Why the Immigration Medical Exam Matters
Whether you’re applying for a Canadian Visa, permanent residence, or a certain work or study permit, completing an Immigration Medical Exam (IME) is an important step in the process. While it's a routine requirement, many applicants are unsure about what actually happens during their appointment and how to prepare. One of the requirements many applicants encounter is having to undergo a medical exam to ensure they do not pose a risk to public health or place excessive strain on the healthcare system. The exam must be completed by an IRCC-approved panel Physician.
Your Pre-Exam Checklist: Documents and Essentials
Preparing your documents ahead of time is going to ensure a smoother experience. Below, we highlight exactly what you’ll need to bring along with you:
Mandatory Documents
- Valid passport (preferred) or government-issued photo ID
- IMM 1017 form (if IRCC sent you one for an upfront or requested exam)
- Appointment confirmation (if provided by the clinic)
Medical & Personal Items
- Eyeglasses or contact lenses (if you use them)
- List of current medications (include dosage and purpose)
- Relevant medical reports or history (especially for chronic conditions or past surgeries)
- Vaccination records (if available)
It is important to mention that some clinics may request passport-sized photos, though many now take digital photos. Be vigilant of any requests from the clinic. Ensure payment is available when at your appointment if the clinic requires an upfront cost. (IME fees are not covered by IRCC), and responsibility solely remains on the applicant.
What Happens During the Exam
The immigration medical exam is non-invasive and straightforward, and it includes four main focus areas.
Physical Examination
A physician will perform a general physical check. This will include measuring your height, weight, checking your blood pressure, and listening to your heart and lungs. They will also review your medical history and ask any questions related to past illnesses or surgeries, mental health, and lifestyle habits.
Vision and Hearing Check
A basic eye examination will take place, especially important if you currently wear glasses or contact lenses, along with a simple hearing assessment. This part of the exam is quick and helps identify any functional concerns.
Laboratory Tests
Most, if not all, applicants are required to complete a blood and urine test. This will help screen for certain conditions, including infectious diseases and indicators of overall health.
Chest X-ray
A chest X-ray is normally required for applications over the age of 11, commonly to screen for tuberculosis (TB). If you are pregnant, it is recommended to inform the clinic in advance so that alternative arrangements can be made.
How Long Does the Exam Take?
It is estimated that most immigration medical exams take approximately 60 to 90 minutes to complete. The exact duration can vary depending on numerous factors, such as the clinic's workload, whether all tests are conducted on-site or at a different location, and your individual medical history.
It's good practice to arrive at least 15 minutes early for your appointment to ensure extra time for any additional forms that require your attention.
Do You Need to Fast?
It is not necessary or required to fast for the Canadian immigration medical exam. You can eat and drink normally before your appointment unless the clinic specifically instructs otherwise. Staying hydrated can actually make blood and urine tests easier.
From Exam to Results: What Happens Next
After completion of your exam, the clinic will submit your results on your behalf electronically to IRCC through the eMedical system. Typically, confirmation is received, or an information sheet as proof of your exam is provided. It is not necessary to send your medical results yourself.
Processing times can vary depending on your application type and country of residence. Commonly, most cases are reviewed within a few weeks. In some situations, IRCC may request additional information before making a decision. This can include:
- Additional tests
- Specialist reports
- Clarification on existing medical conditions
If this happens, it doesn’t automatically mean there’s a problem with your application. These follow-ups are often routine and simply help IRCC complete their assessment.
Vaccinations: What You Should Know
While it is not a requirement to have any vaccinations, your immigration pathway may involve immunization requirements, especially for permanent residence.
We recommend reviewing our full guide on Vaccination requirements to understand what may apply to your current circumstances.
