If you’re applying for Canadian Permanent Residence (PR) through Express Entry, you’ll need to complete an Immigration Medical Exam (IME)—a key step in your application process. As of August 21, 2025, IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada) now requires an upfront medical exam for Express Entry applicants, unless you qualify for specific exemptions.
To help you prepare, we’ve compiled the most frequently asked questions about IMEs, costs, validity, and what to expect during the process. Plus, discover how ICC Immigration can help make your PR journey smooth and stress-free.
1. Do I need a medical exam for Express Entry PR?
Yes. IRCC requires a medical exam to ensure you don’t pose a risk to public health or safety and that your medical condition won’t cause excessive demand on Canada’s healthcare system.
You may be exempt from a new exam if:
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You already live in Canada,
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You completed an IME within the last five years, and
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Your previous IME indicated low or no risk to public health.
2. What if I have a medical condition?
Having a medical condition doesn’t always mean refusal. IRCC checks if your condition:
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Endangers public health or safety, or
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Exceeds the Excessive Demand Cost Threshold, set at $135,810 over 5 years (or $27,162 annually for 2025).
Conditions like tuberculosis may require medical surveillance, but most conditions don’t result in automatic refusal.
3. Who can do the immigration medical exam?
Only IRCC-approved panel physicians can perform an IME. Your family doctor cannot do it.
Find an authorized panel physician here:
👉 IRCC Panel Physician List
4. How much does an immigration medical exam cost?
Costs depend on age, location, and additional tests, but in Canada you can expect:
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Children (0-14 years): CAD $140–$150
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Adults (15-74 years): CAD $170–$180
Extra costs may apply for:
✔ X-rays
✔ Lab tests
✔ Vaccinations
✔ Specialist consultations
5. What documents should I bring?
Bring these for your IME:
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Passport or government-issued ID
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Medical report form (IMM 1017E or IMM 1020E if IRCC sent you one)
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4 passport photos (if clinic doesn’t use eMedical)
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Medical history, medication list, and vaccination records
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Eyeglasses or contacts (if applicable)
6. What happens during the exam?
A standard medical exam usually includes:
✔ Identity verification & photo
✔ Medical history questionnaire
✔ Physical check-up (height, weight, vision, heart, lungs, abdomen, skin)
✔ Additional tests (blood, urine, chest X-ray if required)
Vaccination records are optional, but bringing them helps. Genital and rectal exams are not required.
7. How long does it take?
The exam typically takes 30 minutes to a few hours, depending on additional tests. Panel physicians usually upload results to IRCC within 10 days via the eMedical system.
8. Can I get a copy of my medical results?
Yes, you can request a copy from the clinic, but IRCC does not send confirmation after receiving results. You can check updates in your Express Entry PR application portal.
9. How do I attach my IME to my PR application?
After completing your IME, you’ll receive:
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Information printout sheet, or
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IMM 1017B Upfront Medical Report form
Upload one of these documents in the medical section of your online PR application.
10. How long is my medical exam valid?
IME results are valid for 12 months. If they expire before IRCC makes a decision, you’ll need to take another exam.
✅ Resources for Your Immigration Medical Exam
How ICC Immigration Can Help You Secure Your Future in Canada
At ICC Immigration, we understand that the Express Entry process can be complex—especially when it comes to meeting medical and other eligibility requirements. Our team offers:
✔ Permanent Residency Applications – Streamlined support for Express Entry, PNPs, and other pathways.
✔ Work & Study Permits – Temporary options leading to PR.
✔ Family Sponsorships – Helping you reunite with loved ones in Canada.
✔ Expert Legal Guidance – Ensuring your application complies with IRCC regulations.
Don’t rely on uncertain asylum routes. Choose a secure, legal pathway to Permanent Residency in Canada. Our experts are here to guide you every step of the way—from your medical exam requirements to your final PR approval.
📞 Contact ICC Immigration today and take the first step toward a stable, successful future in Canada.