Happy February!

It feels like just yesterday we were extending our holiday greetings—time truly flies! As we embrace February, we’re excited to share some important updates in health care and Canadian immigration.

Changes to the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)

Ottawa, January 27, 2026 – As announced in Budget 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will introduce co-payments for supplemental health products and services for eligible beneficiaries under the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP).

The IFHP provides limited, temporary coverage for urgent and essential health products and services until beneficiaries transition to provincial or territorial health care programs.

What is changing:

• Starting May 1, 2026, IFHP beneficiaries will be responsible for:

Beneficiaries will pay these amounts directly to their health care providers. Basic health care benefits—such as doctor visits and hospital care—remain fully covered with no co-payments.

Tips for beneficiaries starting May 1, 2026:

• Choose a health care provider registered under IFHP using the IFHP Provider Search Tool

• Ask your provider whether a co-payment applies before receiving care

• Confirm the amount you will need to pay

• Keep receipts for all co-payments

These changes aim to ensure supplemental health care remains accessible while supporting the long-term sustainability of the IFHP.

Express Entry Updates

Canadian immigration has seen major changes to Express Entry, including new streams and updated requirements:

1. Targeted draws now require 12 months of experience For example, healthcare draws now require 12 months of experience in a healthcare occupation, up from the previous six months. This change may impact Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores and eligibility for targeted draws.

2. New and updated streams

• New streams: Foreign medical doctors with Canadian experience, researchers, senior managers, transport occupations (pilots, mechanics), and certain foreign military applicants

• Continuing streams: French draws, healthcare draws, trades draws, STEM, and education

• Removed streams/occupations: Agriculture draws and cooks in the trades category

If you have at least 12 months of experience in any active or newly launched category, you can create a profile and remain in the Express Entry pool.

Need assistance? Our team at R&R Law LLP is ready to guide you through your immigration applications and help you navigate these changes.

Staying Informed in 2026

As Canadian immigration policies continue to evolve, staying informed is key. At R&R Law LLP, we are committed to guiding individuals and businesses through every stage of the immigration process. Whether you’re planning a move, applying for citizenship, or exploring work and study opportunities, our team provides clarity and support throughout 2026 and beyond.

Regards,

Rema and Rebecca