Changes to Canada’s Interim Federal Health Program – New Co‑Payments Effective May 1, 2026
Learn about the 2026 changes to Canada’s Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), including new co‑payment requirements for prescriptions and supplemental health services starting May 1, 2026. Clear guidance for beneficiaries and service providers.
Overview of the 2026 IFHP Changes
On January 27, 2026, the federal government announced important updates to the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP). These changes introduce co‑payments for certain supplemental health services and products, with the new rules taking effect on May 1, 2026.
The IFHP will continue to provide essential and urgent health coverage to eligible individuals—such as refugee claimants, protected persons, and resettled refugees—until they transition to provincial or territorial health insurance. However, the way some benefits are delivered and paid for will shift under the new structure.
What’s Changing on May 1, 2026
Beginning May 1, 2026, IFHP beneficiaries will be responsible for specific co‑payments when accessing supplemental health benefits. These include:
New Co‑Payment Requirements
• $4 co‑payment for each eligible prescription medication filled or refilled.
• 30% co‑payment for other eligible supplemental health products and services, including:
• Dental care
• Vision care
• Counselling
• Assistive devices
Beneficiaries will pay these amounts directly to their health care providers at the time of service.
What Stays the Same
Despite the new co‑payment structure, core medical services remain fully covered. This includes:
• Doctor visits
• Hospital care
• Other essential medical services
No co‑payments apply to these core benefits.
Why These Changes Are Being Introduced
The updated co‑payment model is designed to:
• Maintain long‑term sustainability of the IFHP
• Manage rising demand for supplemental health services
• Ensure continued access to essential care for current and future beneficiaries
The goal is to balance accessibility with responsible program management.
What Beneficiaries Should Do Before May 1, 2026
To prepare for the upcoming changes, beneficiaries are encouraged to:
• Confirm whether a co‑payment applies before receiving supplemental services
• Choose IFHP‑registered providers to ensure coverage
• Keep receipts for any co‑payments made
• Stay informed about which services fall under supplemental vs. core benefits
Guidance for Health Care Providers
Providers offering services to IFHP beneficiaries should:
• Verify eligibility before delivering care
• Inform patients of any applicable co‑payments
• Ensure billing processes align with the updated program rules
Who Is Covered Under the IFHP?
The IFHP provides temporary health coverage to:
• Refugee claimants
• Resettled refugees
• Protected persons
• Certain individuals in immigration detention
• Other eligible groups awaiting provincial or territorial health coverage
Coverage is typically activated automatically based on immigration status.
Final Thoughts
The 2026 updates to the Interim Federal Health Program represent a significant shift in how supplemental health benefits are delivered and funded. While core medical services remain fully covered, beneficiaries should be aware of the new co‑payment requirements and plan accordingly.
Staying informed and choosing registered providers will help ensure smooth access to care under the updated system.
Contact Us for Immigration Support
If you have questions about IFHP eligibility, coverage, or how these changes may affect your immigration process, our team is here to help.
JM Immigration Consultancy Inc.
Mississauga, Ontario
416-904-3815
info@onecanadavisa.com
www.onecanadavisa.com
We provide clear, client‑focused guidance to help you navigate Canada’s immigration and settlement programs with confidence.
