Federal Health Program Introduces Co-Payments for Refugees and Asylum Seekers

Effective May 1, 2026, Canada's Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) will implement co-payments for certain supplemental health services. This change, announced in Budget 2025, aims to ensure the program's long-term sustainability while maintaining access to essential care for eligible beneficiaries as they transition to provincial or territorial health systems.

Key Takeaways

• Co-payments will be introduced for supplemental health products and services.

• Prescription medications will have a $4 co-payment per fill or refill.

• Other supplemental services, including dental and vision care, will require a 30% co-payment.

• Basic health care, such as doctor visits and hospital care, remains fully covered.

Changes to IFHP Coverage

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is introducing co-payments for supplemental health products and services under the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP). This initiative, stemming from Budget 2025, is designed to manage the program's growing demand and ensure its continued viability for both current and future eligible beneficiaries. The IFHP provides temporary, essential health coverage until individuals can access provincial or territorial healthcare.

Understanding Co-Payments

A co-payment is the portion of a healthcare cost that beneficiaries will pay directly to their provider. The IFHP will cover the remaining balance. Starting May 1, 2026, beneficiaries will be responsible for:

• A $4 co-payment for each eligible prescription medication, whether it's a new prescription or a refill.

• A 30% co-payment for all other eligible supplemental health products and services. This includes, but is not limited to, dental care, vision care, counselling services, and assistive devices.

Beneficiaries are advised to pay these amounts directly to their healthcare providers at the time of service. It is important to note that core health benefits, such as doctor visits and hospital care, will continue to be fully covered by the IFHP without any co-payment requirement.

Guidance for Beneficiaries

To navigate these changes smoothly, IFHP beneficiaries are encouraged to:

• Continue using the IFHP Provider Search tool to find registered healthcare providers.

• Inquire about potential co-payments with their healthcare provider before receiving care.

• Confirm the exact amount they will need to pay.

• Retain all receipts for any co-payments made.

An information toolkit has been made available to provide guidance and resources for beneficiaries, stakeholders, and service providers. Further details regarding IFHP coverage, co-payment fees, benefit grids, and billing information can be found on the Interim Federal Health Program website and through Medavie Blue Cross.

Sources

• Changes to the Interim Federal Health Program, Canada.ca.