Ontario restricts social assistance for undocumented residents and temporary permit holders

The Ontario government has implemented immediate changes to social assistance eligibility, barring individuals without legal residency status from receiving provincial aid. The new regulations affect both the Ontario Works program and the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP).

Under the revised rules, those residing in Canada illegally, as well as individuals on temporary permits—such as students, workers, visitors, and tourists—are no longer eligible for these benefits. Premier Doug Ford announced the changes on social media, stating that taxpayer-funded assistance is intended for those with legal residency who are facing economic hardship, rather than undocumented residents.

The policy shift follows a May ruling by the Social Benefits Tribunal, which granted aid to a man who had been in Canada on an expired work permit since 1997. Following media coverage of that decision, the provincial government moved to amend the Ontario Works Act and the Ontario Disability Support Program Act to prevent similar cases.