If you've just completed your medical exam, you're probably wondering, "What is the next step after a medical test for Canadian immigration?" With dreams of making Canada your new home, it's natural to feel anxious about each stage. Whether you're applying for permanent or temporary residency, understanding the post-exam process is crucial for your successful application.
We know the waiting and uncertainty can be confusing, but don't worry! We understand the concerns and questions you might have. That's why we're here to inform you of the following steps, manage expectations, and help you prepare for whatever comes your way.
In this article, we'll discuss what happens next after completing your medical tests. From IRCC decisions to potential additional steps, we'll walk through this process and get you one step closer to Canada!
Who Should Take Canada's Immigration Medical Exam?
Permanent Residents. Those who want to apply for permanent residency in Canada have to pass a medical exam. This crucial step helps Canadian immigration authorities check that your health conditions won’t affect public health or create extra pressure on health services.
Temporary Residents. People planning to stay in Canada for over six months, like workers or students, often need a medical exam. This helps maintain the country’s health standards and public safety.
Refugees and Asylum Seekers. All refugees and asylum seekers must go through a medical exam. It's a measure put in place by Canadian public policy to protect local public health by identifying any medical conditions that could be concerning.
Family Sponsored Applicants. Those sponsored by family members for permanent residence may need an exam too. This helps confirm that their health will not prevent their successful integration into Canadian society or become a financial strain on public healthcare.
Individuals With Certain Work or Student Visas. Depending on your job type or your field of study, particularly if you’ll be working with vulnerable populations, a medical exam may be required.
What Are the Types of Medical Exams Required?
Physical Examination
In a physical examination, the doctor performs a basic health check-up. They assess your height, weight, eyesight, blood pressure, and hearing. They will also look for any signs of illnesses or medical conditions that might need more attention. This helps the Canadian immigration authorities get a good sense of your overall health status.
Chest X-Rays
Adults going through the immigration process need to have chest X-rays. These check for any lung issues, like tuberculosis that could be a risk to public health. For kids under 11 and pregnant women, these X-rays are usually skipped unless absolutely needed. It’s an important part of making sure everyone coming to Canada is healthy.
Blood Tests
You’ll also need to have blood tests. These are crucial for spotting infectious diseases such as HIV or syphilis. These tests give immigration officials confidence that you’re not carrying any illnesses that could impact public health.
Urine Tests
Urine tests help check for kidney diseases and other health conditions. As part of the standard medical exam, this test helps doctors gather more information about your overall health for immigration purposes.
What Is the Next Step After Medical Test for Canada Immigration 2024?
Step 1: The Panel Physician Submits Your Results
After you’ve completed your physical exam, your panel physician will send your exam results directly to the Canadian immigration authorities. This includes details from your urine tests, blood tests, and any special tests you took. You don’t need to worry about sending in any incorrect documentation yourself because the clinic handles this part. Your role here is to wait as the paperwork moves to the visa office.
Step 2: Wait for the IRCC Review
Once the Canadian immigration authorities receive your medical reports, they will begin reviewing your health status. This step is crucial in the application process but doesn’t affect your other immigration applications directly. The timeframe can vary depending on the application volume and your specific application type. Keep an eye on your online portal to stay updated on your application status and quickly respond to any requests for additional document submissions
Step 3: Provide Additional Testing Requests
If IRCC identifies potential concerns regarding your health conditions, they might request some additional tests or require more medical information. This won’t necessarily delay your application, but it is essential to provide these quickly to maintain a smooth application process. For instance, they might ask for more laboratory tests if your previous screenings showed something unusual.
Step 4: Complete Medical Surveillance (If Necessary)
In some cases, you may be asked to participate in medical surveillance. This is specifically for applicants with medical conditions that the Canadian government wants to monitor over time. If you need to do this, you’ll receive detailed instructions on how to proceed.
This step ensures that your health conditions are managed effectively while keeping your well-being and public health in mind. Cooperation with this process is important for your permanent residence or temporary residence application approval.
Step 5: Continue With the Immigration Process
Once your medical results are approved, you can proceed with the remaining steps in your immigration journey. At this point, your health checks have been reviewed, and you’re clear to move forward in the application process.
For many, this will involve finalizing details with the visa office and preparing for arrival in Canada. Staying organized with your paperwork and following Canadian immigration policies will help you settle seamlessly into your new life.
What Happens if You Fail the Medical Examination?
If you happen to fail the medical examination for Canadian immigration, don't panic just yet. It doesn’t automatically mean your immigration application is canceled. Generally, applicants are found inadmissible if their health conditions pose a serious risk to public health or may lead to an excessive demand on Canada's health or social services.
If you're informed of a failure, you will receive detailed reasons from Canadian immigration authorities. At this point, you may consider consulting an immigration expert who can help you explore your options, whether that involves additional testing, submitting more documents, or legal advice on how to address the issue.
How to Overcome Medical Inadmissibility to Canada?
Step 1: Understand Why You’re Considered Medically Inadmissible
First, it's essential to know the specific reasons behind your medical inadmissibility for Canadian immigration. Usually, this could be due to serious health conditions, contagious infectious diseases, or potential strain on Canada's health services. Understanding these grounds helps you determine the best way to address them.
Step 2: Consult an Immigration Lawyer
Hiring an immigration lawyer with expertise in medical inadmissibility can be a smart move. They can explain your circumstances and suggest solutions related to the policy for immigration and public policy. With their guidance, you might be able to contest the findings or present new information. Legal advice can greatly impact the outcome of your application.
Step 3: Develop a Medical Mitigation Plan
Sometimes, proposing a plan to cover your own medical expenses can help address concerns. This plan can include paying for any additional tests or treatments yourself, to show you won’t burden Canada’s healthcare system. A well-prepared and clear plan can demonstrate that you’re taking steps to manage your health conditions effectively. This approach might help overcome your inadmissibility.
Step 4: Consider Applying for a Temporary Resident Permit
If other avenues don’t work, you can apply for a Temporary Resident Permit with the assistance of your immigration lawyer. This allows you to stay in Canada temporarily even if you're medically inadmissible. It's a special permit given in unique situations and shows that Canada is willing to make exceptions when there’s a strong reason to allow someone entry despite health concerns.
After compiling all the required documents to complete a TRP application, you may submit it to the Canadian immigration authorities for consideration
How Much Does Canadian Immigration Medical Exam Cost?
The cost of a Canadian immigration medical exam can vary but typically ranges from CAD 200 to CAD 400. This cost covers the basic physical exam, urine tests, and blood tests. However, depending on your health needs or the clinic’s requirements, you might have to pay extra for special tests like X-rays or other additional testing. It's always a good idea to contact your chosen clinic directly to get an exact quote and set expectations upfront.
How Long Does It Take To Get a Visa After Medical Exam?
Waiting for your visa decision after your medical exam can feel like a long time, but it’s all part of the immigration process. Generally, the timeline can vary greatly depending on different factors, such as the complexity of your application type and the application volume being handled by the visa office.
Often, the processing times may range from a few weeks to several months. If the Canadian immigration authorities need more information, like an additional document, the speed of your response can also affect the timeline. This waiting period requires patience, so keep an eye on your email or other communication channels.
Move a Step Closer to Canada—Schedule Your Immigration Medical Exam Today!
Getting through the steps after your Canada immigration medical exam can feel overwhelming. But breaking it down into manageable actions and staying informed can ease the stress. Remember, a successful immigration application often depends on being proactive and responsive to any requirements. This journey may have its challenges, but with the right guidance, you'll be one step closer to making Canada your home.
Our team at GTA Immigration Medical Clinic Markham is always ready to help. Our panel physicians are approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) to conduct immigration medical exams. We provide all services, including blood and urine tests and radiology, and will ensure you meet Canada's immigration requirements in one visit.
We proudly welcome patients from Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), and all the way to Scarborough. Book your immigration medical exam now!
