New Medical Exam Rules for Express Entry PR Applications
Exciting changes are ahead for international job seekers applying for permanent residency in Canada through Express Entry. Starting on August 21, 2025, the Canadian immigration department will require applicants to complete their medical exams before submitting their applications. This is a crucial update for anyone eyeing a fresh start in Canada, and it’s important to understand how this new requirement could shape your process.
Previously, applicants would submit their applications and later receive instructions from Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) about the medical examination. Now, you’ll need to handle your medical exam beforehand. However, if you submit your application before the deadline, you won’t be impacted by this change.
Understanding Medical Admissibility
When applying for permanent residency, both the principal applicant and accompanying family members must be medically admissible. This means that they should not have health issues that may put undue demand on Canada’s health services—generally defined as costs exceeding three times the national average, which currently stands around $27,162 per year.
Conditions such as poorly managed chronic illnesses can lead to being deemed medically inadmissible. If you’re receiving treatment for conditions like diabetes and can demonstrate that they’re stable and controlled, it reduces the risk of complications in your application.
Additionally, applicants can be found medically inadmissible due to conditions that pose public health risks, such as certain infectious diseases.
Getting Your Immigration Medical Exam (IME)
For the upcoming change, your Immigration Medical Exam (IME) must be done with health providers approved by IRCC. To find one, simply check IRCC’s list of panel physicians. The typical cost for these exams varies between $140 to $280.
When you attend your IME, ensure you bring the following:
- Current medications you are taking
- Medical reports for previous or ongoing conditions
- Proof of vaccinations
- Identification, like your passport or national ID
- Four recent photographs
During your examination, you may undergo several tests, including:
- A review of your medical history and chronic conditions
- A full-body physical check-up
- X-rays (especially chest X-rays to rule out tuberculosis)
- Blood and urine tests
- Mental health assessments
- An immunization record check
This thorough approach ensures that you and your family can contribute healthfully to Canadian society. It’s also worth noting that these changes primarily affect those on the Express Entry pathway; other permanent residency applications won’t be impacted.
If you’re planning to move to Canada and are in search of job opportunities that offer visa sponsorship, check out our website, VisaJobsCanada.com. We focus exclusively on Canadian jobs that support international applicants like you, ensuring you’re well-equipped for your journey.
In summary, understanding your medical admissibility and preparing for the new IME process is essential for making your Canadian dream a reality. While these requirements may seem daunting, they ultimately ensure that you and your family can thrive in your new home.
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