If you’re planning to apply for Permanent Residence through Express Entry, there’s an important update you need to know. Starting August 21, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will require all applicants to complete an upfront Immigration Medical Exam (IME) before submitting their application.
🔍 What Changed?
In the past, most Express Entry applicants submitted their PR applications first and then waited for IRCC instructions to complete their medical exams. This meant you had extra time to prepare.
Now, the medical exam is a mandatory first step for any application submitted on or after August 21, 2025.
đź“Ś Who Does This Affect?
- Affected: All Express Entry PR applicants submitting from Aug 21, 2025, onwards.
- Not affected:
- Applications submitted before this date.
- Non-Express Entry PR programs (PNPs outside EE, family sponsorship, AIP, etc.) — these still follow the previous process.
🩻 What’s Involved in the Immigration Medical Exam?
The IME must be done by an IRCC-approved panel physician—you cannot use your regular family doctor unless they are on the approved list.
The exam typically includes:
- Medical history review
- Full physical examination
- Chest X-ray (e.g., for tuberculosis)
- Blood and urine tests
- Mental health review
- Vaccination record check
💰 Typical cost: $140–$280 per person, plus any extra fees for specialist tests.
â™» Reusing a Previous IME
If you have completed a medical exam within the last 5 years in Canada (for study or work permit purposes), you may be able to reuse it. You’ll need your IME number or medical identifier to submit with your PR application. If IRCC finds it doesn’t meet requirements, they’ll instruct you to take a new exam.
âš Why This Matters
This change could impact your application timeline. Without an upfront IME, your application will not be considered complete, which could delay processing or lead to rejection.
đź’ˇ How Nohproblem Consulting Can Help
Our team can:
- Help you find IRCC-approved panel physicians near you.
- Advise you on what documents to bring and how to prepare.
- Guide you on reusing a previous IME to save time and money.
- Ensure your Express Entry application is error-free and fully compliant.
📞 Book your free 15-minute consultation now!—Contact Nohproblem Consulting today to prepare your medical exam and application the right way.
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