Canada Relaxes Medical Exam Rules for Certain Foreign Nationals

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended a temporary public policy that exempts certain low-risk, in-Canada foreign nationals from needing an additional immigration medical examination (IME) as part of their application.

This measure supports faster processing of applications and improves client service for eligible foreign nationals. In its initial 2 years, this temporary public policy has benefited more than 286,000 clients. Extending it until October 5, 2029, will provide additional time to continue to assess the operational results, and to work with the Public Health Agency of Canada to monitor public health considerations.

This exemption applies to foreign nationals who have

• a new or pending application for permanent or temporary residence or a permanent resident visa made from within Canada
• completed an IME within the last 5 years (which may now be expired) and has posed no risk to public health or safety, or has reported to public health authorities for monitoring, as required

Applicants who are not eligible under this temporary public policy are required to undergo an IME as per usual health screening procedures. IRCC will contact individuals who are not eligible for the exemption to discuss next steps.

Source: Government of Canada press release.