Newcomer guides
Health and mental health
How health coverage works for newcomers and refugees, where to go when you are sick, and where to find support for your mind and heart.
Checked October 2026 · Ontario
Which health coverage do you have?
Permanent residents, protected persons
OHIP (Ontario health card)
There is no waiting period. Apply in person at ServiceOntario with 3 original documents: one showing your status, one showing your Ontario address, and one proving who you are.
Refugee claimants, resettled refugees
Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)
Covers doctors and hospitals until you qualify for OHIP. Show your refugee document. Since May 1, 2026, you may have to pay part of the cost for some services, such as counselling, prescriptions and dental care.
No coverage yet
You can still get care
Community Health Centres see people without health insurance. Hospitals will treat emergencies. Call us and we will find a clinic for you.
Sick or hurt? Where to go
Not sure? Call Health811
Free advice from a registered nurse, 24 hours a day, with interpreters. They tell you if you need a doctor, a clinic or the hospital.
Pharmacy
Minor problems
Ontario pharmacists can assess and prescribe for common issues like pink eye, cold sores and urinary infections. Free with an OHIP card.
Walk-in
Walk-in clinic
No appointment needed. Good for most illnesses when you do not have a family doctor.
Emergencies only
Chest pain, trouble breathing, serious injury or bleeding. The wait can be long for anything less urgent.
Find a family doctor
Register with Health Care Connect (call 1-800-445-1822 or apply online) to be matched with a family doctor or nurse practitioner. Waits can be long, so sign up early.
Mental health
It is okay not to be okay
Leaving home, waiting for decisions, money worries and loneliness are heavy. Trouble sleeping, sadness, anger or constant worry are common. Asking for help is a sign of strength, and in Canada what you share with a counsellor is kept confidential.
ConnexOntario
Free, 24/7. Helps you find mental health, addiction and gambling services near you.
If you survived war, violence or torture
Nightmares, flashbacks, feeling numb or always on alert can be signs of trauma. They are normal reactions to terrible events, and they can get better with the right support.
- The Canadian Centre for Victims of Torture (CCVT) offers free counselling and support for survivors
- Community Health Centres often have counsellors who speak your language
- A doctor's or counsellor's letter can also support your refugee claim; ask your lawyer.
Small things that help
- Keep a daily routine
- Go outside every day, even for a short walk
- Talk to someone you trust, here or back home
- Join a community group, place of worship or sports club
- Limit news and social media about home if it makes you anxious.
Good to know
Ask for an interpreter
Hospitals and many clinics can provide an interpreter, often for free. You do not have to use your children to translate.
Your health information is private
Health workers must keep your health information confidential, with very few exceptions set by law. Ask them if you are worried.
Dental and eye care cost extra
OHIP usually does not cover adult dental care or glasses. Ask us about low-cost dental clinics and the Canadian Dental Care Plan.
Trusted information
Sources
- Apply for OHIP
- Interim Federal Health Program
- CLEO: changes to IFHP, May 2026
- Health811
- 988
- ConnexOntario
- CCVT
General information, not medical advice.