Express Entry Medical Exam to Final Decision: 2027 Timeline

If you received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) through express entry Canada, you are already close to permanent residency. But the steps between your ITA and a final decision can feel unclear. This guide breaks down the exact timeline from medical exam to final decision in 2027, so you know what to expect at each stage.

What Happens After You Receive an ITA

After IRCC sends your ITA, you have 60 days to submit a complete permanent residency application. Missing this window cancels your invitation and returns you to the pool. Start your medical exam as early as possible because it is one of the slowest steps.

Step 1: Book Your Medical Exam

You must visit a Panel Physician approved by IRCC. In 2027, the exam fee ranges from CAD 200 to CAD 350 per adult, depending on your country of residence. Book your appointment within the first two weeks after receiving your ITA. Results are sent directly to IRCC by the physician and remain valid for 12 months.

Find an approved doctor through the official IRCC Panel Physician directory.

Step 2: Gather Supporting Documents

While waiting for your medical results, collect the following:

• Valid passport for you and any dependants
• Police clearance certificates from every country where you lived for 6 or more months after age 18
• Educational credential assessment (ECA) if not already submitted
• Employment records and reference letters
• Proof of funds showing at least CAD 14,690 for a single applicant in 2027

Step 3: Submit Your Complete Application

Upload all documents to your IRCC account before day 60. Incomplete applications are returned. Pay the CAD 1,365 right of permanent residence fee and the CAD 850 processing fee per principal applicant at this stage. Fees for dependants apply separately.

Express Entry Canada Timeline After Submission in 2027

IRCC targets a 6-month processing time for most express entry applications in 2027. Here is a realistic breakdown of the timeline after submission:

• Weeks 1 to 4: IRCC acknowledges receipt and begins biometrics verification
• Weeks 4 to 8: Application enters active review. Background and security checks begin
• Weeks 8 to 16: IRCC may request additional documents or an interview in some cases
• Weeks 16 to 24: Decision is made. You receive a Confirmation of Permanent Residence (COPR) or a rejection with reasons

If your application is linked to a provincial nominee program stream, processing can sometimes move faster because provinces pre-screen candidates before IRCC reviews them.

Employer Sponsorship and Work Permits During the Wait

If you are inside Canada on a work permit application, you may be eligible for a Bridging Open Work Permit (BOWP). This lets you keep working while IRCC processes your permanent residency application. Your employer does not need to submit a new employer sponsored visa application during this period. You can apply for the BOWP online through your IRCC account once your PR application is in progress.

If you are job hunting while waiting, look for visa sponsorship jobs and jobs with relocation package on government job boards in Canada. Negotiate your offer carefully. Using basic salary negotiation tips, such as anchoring your ask to the median wage for your role on the Government of Canada Job Bank, can increase your starting salary by 5 to 15 percent.

If your case is complex, for example if you have a criminal record, prior visa refusals, or you are exploring a skilled worker visa alongside a citizenship by investment route, speak to a licensed immigration lawyer or immigration attorney. An investor visa or alternative green card application may also be worth comparing if your timeline is urgent.

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.