No Upfront Medical Exams for Canada PR Applications

The Canadian immigration authorities have introduced significant changes to the medical examination requirements, effective from October 1, 2023; for immigrants applying through various immigration programs, including Express Entry. These changes are designed to provide a more flexible approach, simplify the application process, and reduce unnecessary upfront costs. Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has released updated guidelines to achieve these goals, ensuring a smoother experience for both applicants and officers.

The Updated Medical Examination Process

Previously, individuals seeking permanent residency in Canada had to undergo for an upfront medical examination, known as the Immigration Medical Examination (IME). This examination was mandatory for all applicants and had to be completed before submitting their application.

However, under the new guidelines, Express Entry applicants and others applying for permanent residency are no longer required to complete the IME upfront. Instead, applicants will wait until they receive a specific request from the Canadian case processing officer to undergo the examination.

What Applicants Need to Know?

• Wait for Instructions: Applicants should refrain from undergoing the Immigration Medical Examination (IME) upfront. Instead, they should patiently wait for instructions from the Canadian case processing officer.
• Be Responsive: Applicants should be prepared to respond promptly to any requests for additional documentation, including the IME, when requested. Timely submission of required documents is essential to avoid processing delays.

Who Can Issue Medical Instructions?

Visa officers, immigration officers, and border services officers are authorized to issue medical instructions.

Prior to Issuing Instructions:

Before issuing any instructions, officers are required to perform an integrated search to confirm the existence of a valid Immigration Medical Examination (IME) or an IME that may be eligible under a temporary public policy.

Upfront Medical Examination Option:

Clients also have the option to pursue an upfront medical examination before submitting their application. This is mandatory for certain categories.

During the immigration medical examination, the panel physician will select the appropriate immigration category. Depending on whether the panel physician submits the medical files on paper or electronically (eMedical), the applicant will receive a proof of completion of the upfront medical examination:

• For paper submissions: The first page of the IMM 1017B-Upfront (“copy to client”).
• For electronic submissions: A printout from eMedical entitled “Up-front medical notification.”

Applicants must attach this proof of upfront medical examination to their application before submitting it to their chosen visa office.

Conclusion

The recent changes to Canada’s immigration medical examination requirements represent a more adaptable and cost-effective approach for applicants. By eliminating the upfront medical examination requirement, the Canadian immigration system aims to enhance the overall experience for prospective immigrants. However, applicants must follow instructions carefully to ensure a smooth and successful immigration process.

Feel free to contact us for answers to your questions. You can contact our expert at +91-8595010514 or send an email to info@peerlessimmigration.com