Express Entry Applicants Face New Upfront Medical Exam Rule from August 21

A significant CHANGE is coming to Canada's immigration process, as Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced that upfront medical exams will soon be mandatory for Express Entry permanent residence (PR) applications. 

This policy will be effective on August 21, 2025, and it signals a pivotal change designed to accelerate and streamline how Canada processes new arrivals.

Quick Facts

What's Changing In The New Policy?

The aspiring immigrants under Express Entry previously needed to submit their PR applications, then wait for IRCC's instructions to complete a medical exam.

Starting August 21, 2025, all applicants—and their family members—must complete and upload proof of an Immigration Medical Exam (IME) before submitting their main application. This includes accompanying and non-accompanying dependents.

Applications filed before the August 21 cutoff follow the existing protocol: submit, then wait for IME instructions.

Who Needs to Comply? 

• All Express Entry applicants receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA) on or after August 21, 2025.
• All dependent family members listed in the application, regardless of whether they are immigrating.

Who's Exempt from the New Policy?

• Applicants who have completed an IRCC-approved IME within the past five years (e.g., for work or study permits).
• Must include their IME number or unique medical identifier with their PR application.
• If IRCC cannot reuse the prior results, further steps are required.

Who's Not Impacted?

• Non-Express Entry PR streams (Provincial Nominee Program applicants not aligned with Express Entry, family sponsorships, refugee applicants).
• PR applications submitted before August 21, 2025.

Immigration medical exams (IME)

An Immigration Medical Exam (IME) is a mandatory health assessment required for individuals applying to live, work, or study in Canada. Its purpose is to ensure that applicants do not present a public health risk or create undue pressure on Canada's healthcare and social service systems.

Step-by-Step Guide to Obtain Immigration Medical Exams (IME)

• Receive Your ITA: Only proceed once you are invited to apply for PR.
• Schedule an IME: Find an approved doctor in your region via the IRCC's official Panel Physician directory.
• Complete Your Exam: Attend the medical assessment. Bring ID, medical records, immunization history, and four current photos.
• Pay Fees: Pay your exam fees, it usually ranges from USD $140–$280 per person, sometimes $100–$500 depending on country and provider.
• Upload Proof: Submit your IME results with your application through the Express Entry Profile Builder.

What's Next After IME results?

• The panel physician sends IME results directly to IRCC.
• Applicants receive an IME number or unique medical identifier.
• For Express Entry PR applications starting August 21, 2025: Proof of completed IME (such as the IME number) must be uploaded with the application.
• If you had an IME in the past five years for a Canadian visa, you may reuse the results. IRCC will notify you if a new IME is needed.

An Immigration medical exam (IME) is a crucial step for all immigrants who wish to settle in Canada, ensuring health standards and smooth entry into the country. Avoid unnecessary delays by booking your medical exam with an approved panel doctor, keeping all your paperwork in order, and following IRCC’s instructions closely when sending your proof.

Canada Speeds Up Immigration with Early Medical Checks in 2025

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has adjusted the timing of medical exams for Express Entry applicants, making THE IMMIGRATION PROCESS faster, smoother, and more reliable.

IRCC now wants applicants to complete their medical exams before they submit their applications. They want to identify any medical issues early, reduce last-minute delays, and give immigration officers the information they need sooner.

By moving health checks to the very start, IRCC expects to cut down on delays, make greater use of automated systems, and speed up decision‑making. Most importantly, it ensures that Canada's immigration system continues to protect public health by confirming that applicants meet the country's medical admissibility standards well before they arrive.

Keep following our blog and updates for the latest news, helpful tips, and expert insights on Canada's immigration changes and requirements.

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