1. Without a RAMQ card, you still have options
In Quebec, much care runs through the RAMQ health-insurance card. But not everyone qualifies right away: asylum seekers, people awaiting status, or those without status may find themselves with no card. If that's you, don't give up on care. There are programs and clinics precisely for you. This guide explains the two main routes: the Interim Federal Health Program for asylum seekers, and clinics for people with no coverage at all.
2. The Interim Federal Health Program (IFHP)
If you're an asylum seeker, you're generally eligible for the IFHP (Interim Federal Health Program). In most cases you don't need to apply: coverage is based on your immigration status. It's limited, temporary federal coverage that lasts until you become eligible, where applicable, for provincial RAMQ coverage.
Important: since May 1, 2026, the federal government requires a co-payment for IFHP supplemental health benefits — $4 for each eligible prescription medication filled or refilled, and 30% of the IFHP-covered cost of other eligible supplemental benefits, such as urgent dental care, vision care, mental health counselling and assistive devices. Basic care — doctor visits, hospital care and ambulance — stays fully covered, with no co-payment. Check your exact coverage on the official IFHP site and keep your documents.
3. If you have no coverage at all
Some people have neither RAMQ, nor IFHP, nor private insurance — for instance those with precarious status or no status. For them, community clinics exist. In Montréal, Médecins du Monde runs a clinic for migrants with precarious status, aimed precisely at people with no medical coverage at all (neither RAMQ nor IFHP) and in a precarious financial situation; care there is free and provided by volunteer doctors. Other community organizations and some CLSCs may also offer first care or steer you. No one should be left with no medical recourse at all: ask for help, even without papers.
4. Frequently asked questions
Here are the most common questions about care without a RAMQ card: what the IFHP covers, where to find a clinic, and what happens for children and pregnant women.
What exactly does the IFHP cover?
The IFHP covers basic care (doctor visits, hospital care, ambulance) at no cost. Since May 1, 2026, supplemental benefits (urgent dental care, vision, mental health counselling, assistive devices, prescriptions) involve a co-payment — $4 per prescription, 30% of the covered cost for other supplemental benefits. Because the exact list and rules can change, check the official IFHP help centre or ask a community organization that supports asylum seekers.
How do I find a clinic for people without coverage?
In Greater Montréal and Gatineau, call 211, free and multilingual, to find resources near you. Also search the Government of Québec's health and social services resource directory, or contact an organization that helps newcomers and asylum seekers — they know the local clinics. In Montréal, Médecins du Monde's clinic for migrants with precarious status is a key reference for people with neither RAMQ nor IFHP.
What about children or a pregnancy?
Care for children and around pregnancy and birth is especially important and shouldn't be delayed. The IFHP covers eligible asylum seekers' basic care at no cost, including prenatal and postnatal care; for those with no coverage, community clinics and CLSCs can help and orient you. Reach out early — prenatal follow-up and children's care are exactly where support exists.
5. See also
These related guides may be useful:
- RAMQ — provincial coverage and how to access it.
- Emergency help in Quebec — for crisis situations.
- Community organizations in Quebec — groups that can support you.
- Claiming asylum in Quebec — the steps of an asylum claim.
6. Official sources
For official information, see:
Author's Note: having no RAMQ card doesn't mean having no right to care. As an asylum seeker you have the IFHP; with no coverage at all, clinics like Médecins du Monde exist. The worst choice is suffering in silence out of fear of a bill or of status. Ask for help early — that's exactly what these resources are for.
