Refugees, refugee claimants, denied refugee claimants, and certain other newcomer groups in Canada are entitled to healthcare coverage under the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP). 

Individuals need to apply for IFHP coverage and require an IFHP certificate or Refugee Protection Claimant Document to access their coverage. IFHP coverage does not expire, but clients will need to re-apply for coverage if their documents list an expiry date prior to April 10, 2016. They can submit an application for confirmation of coverage and a new IFHP certificate if their original documents have been lost, stolen or destroyed (see Apply for Client IFHP Coverage section).

Health care providers need to register with IFHP to receive remuneration for services provided. Medavie Blue Cross is the insurance company through which IFHP claims are submitted and processed.

This online tool is designed for health care providers, administrators, and service providers involved in newcomer settlement.  It outlines the steps required to:

  1. Determine Client Eligibility
  2. Apply for Client IFHP Coverage
  3. Register as an IFHP Approved Provider
  4. Submit IFHP Billing Claims for remuneration

Click here to download a printer-friendly, PDF version of this tool.

Disclaimer: Every effort has been made to ensure accuracy for all information provided on this website as of August 2017. This information is very dynamic and may change at any time. For the most up-to-date information please visit the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada Website.

Other Resources: Provider-specific information can be found in the Blue Cross IFHP Information Handbook for Healthcare Professionals (www.bit.do/bluecrossifhphandbook, last updated on April 1, 2016). You can also contact Blue Cross at 1-888-614-1880 (8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. local time) or via email at cic_Inquiry@medavie.bluecross.ca. Clients who have questions about IFHP coverage can contact the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) Call Centre at 1-888-242-2100.