Canada Introduces Healthcare Co-Payments for Refugees and Asylum Seekers
Refugees and asylum seekers in Canada will soon face new financial responsibilities for certain healthcare services and medications. The federal government has announced that starting May 1, 2026, eligible beneficiaries of the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) will be required to make co-payments for supplemental health products and services.
Details of the New Healthcare Cost Structure
According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the changes will require beneficiaries to pay $4 for each prescription medication obtained through the federal program. Additionally, they must cover 30% of the cost for various other health services, including:
- Dental care and vision care services
- Counselling and mental health support
- Assistive devices and medical equipment
- Other supplemental health products
The government emphasized that these co-payments will be paid directly to healthcare providers at the time of service. Beneficiaries are encouraged to ask about potential co-payments before receiving care, confirm the exact amounts they will need to pay, and keep receipts for all payments made.
What Remains Fully Covered
Despite these new financial requirements, several essential healthcare services will continue to be fully covered without any co-payments. These include:
- Doctor appointments and primary care consultations
- Hospital care and emergency medical services
- Basic medical examinations and diagnostic tests
The IFHP provides limited coverage for urgent and essential health services to refugees and asylum seekers during their transition period before they become eligible for provincial or territorial healthcare plans.
Government Rationale and Program Sustainability
The federal government has framed these changes as necessary measures to ensure the long-term viability of the refugee healthcare program. "Introducing co-payments will help keep supplemental health care accessible for eligible beneficiaries while responsibly managing growing demand," officials stated in their announcement.
They further explained that "this change supports the long-term sustainability of the IFHP so it can continue providing essential support to current and future beneficiaries." The policy adjustment was originally included in last year's federal budget as part of broader healthcare system reforms.
Program Background and Implementation Timeline
The Interim Federal Health Program serves as a temporary healthcare solution for refugees and asylum claimants during their initial settlement period in Canada. The program covers essential medical needs until individuals can transition to regular provincial healthcare coverage.
With the May 1 implementation date approaching, healthcare providers across Canada are preparing to implement the new co-payment system. Refugee support organizations are expected to provide guidance to affected individuals about navigating these changes and understanding their healthcare rights and responsibilities under the revised program structure.
