[IRCC Halts Medical Exam Waiver for Express Entry Applicants]

Canada’s Express Entry System: Stricter Medical Exam Requirements Come into Effect

As of October 21, 2025, significant changes have been implemented in the Canadian immigration process, directly impacting Express Entry applicants. The facilitation period, which allowed the submission of permanent residence (PR) applications without an upfront Immigration Medical Examination (IME), has ended. This policy change by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) reflects a return to pre-pandemic standards, requiring all applicants to present a valid IME at the time of their application.

Background and Rationale

During the COVID-19 pandemic, global disruptions made it challenging for applicants to obtain timely medical examinations. In response, IRCC temporarily allowed applicants to submit their PR applications and complete their IME later. With global operations now normalized, the IRCC has reinstated standard documentation requirements. The decision aims to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of application processing, aligning medical standards across federal and provincial programs.

Implications for Express Entry Applicants

The policy change affects all major Express Entry categories, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, Federal Skilled Trades Program, and candidates applying through Provincial Nominee Programs. Applicants must now complete and submit proof of their IME with their PR application. Failure to do so will result in immediate rejection before the application enters the processing queue.

To comply with the new requirements, applicants should:

1. Schedule a medical exam with an IRCC-approved panel physician before submitting their application.
2. Upload the IMM 1017B form or proof of medical completion with their PR documents.
3. Ensure the medical report remains valid for at least 12 months at the time of PR approval.

Benefits and Challenges

The return to stricter medical documentation standards is part of IRCC’s broader strategy to streamline PR processing and reduce backlogs. Key benefits include faster decision-making, reduced application errors, and enhanced public health assurance through pre-arrival medical screening. However, the onus is now on applicants to ensure all documentation, including the medical exam, is complete and accurate at the time of submission.

Avoiding Common Pitfalls

With these changes, even minor documentation oversights can lead to application rejection. Common mistakes include submitting outdated or incomplete medical reports, uploading incorrect file formats, and failing to include the necessary IMM 1017B form. Applicants should verify their medical exam status through IRCC’s eMedical system or directly with their physician before submission.

Conclusion

The updated medical exam policy underscores the importance of preparedness and compliance for all Express Entry applicants. As Canada continues to refine its immigration processes, ensuring fully accurate and verified documentation from the outset is crucial for successful application outcomes. As the landscape of Canadian immigration evolves, staying informed and proactive remains key for prospective immigrants navigating these changes.

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