OTTAWA – The Immigration Department of Canada has disclosed that the government has spent over $275 million on health coverage for asylum seekers whose claims have been denied by the Immigration and Refugee Board of Canada over the past decade. This significant figure was made public in response to an order paper question from Alberta Conservative MP Burton Bailey, shedding light on the costs associated with refugee health care.

The released data specifically tracks the utilization of the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), which provides health care coverage for individuals claiming refugee status. The financial expenditures monitored span from the fiscal years 2016/17 to 2024/25. The government's report clarifies that the figures include all individuals with rejected asylum claims, including those who are currently undergoing the appeals process.

As part of broader fiscal measures aimed at reducing costs, the Canadian government announced a new policy set to take effect on May 1. This policy implements a 30 percent co-pay for program users who are seeking supplemental health services. This includes coverage for eye and vision care, in addition to a $4 fee that will be applied for filling eligible drug prescriptions. These changes come amid the government’s strategy to cut departmental costs by 15 percent over the next three years, as highlighted in the federal budget announcement made in November.

The announcement of the co-pay and associated fees has sparked discussions about the financial management of health services for asylum seekers in Canada, particularly in relation to the significant expenses accrued over the last ten years. Critics and supporters alike are likely to weigh in on the potential impacts of these changes on vulnerable populations who rely on the IFHP for essential health services.

This report was first published on April 23, 2026, emphasizing the ongoing conversation surrounding immigration policies and health care provisions for asylum seekers in Canada. The future implications of these new cost-sharing measures remain to be seen, particularly regarding their effect on those who are navigating the complex refugee claim process.