The express entry medical exam is a required step in Canada’s immigration process. If you are applying through Express Entry in 2027, you must complete an immigration medical exam (IME) before you receive permanent residency. This guide covers the costs, timeline, and exactly what to expect at each stage.
Who Needs to Complete the Express Entry Medical Exam in 2027
Almost every applicant who submits a permanent residency application through Express Entry must pass a medical exam. This includes applicants under the Federal Skilled Worker Program, the Canadian Experience Class, and the Federal Skilled Trades Program. Your spouse and dependent children must also complete the exam, even if they are not moving to Canada with you right away.
If you are pursuing a provincial nominee program stream that feeds into Express Entry, the same medical requirement applies. Check your nomination letter for confirmation.
How Much Does the Medical Exam Cost in 2027
The immigration medical exam fee is set by the panel physician, not by the Canadian government. Fees vary by country and clinic. Here are typical ranges for 2027:
- Nigeria and Ghana: CAD 150 to CAD 250 per adult
- India and Philippines: CAD 120 to CAD 220 per adult
- Kenya and South Africa: CAD 130 to CAD 240 per adult
- China: CAD 100 to CAD 200 per adult
- Children under 11 years old are generally charged lower fees, typically 30 to 50 percent of the adult rate.
You pay the panel physician directly. The Canadian government does not collect this fee. Budget for the full family if dependants are included in your application.
What Happens During the Exam
Step 1: Book an Appointment with a Panel Physician
You must visit a physician approved by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC). You can find a designated panel physician near you using the IRCC panel physician locator. Do not visit a random doctor. Only panel physicians can submit valid results to IRCC.
Step 2: Attend the Physical Examination
The exam includes a physical check-up, blood pressure measurement, and a review of your medical history. For applicants aged 11 and over, a urine test and chest X-ray are required. For applicants aged 15 and over, a blood test for syphilis is also required. Bring your passport and any previous medical records, including vaccination history.
Step 3: Results Are Sent Directly to IRCC
Your panel physician submits your results electronically to IRCC. You do not handle the paperwork. Results are valid for 12 months from the date of the exam. If your permanent residency application is not finalized within that window, you may need to repeat the exam.
Timeline: How Long Does It Take
Most panel physicians complete the exam and submit results within 5 to 10 business days. IRCC then reviews the results as part of your overall application. The full Express Entry processing time in 2027 is approximately 6 months for Comprehensive Ranking System draws, though this varies by profile and stream.
If you are also exploring a skilled worker visa in other countries, remember that each country has its own medical requirements. The Canadian IME is specific to Express Entry and does not transfer to a work permit application elsewhere.
Common Reasons for Medical Inadmissibility
IRCC can find you medically inadmissible if a condition is likely to cause excessive demand on Canada’s health or social services. Active tuberculosis is the most common reason for inadmissibility. Conditions that are controlled and stable are less likely to create issues, but every case is reviewed individually.
If you receive a finding of inadmissibility, you have the right to respond. Many applicants seek help from an immigration lawyer or immigration attorney at this stage to prepare a written response or humanitarian and compassionate grounds application.
“Applicants found medically inadmissible have 60 days to submit additional information or a response to IRCC after receiving a procedural fairness letter.” Source: Government of Canada, IRCC
Other Immigration Pathways to Consider
If your Express Entry score is low, you still have options. Many applicants look at visa sponsorship jobs and jobs with relocation package offers from Canadian employers. A valid job offer can add 50 to 200 points to your Comprehensive Ranking System score. Others explore the employer sponsored visa route or even investor visa and citizenship by investment programs in other countries while they build their Canadian profile.
If you are in the job search stage, practicing salary negotiation tips before accepting an offer can help you secure a role that also qualifies under Express Entry income thresholds. Also consider that a green card application in the United States follows a separate process with different medical requirements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I choose any doctor for my Express Entry medical exam?
No. You must visit a panel physician designated by IRCC. Results from any other doctor will not be accepted. Use the IRCC panel physician locator to find an approved clinic in your country.
How long are my medical exam results valid?
Your results are valid for 12 months from the date of the exam. If your permanent residency application is not approved within that period, you will need to redo the medical exam at your own cost.
Do I need to do the medical exam before or after I receive an Invitation to Apply?
You complete the medical exam after you receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) from IRCC. You have 60 days to submit your full permanent residency application after receiving the ITA, so book your exam as soon as possible after receiving it.
Apply directly through the official portal and consult a qualified immigration adviser if you need help.
Disclaimer: Information in this article is subject to change. Always confirm requirements on the official source before applying.
