Ontario has revised its social assistance eligibility criteria to exclude temporary visa holders and individuals living illegally in the province. The changes affect recipients of Ontario Works and the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP) and took effect immediately on August 14, 2026.
Groups Excluded From Social Assistance
The updated regulations specifically bar international students, temporary workers, visitor visa holders, tourists, and those without legal status from receiving provincial social aid. These measures clarify that only individuals legally authorized to reside in Canada qualify for Ontario’s social assistance programs.
Background of the Policy Change
The policy revision responds to a case involving an individual who entered Canada on a work permit
in 1997 but later lost legal status and remained in the country. The Ontario Social Benefits Tribunal had previously allowed this person, who had lived in Canada illegally for over 20 years, to claim Ontario Works benefits because the existing legislation did not automatically exclude such cases. Media coverage of this situation prompted government action.
Government Response and Practical Impact
Ontario Premier Doug Ford committed to amending regulations to explicitly prevent social assistance for people living in Canada illegally. Michael Parsa, Ontario’s Minister of Children, Community and Social Services, emphasized that taxpayer-funded benefits should not support those without legal immigration status. The policy change restricts
provincial financial aid access but does not affect the validity of visas, permits, or legal status of those temporarily authorized to remain in Canada.
These regulatory amendments affect eligibility under both the Ontario Works Act, 1997, and the Ontario Disability Support Program Act, 1997. Temporary visa holders residing in Ontario, including international students and temporary workers, are no longer eligible for benefits under these programs as of August 14, 2026.
