New Express Entry Applicants No Longer Need Upfront Medical Exams
Upfront Medical Exams Removed for New Express Entry Applications
On October 1, 2023, IRCC introduced an important change to the medical exam requirement for Express Entry applicants.
Applicants who receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) no longer need to complete an upfront Immigration Medical Exam (IME) before submitting their application.
This update simplifies the process and reduces the pressure on applicants during the final submission stage.
However, it is still important to understand how the new system works.
Latest Update on Express Entry Medical Exams
As of October 1, 2023, Express Entry applicants and their dependent family members are no longer required to upload an upfront IME.
This means you can now submit your full application without completing the medical exam ahead of time.
How to Submit an Application Without an Upfront Medical Exam
Under the previous rules, applicants had to upload their upfront medical exam in the Profile Builder after receiving an ITA.
However, this requirement has been removed.
Here is how the updated process works:
1. If you have not completed the medical exam
You can upload a blank document in the IME upload section.
IRCC will review your application and notify you later if they need you to complete the exam.
This gives you more time and prevents delays caused by finding a panel physician during peak seasons.
2. If you already completed a medical exam
You can use your existing medical exam results for your Express Entry application.
You simply need to enter the IME or UMI number from your most recent exam.
This policy change replaces the July 2022 rule that made upfront IMEs mandatory.
Therefore, all new Express Entry applicants can follow this simplified process.
What Is an Immigration Medical Exam?
An Immigration Medical Exam is a health check required for people applying for Canadian permanent residency or temporary residency.
Panel physicians approved by IRCC conduct these exams to ensure applicants are medically admissible to Canada.
Types of Immigration Medical Exams in Canada
There are two main types:
1. Upfront Immigration Medical Exam
You complete this exam before submitting your application.
This option is useful for applicants who want to finish all requirements early.
2. Standard Immigration Medical Exam
You complete this exam after IRCC requests it.
Once you receive an IME letter, you must visit a panel physician for the assessment.
Some panel physicians may allow you to do an exam without an IME letter, making the “upfront exam” an equivalent option in many cases.
How SPS Canada Immigration Can Help
SPS Canada Immigration has over 22 years of experience guiding applicants through Canada’s immigration system.
We assist with all parts of the IME process, help ensure your application meets IRCC rules, and support you from start to finish.
If you have questions, we are here to help.
Visit www.spscanada.com to connect with our team and take the next step toward your Canadian future.
Your Canadian dream is achievable — and we are here to support you at every stage.
