What to Know About the Upfront Medical Exam for IRCC

An upfront medical exam for Canada is a health assessment you can complete before submitting your immigration application. However, as of October 2023, IRCC no longer requires upfront medical exams for Express Entry. You'll receive instructions after application submission. Most applicants do not need to fast for their medical examination.

Planning to immigrate to Canada? Understanding the immigration medical examination process is essential for a successful application. This guide covers current requirements, procedures, and everything you need to know about medical evaluations for Canadian immigration in 2025.

What Is an Immigration Medical Exam?

An immigration medical exam (IME) is a mandatory health assessment required by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for most immigration applications. This medical examination serves three primary purposes:

• Protecting Canadian public health and safety
• Identifying existing medical conditions that might create excessive demand for healthcare services
• Ensuring applicants meet health requirements for their immigration category

All permanent residence applicants must complete an IME, along with many temporary residents, depending on their country of origin and length of stay. The exam must be conducted by an IRCC-approved panel physician who will assess your medical history and current health status.

Current Requirements and Policy Changes (2025)

Important Policy Update

As of October 1, 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada no longer requires an upfront immigration medical examination for Express Entry applications. Instead, applicants receive medical exam instructions after submitting their complete application to the government.

Who Needs a Medical Examination?

Permanent Residence Applicants

• All applicants and family members (including non-accompanying)
• Medical examination required after application submission
• Instructions provided by IRCC through your online account

Temporary Residence Applicants

• Visitors, students, and work permit holders from designated countries
• Those planning to stay longer than six months in Canada
• Agricultural workers with a specific travel history to certain regions

The visa office provides specific instructions about when you need to undergo your medical examination based on your application type and circumstances.

Finding and Working With Panel Physicians

Locating an Approved Provider

You must visit a doctor from the IRCC's list of approved panel physicians. Your family doctor cannot perform immigration medical examinations for citizenship purposes.

To locate a panel physician:

1. Access the official IRCC panel physician directory online
2. Search by your current location or nearest clinic
3. Contact the physician directly to book your appointment
4. Confirm they perform the type of examination you need
5. Verify they can complete all required tests at one location

Required Documentation

Bring the following documents:

• Government-issued photo identification (passport preferred)
• Passport or travel document with a current passport photo
• Any eyeglasses or contact lenses you regularly wear
• Complete list of current medications you take
• Previous medical reports or test results (if available)
• Vaccination records and immunization history

Proper identification is crucial, as clinic staff will verify your identity multiple times throughout the process.

The Medical Examination Process

Step 1: Initial Assessment

• Height, weight, and vital signs measurement
• Heart and lung examination by the physician
• General physical exam assessment
• Vision and hearing tests (if required based on age)
• Review of your medical history with detailed questions

Step 2: Medical History Review

The doctor will fill out a comprehensive medical history questionnaire covering the following:

• Current and previous health conditions
• All medications and ongoing treatment
• Family medical history relevant to your health
• Vaccination status and immunization records
• Any previous or existing medical conditions requiring monitoring

Step 3: Additional Testing (Age-Dependent)

• Chest X-ray for tuberculosis screening (most applicants)
• Blood test for specific conditions as determined by the physician
• Urine analysis and lab tests, when indicated
• Additional tests based on your age, medical history, or risk factors

The physical examination does not include genital or rectal exams, as these are not required for immigration purposes. The panel physician will explain each step of the process and answer any questions you have.

Understanding Your Results

Normal Results

• The physician submits medical reports electronically through the e-medical system
• You receive a document with your case number (IME/UMI) confirming completion
• No further action required from you regarding the medical examination

Abnormal Results

• The physician will discuss any concerning findings with you directly
• You may need additional tests or specialist consultations
• The doctor will explain what the abnormal results mean for your application
• Additional medical reports may be required before submission to IRCC

Timeline, Costs, and Validity

Processing Timeline → Medical reports submission: 1-3 business days after your examination → IRCC review for standard cases: 2-4 weeks → Complex cases requiring additional assessment: 6-12 weeks → Cases requiring specialist consultation: Additional 4-8 weeks processing time

Examination Costs

Medical exam costs vary by location and physician but generally include the following:

• Basic physical examination fees charged by the clinic
• Chest X-ray charges (usually performed at one location)
• Laboratory test costs for blood and urine analysis
• Administrative fees for processing medical reports
• Additional costs for any extra tests required by the physician

Most clinics accept credit cards, debit cards, and cash. Some facilities offer family payment plans for multiple family members.

Validity Period

• Medical examination results remain valid for 12 months from the examination date.
• Panel physicians submit results electronically to the IRCC using the e-medical system.
• Applicants receive updates through their online IRCC account.

Application Types and Requirements

Permanent Residence Applications

Permanent residence applicants must undergo a comprehensive medical examination that includes:

• Complete physical exam by an approved panel physician
• Chest X-ray screening for tuberculosis (required for most applicants)
• Blood test for syphilis and other conditions, as determined
• Mental health assessment when indicated
• Additional tests based on age, medical history, and risk factors

Temporary Residence Examinations

Work permit applicants and temporary residents may require modified examinations depending on:

• Length of intended stay (typically those staying longer than six months)
• Country of origin and associated health risks
• Type of work or activities planned in Canada
• Previous medical history and current health status

Family Class and Refugees

Family members, including non-accompanying relatives, must complete medical examinations even if they won't initially travel to Canada. Refugees may have modified examination requirements, and the government may provide additional support for examination costs.

Special Circumstances

Managing Existing Medical Conditions

If you have previous or existing medical conditions, proper preparation includes:

• Gathering comprehensive medical reports from your current physician
• Obtaining specialist letters documenting your treatment and prognosis
• Ensuring all current medications are properly documented with dosages
• Understanding how your condition might affect your application assessment

Special Populations

Applicant Category	Key Information
Pregnant Applicants	Medical examinations can be safely completed during pregnancy. Chest X-ray procedures may be modified or delayed for safety. The physician will discuss any special considerations during your appointment. Additional medical reports may be required from your obstetrician.
Applicants With Disabilities	Clinics must provide accessible facilities and accommodation. The physician will adapt examination procedures as needed. Additional time may be required to complete the physical exam. Support persons can accompany you during the examination process.
Multiple Family Members	All family members must complete medical exams, including non-accompanying relatives. Children and elderly family members may have modified examination requirements. Scheduling multiple appointments at one location can streamline the process.

Post-Examination Guidelines

Immediate Next Steps

After completing your medical examination:

• Keep all receipts and documentation provided by the clinic.
• Note your case number (IME/UMI) for future reference.
• Follow any specific instructions provided by the panel physician.
• Monitor your IRCC online account for application updates.

If Follow-Up Is Required

Sometimes, additional testing or consultations are necessary:

• Complete any requested follow-up tests promptly to avoid delays.
• Provide additional medical reports as requested by the physician.
• Attend specialist appointments if referred by the panel physician.
• Keep the clinic informed of any changes in your health status.

Monitoring Your Application

• Access your IRCC online account regularly for updates.
• Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.
• Contact the visa office if you have questions about processing delays.
• Keep your contact information current in your application.

FAQs

Do I need to fast for immigration medical exam procedures?

No, fasting is typically not required for immigration medical examinations in Canada. Standard tests do not necessitate fasting unless specifically requested by your panel physician for certain blood work, which occurs infrequently.

What if I miss my scheduled medical exam appointment?

Contact your panel physician immediately to reschedule. Missing appointments can delay your immigration application processing. Most clinics understand emergencies but require advance notice when possible.

Can I use my previous medical exam results?

If you completed an immigration medical exam within the past 12 months for another application, you can use those results. Include your IME number or unique medical identifier when applying.

Key Documents and Forms

Throughout the examination process, you'll encounter several important documents:

• Form IMM 1017B (upfront medical exam for Canada immigration Report) - completed by panel physicians for upfront medical exams
• Case number documentation (IME/UMI) provided after your exam
• Medical reports generated by your panel physician
• Test results from lab tests, chest X-ray, and other tests
• Passport photo requirements for identification verification

Ensure you understand what each document represents and keep copies for your records during the immigration process.

Complete Your Canada Immigration Upfront Medical Exam With Confidence at GTA

At GTA Immigration Medical Clinic Markham, we make your immigration medical exam process simple and stress-free. As IRCC-approved panel physicians serving the Greater Toronto Area, we offer comprehensive immigration medical exam services with on-site X-ray facilities, blood and urine testing, and fast e-medical processing, all at one location. Our experienced team provides services in Cantonese and Mandarin, ensuring clear communication throughout your visit.

Located at 3603 Highway 7 E in Markham, with easy access from Highways 401, 404, 407, and 410, we serve patients across the GTA, including Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Thornhill, and Scarborough. With free parking, convenient hours, and a specialized focus on immigration medical examinations, we understand IRCC requirements and guide you through every step of the process.

Ready to complete your immigration medical exam? Book your appointment online today or call us to schedule your visit with Markham's trusted IRCC-approved panel physicians.