Top 5 Canada Immigration Medical Exam Costs

What is the Canada Immigration Medical Exam (IME)?

The Canada Immigration Medical Exam (IME) is a mandatory health check required by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for most individuals applying for permanent residence, and for some temporary residents. It is not a general check-up but a specific examination designed to protect public health and safety in Canada, and to prevent excessive demand on health and social services. You cannot use your family doctor for this exam; it must be performed by a doctor approved by IRCC, known as a "panel physician." According to IRCC’s official instructions, the purpose is to screen for conditions that are a danger to public health, a danger to public safety, or might reasonably be expected to cause excessive demand on health or social services.

Key facts about the IME:

• It is a requirement for most permanent residence applicants and some temporary residents (e.g., those applying for a work permit in certain fields like healthcare or coming from a designated country).
• The exam is valid for 12 months from the date it is completed.
• You must complete the exam after you submit your application but before a final decision is made. IRCC will send you instructions.

How Much Does a Canada Immigration Medical Exam Cost in 2025?

The cost of a Canada Immigration Medical Exam for an adult typically falls between CAD $200 and $450, with an average around $300. However, this is a general range, and the final price can be higher. Panel physicians are private practitioners, and IRCC does not set their fees. This means the cost can vary dramatically based on the doctor's practice, the city or province you are in, and the specific tests required for your age group. For example, an IME in a major city like Toronto or Vancouver will often be at the higher end of the scale, while one in a smaller city may be less expensive.

Here’s a general breakdown of what to expect:

• Adult (15 years and older): $250 - $450+
• Child (under 11 years old): $150 - $250
• Adolescent (11-14 years old): $180 - $300

These fees usually cover the core components: the physical examination, a urinalysis, a chest X-ray (for those 11+), and a blood test (for those 15+). Always confirm what is included when you book your appointment, as some clinics may list these as separate line items.

What's Included in the Immigration Medical Exam Fee?

The IME fee generally covers a physical examination, a chest X-ray, and blood and urine tests to screen for specific conditions. The exam is not a comprehensive health assessment but focuses on conditions of public health significance. The panel physician does not make the final admissibility decision; they simply conduct the tests and submit the results to IRCC for review. The process is standardized, but the exact tests depend on your age.

A standard IME includes:

• Physical Examination: A general check of your heart, lungs, abdomen, reflexes, and mental state.
• Chest X-ray: To screen for tuberculosis (required for applicants 11 years and older).
• Blood Tests: To screen for syphilis and to check for HIV status (required for applicants 15 years and older).
• Urine Test: To screen for syphilis and other abnormalities.

It's crucial to understand that if any of these initial tests indicate a potential issue, IRCC may request further medical investigations, which will incur additional costs not covered by the initial IME fee.

Who Needs to Complete an Immigration Medical Exam?

Most applicants for Canadian permanent residence and some temporary residents are required to undergo an IME. The requirement is not based on your country of citizenship but on your residence and travel history, as well as the type of job you will be doing in Canada. Even if you are in perfect health, you must complete the exam if IRCC requests it. Failing to do so will result in your application being refused.

You will likely need an IME if you:

• Are applying for permanent residence.
• Have lived in a designated country or territory for six or more months in the last year.
• Are coming to Canada to work in a job that brings you into close contact with people (e.g., health sciences, childcare, primary/secondary education).
• Are applying for a Parent and Grandparent Super Visa.

Unsure if you need an exam? The rules can be complex. Using a tool like Evola AI's Immigration Success Predictor can help you understand your specific application requirements and prepare for necessary steps like the medical exam.

How Do I Find a Panel Physician and Book My Exam?

You must find an IRCC-approved panel physician in your country of residence to book your exam. You cannot use just any doctor. The list of authorized doctors is available on the official Government of Canada website. It is highly recommended to contact the clinic directly to confirm their fees, payment methods, and what documents you need to bring.

Follow these steps to book your IME:

1. Visit the IRCC Website: Go to the official Find a panel physician page.
2. Select Your Country/Region: Use the dropdown menu to find a list of approved doctors in your area.
3. Contact the Clinic: Call or email the clinic to schedule an appointment. Ask about the cost, accepted payment methods, and required documents.
4. Prepare Your Documents: You will typically need your passport, government-issued photo ID, any glasses or contact lenses you use, and any prior medical reports for existing conditions. If you have one, bring the IMM 1017E (Medical Report form) or the IME number from your application.

What Factors Cause the Medical Exam Price to Vary?

The price of an IME varies due to the panel physician's location, your age, and any additional tests required. Since panel physicians are private practitioners operating in different economic environments, their overhead costs and standard fees will differ. A clinic in a high-cost urban center will naturally charge more than one in a rural area. Furthermore, the scope of the exam is not identical for everyone.

Key factors influencing the cost:

• Geographic Location: Prices are generally higher in developed countries and major metropolitan areas.
• Clinic/Physician: Each practice sets its own fees.
• Applicant's Age: The required tests differ by age, affecting the total cost (e.g., no blood test for children under 15).
• Additional Tests: If initial results are unclear, follow-up tests (e.g., a specialist consultation, HBsAg test for Hepatitis B) will add to the cost.

What If I Have a Pre-Existing Medical Condition?

Having a pre-existing medical condition does not automatically make you medically inadmissible to Canada. The IME assesses whether your condition is a danger to public health or safety, or if it might place an "excessive demand" on Canada's health or social services. Many people with managed chronic conditions like diabetes or hypertension are approved without issue. The key is to be prepared: bring all relevant medical records, reports, and a list of your current medications to your IME appointment.

If a condition is identified that could be considered excessive demand, IRCC will issue a "procedural fairness letter," giving you an opportunity to respond with a mitigation plan or further medical opinion. Navigating this process can be stressful. An AI mentor like Evola AI can help you understand the implications and prepare a well-documented response, providing 24/7 guidance at a fraction of the cost of traditional legal counsel.

How Can I Prepare for My Medical Exam to Avoid Surprises?

To prepare for your IME, gather all necessary documents, know your medical history, and be ready to discuss any ongoing treatments. Proper preparation ensures the process goes smoothly and helps you avoid delays or unexpected requests for more information. The exam itself is straightforward, but being organized will reduce your stress.

Your preparation checklist should include:

• Valid Passport: This is your primary identification.
• Eye Glasses/Contact Lenses: If you use them.
• Medical Reports: For any existing conditions, past surgeries, or hospitalizations.
• List of Medications: Include dosages and the conditions they treat.
• IME Form or Number: If you have received it from IRCC.
• Payment: Confirm the clinic's accepted payment methods (cash, credit card, etc.).

What Happens After the Medical Exam?

After your exam, the panel physician will submit the results directly to IRCC, and you will be given a proof-of-medical-exam document for your records. You do not receive a copy of the test results. The IRCC medical officer will then review the findings. You do not need to do anything else unless IRCC contacts you for more information. You can check the status of your medical results through your online application account.

It's important to note that the medical exam is just one part of your application. Your overall eligibility is determined by a combination of factors. To see how your profile stacks up, you can use tools like the Evola AI CRS Calculator to get a realistic score estimate for programs like Express Entry.

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Navigating the immigration medical exam is a crucial step on your journey to Canada. While the cost can feel like an unexpected expense, it's a mandatory and non-negotiable part of the process for most applicants. By understanding the fees, knowing what to expect, and choosing an authorized panel physician, you can complete this step with confidence. Remember, this health screening is in place to protect everyone in Canada, including your future self.

Ready to move forward with your Canadian immigration journey? Let Evola AI guide you through every step, from understanding costs to preparing your application. Explore your options today!