Effective October 1st, a significant change has taken place regarding upfront medical examinations for those submitting applications for permanent residence through Express Entry. Applicants are no longer obligated to undergo an upfront medical examination.
Traditionally, an immigrant medical exam (IME) conducted by a panel physician was a mandatory requirement for permanent residence applications. However, this new adjustment offers applicants more flexibility.
If you haven’t previously completed an IME, you can now upload a blank document in the designated field within the Express Entry profile builder when submitting your application. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will subsequently provide you with instructions on when to proceed with your medical examination.
Importantly, if you have already undergone an IME as part of a prior application, such as for work or study, and are currently residing in Canada, you are not required to undergo another IME when applying for permanent residence.
Understanding the IME
When applying for permanent residence, having an IME remains a requirement. Furthermore, all family members must also undergo a medical examination, even if they are not accompanying you to Canada.
It’s essential to note that your personal doctor cannot conduct the IME. You must visit a doctor from the list of panel physicians approved by IRCC.
The final decision regarding your medical exam is made by IRCC. If your health poses a risk to Canada’s public health or safety or could strain the country’s health or social services, your permanent residence application will not be approved.
During your medical examination appointment, you should bring the following:
- Appropriate identification
- Eyeglasses or contact lenses if you use them
- Any medical reports or test results for previous or existing medical conditions
- A list of your current medications
- The Medical Report form (if you didn’t undergo an upfront medical exam)
- Four recent photographs (if the panel physician doesn’t use eMedical)
The medical examination typically comprises a medical history questionnaire inquiring about previous and existing medical conditions. You will also undergo a physical examination. Depending on your age, chest X-rays and other laboratory tests may be requested.
All fees related to the medical examination must be paid on-site. Once the results are available, the physician will send them to you along with a document confirming that you underwent the medical exam.
It’s important to note that your medical exam results remain valid for only 12 months. If you do not arrive in Canada as a permanent resident within that timeframe, you may need to undergo another examination.
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