Canada Immigration Medical Exams

Who Needs to Do an Immigration Medical Exam?

Immigration medical exams are required for certain people applying to come to Canada, depending on how long they plan to stay and what kind of work they’ll be doing.

People applying for permanent residence need to complete a medical exam after submitting their application. As of October 1, 2023, this is no longer something Express Entry applicants do before applying — they wait until IRCC asks them to complete it.

Some temporary residents also need the exam. This includes those who want to stay in Canada for more than six months and are working in jobs that involve close contact with people. That could mean healthcare, child care, elder care, or even lab work that handles human samples.

Applicants for the super visa — typically parents or grandparents of Canadian citizens or permanent residents — also need a medical exam. And if you’ve spent six or more months in a country with higher rates of certain health conditions within the past year, IRCC may ask for a medical even if you’re only coming temporarily.

If you’re not sure, wait for instructions from IRCC. They’ll tell you if and when it’s needed.

How Much Does an Immigration Medical Exam Cost?

There’s no fixed price. Doctors set their own fees, and they vary by country, clinic, and the services required. You’ll usually be paying for the appointment, any lab tests, and an X-ray if one is needed. If the doctor refers you to a specialist for further testing, those costs are separate.

Vaccines offered during the visit might come with additional charges, though some groups — such as refugee claimants — might not have to pay.

On average, people can expect to pay a few hundred dollars in their local currency.

What Medical Tests Are Done for Canada Immigration Medical Exams?

The medical exam follows a standard format set by IRCC. It isn’t optional for those who are told to complete it, and only doctors approved by IRCC — called “panel physicians” — can perform it.

Here’s what typically happens during the exam:

1. Medical History

Before anything physical is done, the panel physician will ask about your past and present health. This helps identify any conditions that could impact your admissibility or need further follow-up. Being honest and specific is key to avoiding delays later.

You may be asked about:

• Long-term or chronic illnesses (e.g., diabetes, heart disease, asthma)
• Previous surgeries or hospitalizations
• Prescription medications and supplements
• Family history of hereditary diseases
• Infectious diseases you’ve had in the past (e.g., hepatitis, tuberculosis)
• Past treatments for mental health or substance use
• Known allergies or reactions to medication

Bring records or test results if you’ve been diagnosed with a serious or ongoing medical condition.

2. Physical Examination

This is a general physical check-up, done to assess your overall health. It helps IRCC identify any visible or reported issues that may affect public health or put a burden on Canada’s healthcare system. It does not involve invasive procedures.

During the physical exam, the doctor will typically:

• Measure height and weight
• Check blood pressure and pulse
• Test hearing and vision
• Listen to the heart and lungs with a stethoscope
• Feel the abdomen to check for abnormalities
• Observe mobility in joints and limbs
• Inspect the skin for rashes, lesions, or signs of infection

You’ll stay clothed except when specific areas need to be examined. Children may receive slightly different checks depending on age.

3. Blood Tests

Blood tests are a required part of the immigration medical exam for most adult applicants and some children, depending on their age. The purpose is to screen for communicable diseases and assess basic health indicators.

Typically, the blood test will check for:

• Syphilis – a standard test for all adults (and some minors)
• HIV (in some cases) – this depends on the program stream and risk assessment
• Tuberculosis (TB) – via IGRA (Interferon Gamma Release Assay) if chest X-ray is inconclusive or if required by IRCC
• Other markers, like white cell counts, may be reviewed based on the physician’s discretion

Fasting is usually not required unless you’re asked for additional metabolic screening. Bring any prior test results if you’ve had treatment for related conditions.

4. Chest X-Ray

A chest X-ray is used to detect signs of pulmonary tuberculosis and is mandatory for most applicants aged 11 or older. Even if you feel well, TB can exist without symptoms, so imaging helps rule it out.

Details about the chest X-ray:

• Required for all applicants aged 11 years and older
• May be needed for younger children if they’ve had contact with someone with TB or show symptoms
• Conducted at the panel physician’s clinic or at an approved imaging center
• Results are sent electronically to IRCC, not given directly to the applicant
• If abnormalities are seen, you may be referred for a sputum test or further diagnostic imaging

You will be asked to remove clothing above the waist and wear a gown during the procedure. Pregnant applicants should inform the physician in advance.

5. Urine Tests

A urine test is often part of the standard medical exam, particularly for adult applicants. It provides a quick overview of kidney health and can also identify infections or signs of other underlying medical issues.

What the urine test usually checks for:

• Protein levels, which can indicate kidney or cardiovascular problems
• Glucose – high levels may suggest diabetes or pre-diabetes
• Red or white blood cells could point to infection or inflammation
• Bacteria may suggest a urinary tract infection
• Other irregularities based on individual health history

The sample is collected during the appointment or immediately after, and you’ll receive instructions from the clinic staff on how to submit it properly.

6. Immunization Records

IRCC does not currently require applicants to be fully vaccinated, but panel physicians will ask for immunization records and may document them if you agree. Bringing this information helps complete your medical file and is especially helpful for children or healthcare-related work permits.

You should bring records of the following vaccines, if available:

• Measles, mumps, rubella (MMR)
• Tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis (Tdap)
• Hepatitis B
• Polio
• Varicella (chickenpox)
• Influenza (seasonal, especially for vulnerable groups)
• COVID‑19 (if applicable and available)

7. Mental Health Assessment

Mental health is part of the medical screening process, but it isn’t tested through a formal psychiatric evaluation. Instead, the doctor looks for any signs of conditions that could pose a risk to others or require significant health services in Canada.

The panel physician may:

• Ask about past mental health diagnoses (e.g., depression, bipolar disorder, schizophrenia)
• Review any hospitalizations for psychiatric care
• Observe mood, behavior, and communication during the appointment
• Ask about medications for mental health treatment
• Note any history of substance use disorders

Having a condition like anxiety or depression does not automatically result in inadmissibility. Only cases that may pose a public safety concern or demand excessive health services are reviewed further by IRCC.

How Long Are Immigration Medical Exam Results Valid For?

Once you complete your medical exam, the results are valid for 12 months.

This means that if you don’t land in Canada within that time frame, you may have to do the exam again. The date on your medical certificate or IRCC confirmation letter will show when the year starts.

Some people don’t need to repeat the exam if they’ve had one in the last five years and IRCC considers them low-risk. This typically applies to people already living in Canada and applying for another permit or permanent residence.

What Is the Next Step After the Medical Test?

Once your exam is done, the doctor or clinic sends the results to IRCC.

You’ll be given a document showing that you’ve completed the exam. Hold onto it in case IRCC asks for a copy.

If everything looks fine, you won’t hear much — your file will move forward. If IRCC needs more information or follow-up tests, they’ll contact you. In cases involving TB or other public health concerns, treatment might be required before a decision is made.

When your medical check is complete and accepted, the next steps depend on your immigration stream. If you’re waiting for a work or study permit, final decisions will follow. If you’re applying for permanent residence, you’ll move on to the remaining parts of the process.