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FAQs on Medical Exams for Express Entry PR Applicants

August 31, 2025

FAQs on Medical Exams for Express Entry PR Applicants

As of August 21, 2025, anyone applying for permanent residence (PR) through Express Entry must complete an upfront Immigration Medical Exam (IME) as part of a complete application—unless they qualify for certain exemptions.

Since medical exams are one of the most common areas of confusion, we’ve put together answers to the top 10 frequently asked questions (FAQs) about IMEs for Canadian PR applicants.

1. Who Is Exempt from Doing an IME?

You may not need a new IME if all of the following apply:

  • You are already living in Canada;
  • You completed an IME within the last five years; and
  • Your previous IME showed that you were low or no risk to public health and safety.

2. What If I Have a Medical Condition—Can I Still Be Approved?

It depends on whether your condition:

  • Poses a risk to public health or safety, or
  • Causes excessive demand on Canada’s health and social services.

For 2025, IRCC defines excessive demand as medical and social service costs exceeding CAD $135,810 over 5 years (about $27,162 per year).

Many conditions do not automatically result in refusal. In some cases, applicants may simply be placed under medical surveillance (e.g., follow-up for tuberculosis).

3. Who Can Perform the Exam? Can My Family Doctor Do It?

No. Only IRCC-approved panel physicians are authorized to conduct IMEs.
You must choose a doctor from IRCC’s official list of panel physicians.

4. How Much Does an IME Cost in Canada?

Costs vary by clinic and location. On average:

  • Children (0–14 years): CAD $140–150
  • Applicants (15–74 years): CAD $170–180

You must pay for:

  • The doctor’s exam fee,
  • Laboratory and X-ray tests, and
  • Any specialist consultations if required.

Vaccinations may involve additional costs.

5. What Documents Do I Need to Bring?

Prepare these items before your exam:

  • Valid passport or government-issued ID
  • Medical Report form (if provided by IRCC)
  • 4 passport photos (if the clinic does not use eMedical)
  • Glasses or contact lenses (if applicable)
  • Medical history, ongoing condition reports, and current medications
  • Vaccination records (recommended, including COVID-19)

6. What Happens During the Medical Exam?

There are two kinds of IMEs: Standard Medical Exam and Streamlined Medical Exam.

Standard Medical Exam includes:

  • Identity verification and photo
  • Medical history questionnaire
  • Physical exam (height, weight, vision, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin, movement)
  • Additional tests like chest X-ray, blood/urine tests if required
  • Optional vaccinations

Streamlined Medical Exam includes:

  • Identity verification and photo
  • Medical history questionnaire
  • Routine screenings (X-ray, lab tests if required)

Under both types, you have the right to ask for a chaperone and pause the exam at any time to ask questions.

Afterward, the panel physician uploads your results directly to IRCC.

7. How Long Does the Exam and Processing Take?

  • The medical exam itself: 30 minutes to a few hours
  • Results upload: Usually within 10 days via eMedical
  • IRCC’s review: Depends on overall PR application processing times

8. Can I Get a Copy of My Results?

Yes, you can request a copy directly from the clinic.
However, note that once uploaded, your IME reports and X-rays become IRCC’s property and will not be returned.

IRCC will only contact you if they need additional medical details.

9. How Do I Attach My IME to My PR Application?

After completing your IME, the panel physician will give you:

  • An Information Printout Sheet; or
  • An IMM 1017B Upfront Medical Report form.

You must upload this document to your PR application portal.

10. How Long Are IME Results Valid?

Medical exam results are generally valid for 12 months.
If they expire before IRCC finalizes your application, you may be required to undergo another exam.

How MyWorld Immigration Can Help You

At MyWorld Immigration, we understand how overwhelming the Express Entry PR process can be—especially when medical exams and technical requirements come into play. Our consultants provide personalized guidance to ensure your application is accurate, complete, and submitted on time.

Our Services Include:

  • Express Entry & PR Applications – Complete guidance through IRCC requirements
  • Work & Study Permits – Helping you achieve your career and education goals in Canada
  • Family & Spousal Sponsorships – Bringing loved ones together in Canada
  • Visitor & Business Visas – Support for short-term travel and investment opportunities
  • RCIP & PNP Pathways – Tailored immigration strategies for skilled workers

Contact MyWorld Immigration today:

Office Address: Unit 3236, Cityscape Landing Plaza, 4310 104 Ave NE, Calgary, Albertainfo@myworldimmigration.com
Instagram: @myworldimmigration.

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