Refugee Services in Canada 2026: Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), Financial Assistance & Settlement Support



Starting a new life in Canada after fleeing conflict or persecution can be challenging. To help refugees settle successfully, the Government of Canada offers a range of health care, financial assistance, and settlement services. These programs are designed to provide immediate support and help newcomers become independent members of Canadian society.

At New Jain Immigration Services, we believe that understanding these services can make the settlement process easier. This guide explains the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), financial assistance for refugees, immigration loans, and the settlement services available to eligible newcomers in Canada.

Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) for Refugees

One of the first concerns for many newcomers is access to health care. Canada provides temporary health coverage through the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP) for eligible individuals who do not yet qualify for provincial or territorial health insurance.

Who May Qualify for IFHP?

You may be eligible if you are:

A refugee (asylum) claimant
A protected person
A resettled refugee
A member of certain other eligible immigration groups
How IFHP Works

In most cases:

You do not need to submit a separate application.
Your eligibility is based on your immigration status.
Health coverage is automatically activated or cancelled as your immigration status changes.

The IFHP helps ensure eligible refugees receive essential medical care while they establish themselves in Canada.

Financial Help for Refugees in Canada

The Canadian government offers financial support programs to help eligible refugees meet their basic needs during their first months in Canada.

Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP)

The Resettlement Assistance Program (RAP) provides immediate settlement support to eligible Government-Assisted Refugees and certain members of the Country of Asylum Class with special needs.

Please note: Individuals who claim refugee protection after arriving in Canada are generally not eligible for the Resettlement Assistance Program.

What Does RAP Cover?

The program provides support for:

Airport or port of entry reception
Temporary accommodation
Assistance finding permanent housing
Basic household necessities
Orientation to life in Canada
Referrals to government and community services

Eligible refugees may also receive income support for up to one year or until they become financially self-sufficient, whichever comes first.

Immigration Loans Program

Some refugees selected for resettlement may qualify for financial assistance through the Immigration Loans Program.

These loans help cover:

Transportation costs to Canada
Additional settlement expenses when required

The goal is to ensure refugees can safely travel to Canada and begin their new lives even if they cannot immediately cover these costs.

Repaying an Immigration Loan

Loan repayment normally begins 12 months after arriving in Canada.

Monthly payments are calculated based on the total loan amount borrowed.

Several payment options are available, including:

Credit card
Debit card
Electronic bill payment
Pre-authorized debit

If a refugee experiences financial hardship, they may request a review of their repayment schedule.

Refugee Resettlement Journey in Canada

The first weeks after arriving in Canada are focused on helping refugees adjust to their new environment.

Government-assisted refugees may receive immediate support such as:

Airport reception
Temporary housing
Help finding permanent accommodation
Community orientation
Registration for essential federal and provincial services
Budgeting and personal finance assistance
Opening a Canadian bank account
Life skills training for refugees with higher settlement needs
Referrals to community organizations

For privately sponsored refugees, many of these services are provided directly by their sponsoring organization.

Settlement Services for Refugees

Beyond initial resettlement, Canada funds a wide range of settlement services to help refugees integrate successfully into Canadian society.

These services may include:

Settlement information and orientation
Community referrals
Translation and interpretation services
English and French language training
Employment preparation and job search assistance
Community networking opportunities

These programs help newcomers develop the skills and confidence needed to build successful lives in Canada.

Newcomer Services in Canada

Canada funds hundreds of qualified settlement service provider organizations across the country that offer free newcomer services to eligible immigrants and refugees.

Depending on your eligibility, these organizations can help with:

Finding housing
Accessing health care
Language classes
Employment support
Community connections
Government services
Settlement planning

Each settlement program has its own eligibility requirements based on immigration status and location.

Finding Settlement Service Provider Organizations (SPOs)

Settlement Service Provider Organizations (SPOs) operate throughout Canada to assist newcomers.

These organizations help refugees access local services and community resources while supporting their successful integration into Canadian society.

If you were privately sponsored as a refugee, your sponsoring organization can also help connect you with available settlement services.

Why Refugee Settlement Services Matter

Canada’s refugee support system is designed to do more than provide immediate protection. It helps newcomers establish stable, independent lives by offering:

Temporary health care coverage
Financial assistance
Housing support
Language education
Employment services
Community integration
Ongoing settlement guidance

These programs allow refugees to rebuild their lives with dignity while becoming active members of Canadian communities.

How New Jain Immigration Services Can Help

Understanding refugee programs, eligibility requirements, and settlement services can be complex. At New Jain Immigration Services, we are committed to providing accurate immigration information and professional guidance to individuals exploring Canada’s refugee and immigration pathways.

Whether you are looking to understand the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), refugee financial assistance, settlement services, or the latest Canadian immigration updates, our experienced team is here to help you make informed decisions.

Contact New Jain Immigration Services today to learn more about refugee services, settlement support, and Canadian immigration programs.A

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