Quebec extends public health insurance for Ukrainian refugees until 2028

Quebec Health Minister Christian Dubé responds to the Opposition during question period, Thursday, June 8, 2023 at the legislature in Quebec City. (Jacques Boissinot/The Canadian Press)

Ukrainian refugees in Quebec will keep getting health coverage for at least another three years.

The public health insurance (RAMQ) was set to expire this upcoming March, but Health Minister Christian Dubé’s office confirmed the coverage will be extended until 2028.

Tens of thousands of Ukrainians came into Quebec through the Canada-Ukraine Authorization for Emergency Travel (CUAET) program, which allowed them to have an open work or study permit and stay for up to three years.

Though permits were extended until 2027, refugees received a notice in August that their health coverage would soon come to an end.

“Quebec has shown its support for the Ukrainian people and will stand by its commitment,” Dubé’s office said in a statement sent to CTV News.

The province is in negotiations with Ottawa over financial support for the program, they added.