Medical Exam Requirements for Asylum Seekers in Canada

Starting the asylum process in Canada involves several important steps. One of the first requirements for refugee claimants is completing a medical exam. While it might feel like another formality, it plays a key role in how your application is processed by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). If you're applying from Ottawa and need guidance, we have created this guide to walk you through everything you need to know about the immigration medical exam in Ottawa, from why it’s required to what happens afterward. Let’s discuss.

Why Asylum Seekers Need a Medical Exam

The immigration medical exam is required by IRCC for all asylum seekers and refugee claimants in Canada. It helps ensure public health and safety, as well as assess any medical conditions that may require further attention or support.

This step applies to:

• Anyone making a refugee claim in Canada

• Protected persons applying for permanent residence

• Family members included in the application

The medical exam is typically completed early in the process, often within 30 days of submitting your claim. Delaying the exam can hold up your application, so it’s best to schedule it as soon as possible once you’re eligible.

What the Immigration Medical Exam Includes

The medical exam is designed to be simple and straightforward. It’s not going to be a judgment on your health, and it doesn’t “fail” you. Instead, it helps the government understand any public health concerns.

Here’s what the exam usually includes:

• Physical check-up: A general exam to assess your overall health (heart, lungs, vision, etc.)

• Chest X-ray: Required for anyone aged 11 or older

• Blood tests: Usually required for people aged 15 or older.

• Mental health review: A conversation about any medications or conditions related to emotional well-being

The exam is based on your age and health history. Young children will usually undergo fewer tests.

Who Can Perform the Exam in Ottawa

The exam must be done by an IRCC-approved panel physician—a specially trained medical professional authorized to conduct immigration exams. Regular doctors or walk-in clinics are not eligible to perform this exam.

At Ottawa Immigration Clinic, our certified panel physicians are recognized by IRCC and experienced in working with newcomers and refugee claimants. We understand that asylum seekers may be dealing with stress, uncertainty, or trauma, and we take extra care to ensure a respectful, safe, and supportive environment for every patient.

Choosing an authorized provider means your medical exam in Ottawa will be valid, complete, and submitted correctly, avoiding unnecessary delays.

What to Bring and How to Prepare

To make your visit as smooth as possible, be sure to bring the following to your appointment:

• Government-issued ID (passport, refugee claimant document, or any other valid ID)

• IRCC correspondence (letters that include your UCI number, if you’ve received one)

• A list of current medications

• Any relevant medical records, especially if you have existing conditions

• Eyeglasses or contact lenses, if you use them

• Passport-size photos, if requested by the clinic (some clinics take them onsite)

There’s no need to fast before the exam unless told otherwise. Just arrive on time, well-rested, and ready to go through the process step by step.

What Happens After the Exam

Once your exam is complete, the results will be sent electronically to IRCC  by the panel physician. You won’t need to mail anything yourself.

There’s no “pass” or “fail” outcome. The purpose is to flag any medical conditions that may require further testing or long-term care planning. In some cases, IRCC may ask for additional tests or follow-up visits. If this happens, your clinic will contact you to explain the next steps.

You can also request a copy of your medical results for your own records, although the official report goes straight to the immigration office.

To Summarize

Getting a medical exam in Ottawa is a normal and expected part of the asylum process. It helps ensure your application keeps moving forward while allowing health officials to understand any support you might need.

At Ottawa Immigration Clinic, we provide professional and compassionate care for asylum seekers and refugee applicants. Our IRCC-certified panel physicians are here to make the medical exam process easy, respectful, and clear, because we know how important each step is in building a safer future.

If you or your family are starting the refugee process, we encourage you to book your immigration medical exam in Ottawa early to stay on track. Reach out to our team anytime. We’re here to help.