Healthcare Resources
Navigating a new healthcare system is one of the bigger challenges of settling in Canada. We're here to help you understand your options and get the care you need.
Free Healthcare for Newcomers
If you have permanent residence, a work permit, or a study permit valid for six months or more, you're eligible for BC's Medical Services Plan (MSP), which covers essential medical care at no cost. Most newcomers must wait three months before coverage begins, and need to arrange private insurance to bridge the gap.
Community Resources
Interim Health Program for Refugees
Refugees and certain other groups are covered immediately upon arrival through the Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP), which includes basic, supplemental, and prescription drug coverage. An IRCC or Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) officer will determine your eligibility shortly after you arrive.
Healthcare Research & Reports
Newcomers Navigating Healthcare Report
This report explores the challenges and systemic barriers newcomers face when accessing healthcare on Vancouver Island, and maps a path toward more equitable care in the Greater Victoria region.
Newcomer Group Blood Drive Initiative
A pilot led by ICA alongside GVLIP and Canadian Blood Services, exploring whether group blood donation could strengthen newcomers' sense of belonging. It could, and it's worth doing again.
Newcomers Navigating Healthcare Report
This report explores the challenges and systemic barriers newcomers face when accessing healthcare on Vancouver Island, and maps a path toward more equitable care in the Greater Victoria region.
External Healthcare Resources
Provincial Language Services
Need an interpreter? Provincial Language Services (PLS) offers interpreting in more than 200 languages, available around the clock at Island Health and many other healthcare providers across BC, at no cost to patients and their families. Ask your healthcare provider to connect you.
Newcomer Group Blood Drive Initiative
A pilot led by ICA alongside GVLIP and Canadian Blood Services, exploring whether group blood donation could strengthen newcomers' sense of belonging. It could, and it's worth doing again.
Get Support
Hanna Kontomyrova
Greater Victoria Local Immigration Partnership (GVLIP) Coordinator
Email: hkontomyrova@icavictoria.org