B.C. Opens Applications for Free IVF Program Covering One Round Per Patient

Starting Wednesday, British Columbians covered under the Medical Services Plan (MSP) can access one publicly funded round of in-vitro fertilization (IVF), as the province officially launches its long-awaited fertility support program.

The program covers up to $19,000 per patient, including procedures such as egg and sperm retrieval, fertilization, embryo transfer, and use of previously frozen eggs or embryos. However, elective egg freezing for future use is not included in the funding.

Patients must be aged 18 to 41 to qualify, though a grace period allows individuals turning 42 between April 1 and July 2, 2025, to remain eligible. Fertility doctors must submit applications on behalf of patients, due to the medical information required.

IVF is often a vital option for those experiencing infertility due to age or medical conditions, but the cost—often nearing $20,000—has made it inaccessible to many. The province hopes the new program will change that.

The initiative was initially scheduled to open in April but was delayed to July 2. Health Minister Josie Osborne attributed the delay to the complexity of setting up the system and coordinating with medical providers.

So far, details about participating fertility clinics and the handling of gestational surrogates have not been finalized, though a FAQ has been made available on the government’s website.

Dr. Ken Seethram, a fertility specialist with the Pacific Centre for Reproductive Medicine, says interest has spiked since the program was announced.

“The cost of IVF is really one of the barriers for individuals to undertake it,” he said. “It does provide the best success rates that we have in assisted conception right now.”

With a $68-million budget over two years, the initiative brings B.C. in line with at least seven other provinces that offer publicly funded or reimbursed fertility treatments — aiming to make family-building more accessible to residents across the province.