Introduction
Canada’s Express Entry system has been a beacon of hope for skilled workers around the world, offering them the opportunity to apply for permanent residency in the country. Since its inception in 2015, Express Entry has paved the way for countless individuals to fulfill their dreams of living and working in Canada. However, one of the prerequisites of this immigration pathway has been a medical examination, designed to ensure that applicants’ health does not jeopardize public health or overburden Canadian healthcare services.
Exciting news for prospective applicants: Starting October 1, 2023, Express Entry candidates will no longer be required to undergo a medical examination prior to submitting their applications. This significant change promises to streamline the application process and make it more accessible than ever before.
How it Works Now
Effective October 1, 2023, Express Entry applicants will no longer need to go through the cumbersome process of a medical examination before submitting their applications. Instead, they will have the option to upload a blank document in place of the medical examination. Following application submission, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will provide applicants with clear instructions on when and how to schedule their medical exams.
Furthermore, applicants who have previously undergone an Immigrant Medical Exam (IME) for another purpose, such as a work or study permit, and currently reside in Canada will be exempt from undergoing another IME when applying for Express Entry.
What to Expect at Your Medical Exam
Typically, the medical examination comprises two essential components:
- Medical History Questionnaire: During this phase, applicants will be required to answer questions about their health history, including any past or existing medical conditions.
- Physical Examination: A qualified physician will perform a physical examination, assessing vital signs such as heart, lungs, and eyes. Depending on the applicant’s age, additional tests like chest X-rays and laboratory assessments may be necessary.
What to Bring to Your Medical Exam
When attending the medical exam, it is essential to bring the following:
- Proper identification
- Eyeglasses or contact lenses (if applicable)
- Any relevant medical reports or test results related to previous or existing medical conditions
- A list of current medications
- The Medical Report form (if an upfront medical exam was not conducted)
- Four recent photographs (if the panel physician does not utilize eMedical)
- Payment for the medical examination
Payment and Validity
Applicants are responsible for covering all associated fees for the medical exam at the time of their appointment. Once the results become available, the physician will send them to the applicant and provide a document certifying that the medical exam was completed.
It is important to note that the validity of medical exam results is limited to 12 months. If an applicant does not complete the process of immigrating to Canada as a permanent resident within this timeframe, they may be required to undergo another medical examination.
Conclusion
The removal of the pre-application medical examination requirement is a significant step forward for Express Entry candidates. This change not only simplifies the application process but also enhances accessibility for individuals aspiring to attain permanent residency in Canada. If you are contemplating applying for Express Entry, this adjustment promises a smoother journey towards realizing your dream of Canadian residency.
Please visit our website www.visaliv.com for more details, where you will find answers to all of your visa and immigration-related questions.
Thanks,
VisaLiv Team