The Immigration Medical Examination (IME) is a health assessment required for most people applying to live in Canada permanently and for some temporary residents. The exam is performed by a designated panel physician authorized by IRCC. The purpose is to ensure that applicants do not pose a risk to Canadian public health or safety and do not place excessive demand on Canadian health and social services.
Who Needs a Medical Exam?
Medical exams are required for permanent residence applicants from most countries, refugee claimants, temporary workers or students planning to work in certain occupations (healthcare, childcare, education), and applicants who have lived in certain designated countries. Not all visitor visa applicants require a medical exam. IRCC will notify you if a medical exam is required for your application.
What the Medical Exam Includes
Medical History Review
The panel physician reviews your complete medical history. Be prepared to disclose all past and current medical conditions, surgeries, medications, and mental health history. Hiding conditions can result in misrepresentation findings and permanent inadmissibility.
Physical Examination
A complete physical examination including height, weight, blood pressure, vision, and a general examination of all body systems.
Chest X-Ray
Required for applicants 11 years and older. The chest X-ray screens for tuberculosis (TB). Pregnant applicants may have the X-ray deferred until after delivery.
Blood Tests
Blood tests screen for syphilis (required for applicants 15 and older) and HIV (required for some applicants depending on country of origin and length of stay).
Urine Test
A urine test is conducted to screen for diabetes, kidney disease, and other conditions.
How to Find a Panel Physician
You must use a physician designated by IRCC. You cannot use your family doctor. Find designated panel physicians at the IRCC website by searching for panel physicians in your country or city. In Canada, physicians are located in all major cities. Internationally, they are in most countries.
Medical Exam Costs
The cost of the immigration medical exam is paid directly to the panel physician and is not included in IRCC application fees. Fees vary significantly by country and physician. In Canada, typical costs range from $200 to $450 per adult. Additional fees apply for blood tests and X-rays. In some countries fees can be as low as $50 USD. Always confirm fees when booking your appointment.
How Long Is the Medical Exam Valid?
Immigration medical exams are typically valid for 12 months. If your permanent residence application is not finalized within 12 months of your medical exam you may need to undergo a new exam. Check your specific situation with IRCC if you are concerned about timing.
Preparation tip: Bring your passport, any vaccination records, a list of all current medications, and records of any previous surgeries or major illnesses to your medical appointment. Complete medical disclosure is essential. Withholding health information is a serious immigration offence.
Medical Inadmissibility
IRCC may find an applicant medically inadmissible if their condition poses a danger to public health, poses a danger to public safety, or might reasonably be expected to cause excessive demand on health or social services. If found inadmissible you have the right to respond with a medical opinion or a mitigation plan before a final decision is made.
Written and reviewed by the GuideCAN Editorial Team
Editorially reviewed against IRCC guidance. This article is general information, not immigration or legal advice.
Official sources
Official rules, fees, deadlines and program availability can change. Confirm the current details before acting.