How to Prepare for Your Canadian Immigration Medical Exam

If you’re applying to move to Canada, the Canadian Immigration Medical Exam is a mandatory step in your journey. This exam ensures that newcomers do not pose a public health risk and that Canada’s healthcare system remains sustainable. Whether you’re applying for permanent residency, a work or study permit, or arriving as a refugee, completing this exam correctly and on time is essential to avoid delays in your immigration process.

What is the Canadian Immigration Medical Exam?

The Canadian Immigration Medical Exam is a health assessment required by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). Its purpose is to identify conditions that could impact public safety or result in excessive demand on healthcare services.

The exam usually includes:

• A physical check-up.

• Blood tests.

• A chest X-ray to screen for infectious diseases such as tuberculosis.

Only IRCC-approved panel physicians can conduct this exam. Your regular family doctor cannot perform it.

Who Needs to Take the Exam?

Not everyone applying to Canada needs the medical exam, but it is required in several cases, including:

• Permanent residency applicants.

• Work or study permit applicants staying for more than six months from certain countries.

• Refugees and refugee claimants.

• Family sponsorship applicants if they are joining loved ones in Canada.

If you’re unsure whether you need the exam, IRCC’s website provides clear guidance, or you can ask your immigration consultant or lawyer.

How to Book Your Canadian Immigration Medical Exam

To get started, you’ll need to find an IRCC-approved panel physician. The list of approved doctors and clinics is available on the official IRCC website.

Booking tips:

• Schedule your appointment early to avoid delays in your application.

• Confirm clinic availability since some locations may have long wait times.

• Remember that you cannot use your regular family doctor; only IRCC designated panel physicians are accepted.

What to Bring to the Exam

Preparation is key to a smooth process. Be sure to bring:

• A valid passport or government-issued ID.

• The IMM 1017 medical form (if provided by IRCC).

• Four recent passport-size photos (if the clinic does not use eMedical).

• Glasses or contact lenses, if applicable.

• A list of prescriptions and your medical history.

• Proof of payment if the clinic requires fees upfront.

What to Expect During the Exam

The exam is straightforward and usually takes one to two hours. You can expect:

1. Identity verification with your passport or ID.

2. Medical history review with questions about your health background.

3. Physical exam.

4. Laboratory tests (blood tests).

5. Chest X-ray for screening purposes.

Once complete, the clinic will submit your results electronically to IRCC.

Tips to Prepare for Your Canadian Immigration Medical Exam

• Stay well-rested and hydrated before your appointment.

• Organize your documents ahead of time to prevent missing paperwork.

• Be honest about past or current health issues, hiding conditions may cause complications later.

• Arrive early to your appointment to reduce stress and ensure a smoother process.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Booking at a non-approved clinic (results won’t be accepted).

• Forgetting required documents like your passport or IMM form.

• Not disclosing health conditions or medications.

• Waiting too long to schedule, which can delay your immigration application.

After the Exam: What Happens Next?

Once completed, your results are sent directly to IRCC. Processing times vary but usually take a few weeks.

In some cases, IRCC may request additional tests or specialist evaluations. If that happens, follow instructions quickly to prevent delays.

FAQs About the Canadian Immigration Medical Exam

How much does it cost?

Fees vary by clinic but usually range from CAD $200–$400 per person.

How long are results valid for ?

Results are typically valid for 12 months. If your application takes longer, you may need to repeat the exam.

Can the exam affect your immigration status?

Yes, in rare cases. Conditions that pose a public health risk or require extensive medical resources could impact eligibility.

A Stress-Free Path to Immigration Success

Preparing well for your Canadian Immigration Medical Exam is one of the best ways to avoid delays in your immigration process. By booking early, gathering the right documents, and choosing an IRCC-approved panel physician, you can make the experience smooth and stress-free. With preparation and honesty, your exam will be just another milestone on your journey to Canada.