (if issued by IRCC)
- Acknowledgement of Claim and Notice to Return for Interview letter
- Refugee Protection Claimant Document (RPCD)
- Positive IRB decision letter (protected persons)
- IMM 1442 (resettled refugees)
Pro Tip: Take photo of document on phone as backup; some providers accept digital proof.
Step 4: Ask Provider About Costs BEFORE Receiving Service
Critical Step: Before receiving supplemental services/products, confirm:
- Is this service covered by IFHP?
- What is the total cost?
- How much is my 30% co-payment (or $4 for prescriptions)?
- Can I afford this co-payment today?
Example Questions:
- “I need physiotherapy for back pain. How much will my co-payment be per session?”
- “This prescription — will I pay $4, or is it not covered by IFHP?”
- “My child needs glasses. What’s the total cost, and what’s my 30% share?”
Step 5: Pay Your Co-Payment Directly to Provider
- When: At time of service (appointments, pharmacy pickup)
- How: Cash, debit, credit card (check with provider)
- Who: Pay directly to healthcare provider, NOT to Medavie Blue Cross or IRCC
- Always get receipt: Keep for personal records and potential tax purposes
Step 6: Provider Bills IFHP for Remaining Cost
- Provider submits claim to Medavie Blue Cross for IFHP’s 70% share (or medication cost minus $4)
- You do NOT submit claims — provider handles all IFHP billing
- IFHP reimburses provider directly within 10-15 business days
Strategies to Minimize Co-Payment Costs
Practical Tips for IFHP Beneficiaries
1. Prioritize Free Basic Services Over Supplemental
- Use free doctor visits for health concerns before considering supplemental services
- Example: For back pain, see doctor first (free) for assessment and exercises; only pursue paid physiotherapy if doctor recommends
2. Ask Doctors for Generic Medications
- Generic drugs cost significantly less than brand-name; your $4 co-payment stays same, but overall cost to system lower
- Example: Generic atorvastatin (cholesterol drug) = $15 vs. brand Lipitor = $85; you pay $4 either way
3. Bundle Services When Possible
- Vision care: Get eye exam + glasses same visit to minimize multiple 30% co-payments
- Dental: Address multiple issues in one appointment if clinically appropriate
4. Explore Community Health Centers and Free Clinics
- Some Community Health Centres (CHCs) and refugee health clinics may offer certain services (counseling, health education) free or subsidized
- Examples:
- Toronto: Access Alliance Multicultural Health and Community Services
- Vancouver: Mosaic Refugee Health Clinic
- Montreal: PRAIDA (Programme régional d’accueil et d’intégration des demandeurs d’asile)
5. Budget for Co-Payments Monthly
Realistic Monthly Budget for Average IFHP Beneficiary:
- Prescriptions: $4-$12/month (1-3 medications)
- Counseling/therapy: $45-$90/month (1-2 sessions)
- Other supplemental: $20-$50/month (occasional dental, vision, physio)
- Total: $70-$150/month average
Set aside this amount from income support (RAP for resettled refugees, social assistance for claimants).
6. Delay Non-Urgent Supplemental Services Until Provincial Coverage Starts
- If you’re a protected person awaiting PR approval and will get provincial health coverage soon (within 3-6 months), consider delaying:
- Non-urgent dental work
- Glasses (if current pair functional)
- Elective physiotherapy
- Provincial coverage may have different cost structures (often lower co-pays or free with social assistance)
7. Apply for Provincial Social Assistance (Better Drug Coverage)
- In some provinces, social assistance recipients get enhanced drug coverage with lower/no co-pays
- Ontario: Ontario Works/ODSP recipients get prescription drugs through Ontario Drug Benefit (ODB) with $2 co-pay vs. IFHP’s $4
- BC: Income Assistance recipients get Fair PharmaCare coverage (often lower co-pays)
Contact us for guidance on navigating social assistance applications and provincial health coverage transitions.
What Costs Are NOT Covered by IFHP (Even Before May 1)?
Exclusions and Limitations
IFHP has always had limits and exclusions; co-payments are new, but certain costs were never covered:
Services/Products NOT Covered by IFHP:
❌ Cosmetic procedures (teeth whitening, cosmetic dentistry, elective plastic surgery)
❌ Non-urgent dental care (routine cleanings, non-essential fillings; only urgent/pain relief covered)
❌ Over-the-counter medications (must have prescription to be covered)
❌ Experimental treatments (not approved by Health Canada)
❌ Services available under other insurance (if you have private insurance, IFHP is “payer of last resort”)
❌ Travel outside Canada (IFHP only covers services received in Canada)
❌ Costs exceeding maximum dollar amounts (IFHP has benefit limits for certain devices/services)
Example Benefit Limits:
- Hearing aids: Maximum $2,500 per ear (if total cost is $3,000, you pay $500 even before co-payments)
- Wheelchairs: Maximum $5,000 (if cost is $7,000, you pay $2,000)
After May 1, 2026: You’ll pay both your 30% co-payment on eligible amount plus any amount exceeding IFHP’s maximum limit.
Example:
- Hearing aids cost $3,000/ear
- IFHP maximum: $2,500/ear
- You pay: 30% of $2,500 = $750 (co-payment) + $500 (excess over limit) = $1,250 per ear
- IFHP pays: $1,750/ear
Timeline: When Do Co-Payments Start and End?
Critical Dates
January 27, 2026: IRCC announces co-payment policy; beneficiaries notified via email.
May 1, 2026: Co-payments take effect for all supplemental services/products received on or after this date.
Important Clarifications:
✅ Services before May 1, 2026: Completely free (no co-payments for appointments, prescriptions, etc. received before May 1)
✅ Services on/after May 1, 2026: Co-payments apply ($4 prescriptions, 30% supplemental)
Example:
- April 30, 2026 prescription refill: $0 co-payment
- May 1, 2026 prescription refill: $4 co-payment
When Do Co-Payments End?
Co-payments continue until IFHP coverage ends, which occurs when:
- You become eligible for provincial/territorial health insurance (typically 3 months after PR application or arrival as resettled refugee)
- Your refugee claim is withdrawn or abandoned
- Your removal order becomes enforceable (rejected claimants)
- You leave Canada permanently
Protected Persons Awaiting PR: You’ll pay co-payments for 3-6 months (IFHP coverage period) before transitioning to provincial health insurance.
Transitioning from IFHP to Provincial Health Coverage
How to Minimize Total Healthcare Costs
Step 1: Apply for Provincial Health Insurance ASAP After PR Approval
| Province | Waiting Period After PR | How to Apply |
|---|---|---|
| Ontario (OHIP) | 3 months | ServiceOntario; apply within 3 months of arrival/PR approval |
| British Columbia (MSP) | 3 months | Health Insurance BC; apply immediately upon PR |
| Alberta (AHCIP) | 3 months | AHS; register within 3 months |
| Quebec (RAMQ) | None (immediate if PR) | RAMQ office; apply immediately upon PR |
| Manitoba (MHSC) | 3 months | Manitoba Health; apply upon arrival/PR |
| Saskatchewan | 3 months | eHealth Saskatchewan |
| Nova Scotia (MSI) | None (immediate if PR) | MSI; apply immediately |
During Waiting Period: IFHP continues covering you (with co-payments after May 1, 2026) until provincial coverage begins.
Step 2: Understand Provincial Coverage Differences
What Provincial Health Covers (Typically):
✅ Doctor visits (free)
✅ Hospital care (free)
✅ Diagnostic tests (free)
✅ Maternity care (free)
What Provincial Health Usually Does NOT Cover:
❌ Prescription drugs (except for children, seniors, social assistance recipients)
❌ Dental care (except children in some provinces, emergencies)
❌ Vision care (except children in some provinces)
❌ Physiotherapy, counseling, assistive devices (unless social assistance/private insurance)
Implication: Once on provincial coverage, you’ll need to:
- Pay out-of-pocket for prescriptions (unless enrolled in provincial drug program)
- Buy private insurance or rely on employer coverage for dental/vision/therapy
- Apply for social assistance if low-income (provides drug coverage, dental, vision)
Step 3: Bridge Gap with Social Assistance or Private Insurance
Option A: Social Assistance (Low-Income Families)
- Ontario Works (OW) / Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP): Covers prescriptions ($2 co-pay), urgent dental, vision
- BC Income Assistance: Fair PharmaCare coverage (income-based co-pays)
- Quebec Social Assistance: RAMQ prescription drug insurance (monthly premium ~$80-100 + co-pays)
Option B: Private Insurance (If Employed)
- Many employers offer health benefits (drug, dental, vision coverage)
- Individual plans: $50-$150/month for single; $150-$300/month for family
Contact us for guidance on transitioning from IFHP to provincial coverage and minimizing coverage gaps.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Why is IRCC introducing co-payments now?
Official Reason: IRCC has not published detailed rationale, but policy change likely reflects:
- Fiscal pressures: IFHP costs rising (more refugee claimants, longer processing times)
- Political pressures: Public concerns about immigration costs and system sustainability
- Alignment with provincial models: Most provincial drug/supplemental coverage includes co-payments for low-income residents
Context: Canada processes 30,000-50,000 refugee claims annually; average IFHP coverage lasts 18-24 months/claimant. Total program costs exceed $100 million/year.
Q2: Can I refuse to pay co-payments and still get services?
No. Starting May 1, 2026, providers can refuse service if you cannot pay the required co-payment.
Exception: Emergency/life-threatening care at hospitals cannot be refused based on inability to pay (hospital will bill IFHP; may pursue collection for your co-payment share afterward).
Q3: What if I can’t afford the 30% co-payment for expensive assistive devices?
Options:
- Ask provider about payment plans: Some providers may allow you to pay 30% co-payment in installments
- Seek charitable support: Some refugee support organizations, churches, or community groups may assist with one-time medical costs
- Delay purchase: If not urgent, wait until provincial coverage begins (may have different subsidy programs)
- Apply for provincial assistive device programs: Many provinces have separate funding programs (e.g., Ontario’s Assistive Devices Program) that may cover portion once you’re PR
Contact us for referrals to refugee financial support organizations.
Q4: Do I pay co-payments for my children’s services too?
Yes. Co-payments apply to all IFHP beneficiaries, including children.
Example: If your 5-year-old needs glasses ($200 total cost), you pay 30% = $60 co-payment.
Q5: Can I use private insurance to cover IFHP co-payments?
Unlikely. IFHP is “payer of last resort” — if you have private insurance, you must claim through that first; IFHP doesn’t coordinate with other plans.
However, if private insurance covers only portion of cost, IFHP may cover remainder (minus your co-payment).
Q6: What happens if I receive services before May 1 but bill is processed after May 1?
No co-payment. IRCC clarified: co-payments apply only to services/products received on or after May 1, 2026, not billing dates.
Example: You fill prescription on April 28, 2026; pharmacy bills IFHP on May 3, 2026 → No co-payment.
Q7: Will co-payment rates increase in future?
Unknown. IRCC has not announced indexation or automatic increases, but policy could change based on future government decisions.
What This Means for Your Immigration Journey
Long-Term Implications
1. Increased Financial Pressure on Vulnerable Populations
- Refugee claimants already face financial hardship (limited work authorization, low-wage jobs, language barriers)
- Additional $70-$150/month healthcare costs may force difficult choices between health, food, rent
2. Potential Delays in Seeking Healthcare
- Some beneficiaries may avoid or delay necessary supplemental care (counseling, physiotherapy, dental) due to cost
- Could lead to worsening health outcomes, emergency care needs (more expensive to system)
3. Accelerated Push for Provincial Coverage and PR
- Stronger incentive for protected persons to complete PR applications quickly (transition to provincial coverage)
- Increased demand for expedited processing and status regularization
4. Need for Financial Planning and Support
- Refugee support organizations, settlement agencies, and legal representatives (like VG Immigration Services) will play critical role in helping clients budget and navigate new system
Contact us if you need support with refugee claim processing, PR applications, or transitioning to provincial healthcare coverage.
How VG Immigration Services Can Help
Our IFHP and Refugee Services
At VG Immigration Services Inc., we provide comprehensive support for IFHP beneficiaries and individuals navigating Canada’s refugee and asylum systems:
✅ Refugee Claim Assistance: Basis of Claim (BOC) form preparation, document gathering, IRB hearing prep
✅ Humanitarian & Compassionate (H&C) Applications: For individuals facing IFHP/health coverage gaps
✅ Protected Person PR Applications: Fast-track to permanent residence and provincial health coverage
✅ Provincial Health Coverage Guidance: Navigating OHIP, MSP, AHCIP applications and waiting periods
✅ Financial Support Referrals: Connecting clients with refugee support organizations, emergency funds, charitable assistance
✅ Family Sponsorship: Reuniting families separated by conflict/persecution
Book an appointment for personalized guidance on healthcare coverage and immigration status:
📧 immigration@vgis.ca
📞 +1 (416) 578-9269
Conclusion: Preparing for the May 1, 2026 Transition
The introduction of IFHP co-payments on May 1, 2026 represents a significant policy shift that will impact thousands of refugees, asylum seekers, and protected persons across Canada. While basic healthcare remains free and co-payment amounts are relatively modest compared to full private costs, the financial burden on already-vulnerable populations is real and requires proactive planning.
Key Takeaways:
✅ Doctor visits and hospital care remain 100% free — no co-payments for basic health services
✅ Prescription medications: $4 per fill — affordable for most, but adds up for multiple medications
✅ Supplemental services: 30% co-payment — can be significant for expensive services (dental, assistive devices, intensive therapy)
✅ Budget $70-$150/month for average IFHP beneficiary with typical health needs
✅ Register on Medavie portal and find IFHP providers before May 1 to ensure smooth transition
✅ Prioritize free services, ask about costs upfront, and plan for provincial health coverage transition
At VG Immigration Services Inc., we’re committed to helping you navigate not only Canada’s immigration system but also the practical realities of building your life in Canada — including accessing healthcare, understanding your rights, and planning for long-term stability.
Don’t wait — start preparing now for the May 1, 2026 IFHP changes.
👉 Contact us for comprehensive support
👉 Book an appointment to discuss your healthcare coverage and immigration status
📧 immigration@vgis.ca
📞 +1 (416) 578-9269
VG Immigration Services Inc. — Your trusted partner through every stage of your Canadian journey.