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Effective August 21, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced new requirements for immigration medical exams and biometrics for permanent residency applicants. These changes aim to streamline the application process and enhance public health and safety measures.
Upfront Medical Exam Requirement for Express Entry Applicants
Under the new rules, Express Entry applicants must now complete an upfront Immigration Medical Exam (IME) before submitting their application. This change reverses the previous policy that allowed applicants to submit their application first and complete the medical exam later. Applicants are required to contact a panel physician directly to schedule the medical exam and upload proof in the Express Entry Profile Builder when submitting their permanent residence application.
Exemptions for Applicants in Canada
IRCC has extended a temporary public policy exempting certain foreign nationals in Canada from the immigration medical examination requirement until October 5, 2029. To qualify for this exemption, applicants must meet the following conditions:
- Applied or are applying for either permanent residence or temporary residence
- Already live in Canada
- Completed a previous IME in the last 5 years
- Previous IME indicated a low risk or no risk to public health or public safety
If these conditions are met, applicants can include their IME number in their current application. If the results cannot be used, IRCC will issue new instructions.
Biometrics Collection for Permanent Residency Applicants
Biometrics, including fingerprints and a photograph, are required for all permanent residency applications. This requirement applies to applicants aged 14 to 79, with certain exemptions. Biometrics are used to confirm identity and assess the application. Applicants are required to provide biometrics at an approved collection point after receiving instructions from IRCC.
Processing Times and Validity
Medical exam results are valid for 12 months only. If applicants do not come to Canada as permanent residents within that time, they may need to have another exam. Biometrics are valid for 10 years, and applicants may not need to provide them again if they have already submitted them for a previous application.
These new rules for immigration medical exams and biometrics are part of Canada's efforts to streamline the permanent residency application process and enhance public health and safety measures. Applicants are advised to stay informed about these changes and ensure they meet all requirements to avoid delays in their application process.
FAQs
Do I Need to Complete a Medical Exam Before Submitting my Express Entry Application?
Yes, as of August 21, 2025, Express Entry applicants must complete an upfront Immigration Medical Exam (IME) before submitting their application. Proof of the medical exam must be uploaded in the Express Entry Profile Builder.
Am I Exempt From the Medical Exam Requirement if I am Already in Canada?
Possibly. If you have already completed a medical exam within the last 5 years and it indicated a low risk or no risk to public health or safety, you may be exempt. Include your IME number in your current application, and IRCC will determine if the results can be used.
How Long Are Medical Exam Results Valid?
Medical exam results are valid for 12 months. If you do not come to Canada as a permanent resident within that time, you may need to have another exam.
