Medical examination for Canadian immigration: Process, Costs and Experience (Updated 2025)

Receiving an invitation for a medical examination for Canadian immigration is a very positive signal that your Canadian immigration or visa application is progressing well. However, to ensure the process goes smoothly, you need to understand the requirements, locations, costs, and preparations involved.

This guide, based on our years of experience at Yes Study, will walk you through the essential steps to ensure your medical results are valid and submitted correctly.

Why is a Medical Exam Required?

The Canadian government requires a medical exam for long-term visa applicants for three primary reasons:

• Public Health Protection: To ensure that immigrants do not bring dangerous, contagious diseases into Canada.
• Public Safety: To screen for conditions that could lead to unpredictable or dangerous behavior.
• Protecting Healthcare Systems: To screen for “excessive demand” on Canada’s public health and social services.

Who Must Undergo a Medical Exam?

According to IRCC regulations, the following individuals generally require a medical exam:

• Permanent Resident applicants and their accompanying family members.
• Applicants intending to stay in Canada for more than 6 months.
• Individuals working in fields like healthcare, education, or childcare, regardless of the length of their stay.

What Does the Medical Exam Include?

The exam is standardized and focuses on public health screening. It typically involves:

• Physical Examination: Checking height, weight, blood pressure, vision, and hearing.
• Chest X-ray: Mandatory for those aged 11 and older to screen for tuberculosis.
• Blood Tests: Mandatory for those aged 15 and older to screen for HIV and syphilis.
• Urine Tests: Mandatory for those aged 5 and older to check for underlying kidney or diabetic conditions.

The 4-Step Process

1. Receive the IMM 1017 E Form: Once your application reaches the medical stage, IRCC will send you the Medical Report form (IMM 1017 E). You must print this and bring it to your appointment.
2. Book an Appointment with a Panel Physician: You must use an IRCC-approved clinic. Check the official IRCC website for the list of authorized doctors in Vietnam.
3. Attend the Exam: Bring your original passport, the IMM 1017 E form, and 4×6 photos to the appointment.
4. Results Submission: The clinic will upload your results directly to IRCC via the eMedical system. You will not receive physical medical records to hand over yourself.

Addresses for IOM Clinics in Vietnam

In Vietnam, you must use the International Organization for Migration (IOM) clinics:

• Hanoi: 23rd Floor, Capital Tower, 109 Tran Hung Dao, Hoan Kiem District. (Tel: +84.24 3736 6258)
• Ho Chi Minh City: 1B Pham Ngoc Thach, Ben Nghe Ward, District 1. (Tel: +84.28 3822 2057)

Estimated Costs (USD)

Note: Please contact IOM directly to confirm current fees before your appointment.

Important Tips & FAQ

• Preparation: Drink plenty of water before your appointment. Do not consume alcohol for at least 24 hours prior. If you are pregnant, notify the physician; you may choose to defer the X-ray until after childbirth.
• Validity: Medical results are valid for 12 months from the date of the exam.
• What if I have a pre-existing condition? Hepatitis B or treated “old” TB usually do not result in a refusal, provided your health is stable. “Active” TB, however, must be treated before you are cleared.
• Timeline: After the clinic submits your results to IRCC, the visa processing continues. A passed medical exam is a major milestone, but it does not dictate the exact date your visa will be issued.

The immigration journey involves many complex steps, and Yes Study is here to support you at every milestone. Whether you are dealing with medical forms or final document checks, our experts provide the guidance you need to stay calm and prepared.

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