Vaccination plays a fundamental role in protecting Canadians from infectious diseases. Vaccines authorized for use in Canada meet high standards for safety, quality and efficacy, and are continuously monitored for serious or unexpected adverse effects. While serious adverse events from vaccines are rare, when they do occur, they can have a significant impact on the individual and their family.
Today, the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health, announced that the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) will begin administering the Vaccine Impact Assistance Program (VIAP) on April 1, 2026.
Previously known as the Vaccine Injury Support Program and delivered by a third-party administrator, the VIAP will continue to provide financial support to people vaccinated in Canada (except Quebec) who have experienced a serious and permanent injury as a result of receiving a Health Canada authorized vaccine, administered in Canada, on or after December 8, 2020.
The VIAP aims to better support those who need it. PHAC will be working to address the existing backlog of applications, while improving the consistency and transparency of the claims process. It will also draw on lessons learned from the previous program, as well as best practices from similar programs administered by Quebec and G7 partners.
