Can I get healthcare services after I make a refugee claim in Canada?
If you're found eligible to make a refugee claim, you have legal status in Canada as a “refugee claimant.” You will get an identity document called a Refugee Protection Claimant Document.
Your Refugee Protection Claimant Document allows you to get basic healthcare services free of charge through the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP). IFHP coverage is similar to the Ontario Health Insurance Plan (OHIP).
To get healthcare through the IFHP, you must show your Refugee Protection Claimant Document to doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers.
Keep your Refugee Protection Claimant Document in a safe place. It's a good idea to make copies because it's difficult to get another one.
If your refugee claim is withdrawn or , your healthcare coverage will be cancelled.
If you’re found not eligible to make a refugee claim
If you're found not eligible to make a refugee claim in Canada but you're told that you can apply for a Pre-Removal Risk Assessment (PRRA), you can get still healthcare through the IFHP. You will get a document called Notification Regarding a to show to doctors, nurses, and other healthcare providers.
If you can't apply for a PRRA and need medical treatment, you will have to:
- find a healthcare facility that treats uninsured patients, or
- pay for the health care you need until you leave Canada.
In situations involving children or vulnerable people, it may be possible to get discretionary IFHP.
If your claim is rejected
If your:
- refugee claim is rejected
- PRRA is refused
- appeal the negative decision and your appeal is denied
your IFHP coverage will continue until there is an enforceable against you and you're ordered to leave Canada.
If your claim is accepted
If your refugee claim or PRRA is accepted, you have status in Canada and you can apply for a health card under the Ontario Health Insurance Program (OHIP). You should apply right away because your IFHP coverage expires 90 days after your claim is accepted.
