Canada’s immigration department, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), will indeed require upfront medical exams for Express Entry applicants starting August 21, 2025. This means that individuals applying for permanent residence through Express Entry must undergo a medical examination before submitting their application.
What You Need to Know?
– Upfront Medical Exam Requirement: As of August 21, 2025, Express Entry applicants will need to complete an Immigration Medical Examination (IME) conducted by a panel physician before applying for permanent residence.
– Applicants Affected: This new requirement applies to applications submitted on or after August 21, 2025. Earlier submissions will follow the current process.
– Previous IME: If you’ve completed an IME within the last 5 years, you may still need to undergo another exam or provide your IME number for review.
– Medical Exam Validity: Medical exam results are typically valid for 12 months.
Preparing for the Medical Exam
– Find a panel physician authorized by IRCC.
– Gather required documents, including valid identification, medical reports, and test results.
– Be prepared for a physical examination, medical history questionnaire, and potential additional tests