First Nations Health Benefits has expanded infant eligibility to 24 months. This will give families more time to apply to Indigenous Services Canada (ISC) for status numbers for their children.

Children up to 24 months of age are now able to access their benefits using an eligible parent or guardian's status number. Children older than 24 months (two​ years old) are required to use their own status number when accessing benefits. 

In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the First Nations Health Authority (FNHA) is working to make it easier for clients to access Health Benefits. Prior to this change, children without a status number could only access benefits until they reached 18 months of age. 

Parents and guardians of newborns are encouraged to start status registration immediately after birth. This will ensure that there are no gaps in benefit coverage. 

If you need help with status registration, contact your Band Office or visit the ISC website.​