Medical examination for immigration to Canada
If you're planning to immigrate to Canada, either temporarily or permanently, you'll need to undergo a medical examination.
If you're applying for permanent or temporary residence and plan to stay in Canada for more than 6 months, you'll need to undergo a medical exam. Regardless of the length of stay, a medical examination is required for those planning to work in healthcare or education in Canada.
When applying for permanent residence, all dependent family members must also undergo a medical exam (even if they're not immigrating with you); otherwise, you won't receive resident status.
When to undergo the medical exam
The timing of your medical exam depends on the immigration program you're applying for.
For example, if you're applying through the Express Entry system, immigration authorities will contact you and send instructions about the medical exam; you don't need to do it until then.
If you're applying for refugee status at the border, the border officer will tell you to undergo a medical examination within 30 days.
For tourist, work, or study visa applications, you have two options: you can undergo the medical exam either before or after submitting your application.
Where to undergo the medical exam
You can't undergo the medical exam for Canadian immigration with any doctor. You must see one of the panel physicians authorized by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC).
You can find a doctor for your medical exam on the government website. Select your country, then choose a city and facility.
You can register for the medical exam by phone. In some cities, due to long queues, it's best to book at least a month in advance.
Medical exam fees
The cost of the medical exam depends on the facility, your age (children undergo fewer tests), health condition, and other factors.
The applicant must pay the full cost of the medical exam, including any special tests, medications (if required), visits to specialists, and desired vaccinations. If your application is rejected by immigration authorities, the cost of the medical exam is non-refundable. Asylum seekers and refugees may be exempt from payment.
To find out the exact cost of the medical exam, contact the relevant facility.
What to bring to the medical exam
The list of required documents varies by country. You can confirm this during registration. Generally, you'll need:
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