No More Upfront Medical Exams For Express Entry

In a significant policy shift, starting October 1, 2023, prospective permanent residents applying through Express Entry will no longer be mandated to undergo an upfront medical examination. This marks a pivotal change in the application process, aimed at streamlining and simplifying the path to Canadian permanent residence. The Canadian government has introduced a temporary public policy for immigration medical exams (IMEs), which will remain in effect until October 6, 2024.

Who must take the Immigration Medical Exam?

For obtaining permanent residence as an immigrant, a medical examination conducted by a panel physician is a mandatory requirement.

When applying for permanent residence, you and your family members must undergo an IME, even if they won't accompany you to Canada. However, your personal physician cannot conduct this exam; it must be performed by a doctor from the list of panel physicians approved by IRCC.

If you have yet to undergo an IME, you can now submit a blank document in the Express Entry profile Builder upload field when applying. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will subsequently provide instructions regarding the timing of your required medical examination.

If you've done an IME for a prior application and are in Canada now, there is no need for another IME for permanent residence.

Authorized Medical Examiner for Your Assessment

The panel physician can't have the final say in your medical exam; IRCC is the authorized medical examiner for your assessment. IRCC will not approve your permanent residence application if your health risks Canada's public health or safety or if it would excessively burden Canada's health or social services.

Essential Documents for Medical Exam Appointment

When attending your scheduled medical exam appointment, you must bring the following:

1. Appropriate identification (your passport as your identification document).
2. Eyeglasses or contact lenses if you use them.
3. Medical reports or test results related to previous or existing medical conditions.
4. A list of your current medications.
5. The Medical Report form.
6. Four recent photographs if the panel physician does not use eMedical.

During the medical examination, you can expect to complete a medical history questionnaire, which will inquire about your past and current medical conditions. Additionally, you will undergo a physical examination.

Depending on your age, chest X-rays and other laboratory tests may be required. When you go for those tests, you may need to provide your identification again. Also, note that proof of vaccination is not a mandatory requirement.

You must pay all fees associated with the medical exam on the spot. This includes the fees for the doctor or radiologist, any necessary special tests, investigations, or treatment, and any specialists you may need to consult.

Your medical exam results are valid for up to 12 months. If you do not arrive in Canada as a permanent resident within this timeframe, you might be required to undergo another examination.