Canada Visitor Visa Medical Examination Requirements

Medical Exam Overview: When Health Assessments Are Required

Medical examinations for Canada visitor visas are not automatically required for all applicants. Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) mandates medical exams only under specific circumstances, making it crucial to understand whether your application triggers these requirements.

When Medical Exams Are Required vs Optional: Medical examinations become mandatory based on specific risk factors rather than universal application. The requirement depends on your country of residence, intended duration of stay, age, and health declarations in your application.

Policy Updates 2025: IRCC has expanded medical examination requirements for visitors from certain countries and introduced enhanced screening protocols for applicants over 65. New guidelines also include mental health assessments for extended stay applications and stricter tuberculosis screening for high-risk regions.

What this means for you: Understanding whether you need a medical exam before starting your application saves time and prevents delays. If required, medical exams must be completed before your visa can be processed, adding 2-4 weeks to your application timeline.

Cost Implications: Medical examinations are applicant-funded expenses ranging from $200-600 CAD depending on your location and required tests. These costs are non-refundable regardless of visa application outcome.

Requirement Triggers: Understanding When Medical Exams Are Mandatory

Several factors determine whether IRCC requires medical examinations for your visitor visa application. Understanding these triggers helps you plan your application timeline and budget accordingly.

Country-Specific Requirements

Designated Countries and Territories: IRCC maintains a list of countries where residents must undergo medical examinations regardless of visit duration due to higher health risks or inadequate health surveillance systems.

Countries Requiring Mandatory Medical Exams:

• Africa: Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, South Africa, Ethiopia, Democratic Republic of Congo, Uganda, Tanzania, Zimbabwe, Cameroon
• Asia: India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos, Philippines
• Other Regions: Haiti, Guyana, Moldova, Papua New Guinea

What this means for you: If you’ve lived in any designated country for more than 6 months in the past year, you’ll need a medical exam regardless of your current residence or citizenship.

Recent Travel History Impact: Extended stays in designated countries can trigger medical exam requirements even if you’re applying from a non-designated country. IRCC considers cumulative time spent in high-risk areas over the past year.

If you’re applying from Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya, or South Africa: Medical examinations are mandatory for all visitor visa applications regardless of duration or purpose. Plan for additional time and costs in your application process.

Duration-Based Triggers (6+ Months)

Extended Stay Requirements: Visitors planning to stay in Canada for 6 months or longer must undergo medical examinations regardless of their country of origin. This applies to all purposes including family visits, business assignments, and tourism.

Calculating Your Stay Duration:

• Single Visit: Total planned duration from arrival to departure
• Multiple Visits: Cumulative time if multiple visits within 12 months exceed 6 months
• Extending Stays: Original planned duration plus any extensions

Common Duration Scenarios:

• Parents visiting children: Often plan 6+ month stays, triggering medical requirements
• Business assignments: Extended training or project work requiring medical exams
• Multiple tourism visits: Frequent visitors whose cumulative stays exceed 6 months

Real mistake we’ve seen—and how to avoid it: Many applicants underestimate their planned stay duration to avoid medical exams. IRCC can refuse applications or require medical exams during processing if they suspect longer stays than declared.

Age-Related Requirements (65+ Years)

Senior Applicant Screening: Visitors aged 65 and older face enhanced medical screening requirements regardless of country of origin or planned duration. This policy recognizes increased health risks and potential healthcare system burden.

Enhanced Requirements for Seniors:

• Comprehensive medical examination including cardiovascular assessment
• Detailed health history review and documentation
• Medication list and ongoing treatment verification
• Mental health and cognitive function evaluation
• Mobility and independence assessment

What this means for you: Senior applicants should plan for more comprehensive medical exams taking longer to complete and costing more than standard examinations.

Travel Insurance Considerations: While not part of the medical exam requirement, seniors should secure comprehensive travel insurance coverage as IRCC officers may request proof of adequate health coverage.

Health Condition Declarations

Medical History Disclosure: Your visa application requires honest disclosure of medical conditions, treatments, and health history. Certain conditions automatically trigger medical examination requirements.

Conditions Triggering Medical Exams:

• Tuberculosis (current or previous)
• HIV/AIDS and other immunodeficiency conditions
• Mental health conditions requiring ongoing treatment
• Substance abuse history or treatment
• Chronic diseases requiring regular medical care
• Recent surgeries or hospitalizations
• Disability requiring accommodation or support

Medication-Related Triggers:

• Prescription medications for chronic conditions
• Mental health medications
• Immunosuppressive treatments
• Pain management medications
• Addiction treatment medications

Real mistake we’ve seen—and how to avoid it: Some applicants fail to declare medical conditions thinking it will improve their chances. Non-disclosure constitutes misrepresentation and can result in lifetime bans from Canada.

Optional—but strongly recommended by AVID experts: Even if your conditions don’t automatically trigger medical exams, consider voluntary medical examination if you have significant health issues. Proactive health documentation can strengthen your application.

Exam Components: Understanding the Medical Assessment Process

Canadian visitor visa medical examinations follow standardized protocols designed to assess health risks and ensure applicants don’t pose public health concerns or require excessive healthcare resources.

Standard Medical Examination

Comprehensive Physical Assessment: The standard medical examination includes thorough evaluation of major body systems and overall health status performed by IRCC-designated medical examiners.

Physical Examination Components:

• Cardiovascular system: Heart rate, blood pressure, heart sounds, circulation assessment
• Respiratory system: Lung function, breathing assessment, respiratory rate
• Neurological system: Mental status, cognitive function, reflexes, coordination
• Musculoskeletal system: Mobility, strength, joint function, disability assessment
• General health: Height, weight, BMI, vital signs, general appearance

Medical History Review:

• Complete medical history documentation
• Current medications and treatments
• Previous surgeries and hospitalizations
• Family medical history (if relevant)
• Vaccination history and immunization status

What this means for you: The examination is comprehensive but non-invasive. Most healthy applicants complete the process within 1-2 hours without complications.

Chest X-Ray Requirements

Tuberculosis Screening: Chest X-rays are mandatory for most medical examinations to screen for tuberculosis and other respiratory conditions that could pose public health risks.

X-Ray Specifications:

• Digital imaging: Most examiners use digital X-ray technology
• Posteroanterior view: Standard chest X-ray positioning
• Quality standards: Images must meet IRCC technical requirements
• Pregnancy considerations: Special protocols for pregnant applicants

Interpretation and Results:

• Normal results: No further action required
• Abnormal findings: May require additional testing or specialist consultation
• Active tuberculosis: Results in application refusal until treatment completed
• Previous tuberculosis: Requires documentation of successful treatment

If you have respiratory conditions: Inform the examiner about asthma, previous pneumonia, or other lung conditions. Bring relevant medical records to support your health history.

Blood Tests and Vaccinations

Laboratory Testing Requirements: Blood tests are required for applicants from certain countries or with specific health risk factors identified during the medical examination.

Standard Blood Tests Include:

• HIV testing: Required for applicants from high-prevalence countries
• Syphilis screening: Routine screening for sexually transmitted infections
• Complete blood count: General health assessment
• Liver function tests: Screening for hepatitis and liver disease
• Kidney function assessment: Basic metabolic panel

Vaccination Verification:

• Review of immunization records
• Assessment of vaccination status for preventable diseases
• Recommendations for travel-related vaccinations
• Documentation of contraindications to vaccination

Special Testing Circumstances:

• Pregnancy: Modified testing protocols with safety considerations
• Age-specific tests: Additional screening for older applicants
• Risk-based testing: Additional tests based on medical history or country of origin

Mental Health Assessments

Psychological Evaluation Components: Mental health assessments evaluate cognitive function, psychological stability, and potential risks to public safety or excessive healthcare demands.

Assessment Areas:

• Cognitive function: Memory, orientation, problem-solving ability
• Mental status: Mood, thought processes, behavioral observations
• Risk assessment: Potential for self-harm or harm to others
• Functionality: Ability to manage daily activities independently
• Treatment history: Previous mental health treatment and outcomes

When Mental Health Assessments Are Required:

• Disclosed history of mental health conditions
• Current psychiatric medication use
• Previous hospitalizations for mental health
• Substance abuse history
• Age-related cognitive concerns (seniors)

What this means for you: Mental health assessments are clinical evaluations, not judgmental processes. Honest disclosure and cooperation lead to fair assessments and appropriate recommendations.

Designated Medical Examiners: Finding Approved Healthcare Providers

IRCC maintains a network of designated medical examiners (DMEs) authorized to conduct immigration medical examinations. These healthcare providers receive specialized training in immigration health requirements and use standardized protocols.

Finding Approved Doctors by Country

Locating Designated Medical Examiners: The IRCC website maintains an updated directory of approved medical examiners organized by country and city. This searchable database includes contact information, available services, and appointment booking procedures.

Examiner Qualification Requirements:

• Licensed medical practitioners in good standing
• Specialized immigration medical examination training
• IRCC certification and ongoing compliance monitoring
• Access to required diagnostic equipment and laboratory services
• Quality assurance and reporting standards compliance

What this means for you: Only examinations conducted by IRCC-designated medical examiners are accepted for visa applications. Private physician reports or examinations don’t meet immigration requirements.

Nigeria: Lagos and Abuja Locations

Lagos Designated Medical Examiners:

1. St. Nicholas Hospital

• Address: 57 Campbell Street, Lagos Island, Lagos State
• Phone: +234 1 460 0000
• Services: Complete medical examinations, X-ray, laboratory services
• Appointment: Online booking available
• Cost Range: ₦85,000 – ₦120,000 ($200-280 CAD)

2. Lagos University Teaching Hospital (LUTH)

• Address: Idi-Araba, Surulere, Lagos State
• Phone: +234 1 771 3061
• Services: Full medical assessment including specialist consultations
• Cost Range: ₦75,000 – ₦100,000 ($175-235 CAD)

3. EKO Hospital

• Address: 31 Mobolaji Bank Anthony Way, Ikeja, Lagos
• Phone: +234 1 453 3032
• Services: Comprehensive examinations with digital X-ray
• Cost Range: ₦90,000 – ₦130,000 ($210-305 CAD)

Abuja Designated Medical Examiners:

1. National Hospital Abuja

• Address: Plot 132 District, Central Business District, Abuja
• Phone: +234 9 461 2580
• Services: Complete medical and psychiatric evaluations
• Cost Range: ₦80,000 – ₦115,000 ($185-270 CAD)

2. University of Abuja Teaching Hospital

• Address: Gwagwalada, FCT, Abuja
• Phone: +234 9 670 2069
• Services: Full examination with specialist referrals
• Cost Range: ₦70,000 – ₦95,000 ($165-220 CAD)

Ghana, Kenya, South Africa Listings

Ghana – Accra: Greater Accra Regional Hospital

• Address: Ridge Hospital, Asylum Down, Accra
• Phone: +233 30 266 4421
• Cost Range: GHS 800-1,200 ($195-290 CAD)

37 Military Hospital

• Address: Giffard Road, Michel Camp, Accra
• Phone: +233 30 277 7191
• Cost Range: GHS 850-1,300 ($205-315 CAD)

Kenya – Nairobi: Aga Khan University Hospital

• Address: 3rd Parklands Avenue, Nairobi
• Phone: +254 20 374 0000
• Cost Range: KSh 25,000-35,000 ($235-330 CAD)

Kenyatta National Hospital

• Address: Hospital Road, Upper Hill, Nairobi
• Phone: +254 20 272 6300
• Cost Range: KSh 20,000-30,000 ($190-285 CAD)

South Africa – Johannesburg: Milpark Hospital

• Address: 9 Guild Road, Parktown West, Johannesburg
• Phone: +27 11 480 7111
• Cost Range: R3,500-5,000 ($250-360 CAD)

If you’re in a remote area: Contact the nearest designated medical examiner to arrange travel for your examination. Some examiners offer scheduling accommodations for distant applicants.

Exam Process and Costs: Navigation and Financial Planning

Understanding the medical examination process helps you prepare effectively and budget appropriately for this mandatory component of your visa application.

Booking Appointments

Appointment Scheduling Process: Contact designated medical examiners directly to schedule your immigration medical examination. Most facilities offer multiple booking methods including phone, online, and in-person scheduling.

Booking Requirements:

• Valid passport or government-issued photo identification
• IRCC medical examination request (if application already submitted)
• Payment method (cash, card, or bank transfer depending on facility)
• Preferred appointment date and time
• Contact information for results delivery

Scheduling Timeline:

• High-demand locations: 2-4 weeks advance booking recommended
• Rural or limited facilities: 4-6 weeks advance booking may be necessary
• Urgent cases: Some facilities offer expedited appointments for additional fees
• Peak seasons: Holiday periods and visa processing rushes increase wait times

What this means for you: Book your medical examination as soon as you determine it’s required. Delays in medical exam completion can significantly impact your visa processing timeline.

Cost Breakdown by Country

Medical Examination Fee Components:

• Basic medical examination: Physician consultation and physical assessment
• Chest X-ray: Tuberculosis and respiratory screening
• Laboratory tests: Blood work and additional testing as required
• Administrative fees: Report preparation and submission to IRCC

Cost Ranges by Region:

West Africa (Nigeria, Ghana):

• Basic examination: $150-220 CAD
• Chest X-ray: $30-50 CAD
• Laboratory tests: $40-80 CAD
• Total typical cost: $220-350 CAD

East Africa (Kenya, Tanzania):

• Basic examination: $180-250 CAD
• Chest X-ray: $35-55 CAD
• Laboratory tests: $45-90 CAD
• Total typical cost: $260-395 CAD

Southern Africa (South Africa, Zimbabwe):

• Basic examination: $200-280 CAD
• Chest X-ray: $40-65 CAD
• Laboratory tests: $50-100 CAD
• Total typical cost: $290-445 CAD

Additional Costs to Consider:

• Transportation to examination facility
• Accommodation if traveling to examiner location
• Translation services for medical records
• Additional testing if abnormalities found
• Re-examination fees if initial results expire

Results Timeline and Submission

Medical Examination Results Processing: After completing your examination, results undergo review and processing before submission to IRCC. Understanding this timeline helps you plan your visa application accordingly.

Standard Processing Timeline:

• Same-day preliminary results: Basic examination findings
• Laboratory results: 3-7 business days for standard tests
• X-ray interpretation: 1-3 business days for radiologist review
• Complete report submission: 5-10 business days after examination
• IRCC processing: Additional 2-4 weeks for immigration review

Result Delivery Methods:

• Direct IRCC submission: Most common method with examiner sending results directly
• Applicant pickup: Some facilities provide sealed results for personal submission
• Digital transmission: Secure electronic submission to immigration authorities
• Express options: Expedited processing available at additional cost

What this means for you: Factor medical exam processing time into your overall visa application timeline. Results are typically valid for 12 months from examination date.

Real mistake we’ve seen—and how to avoid it: Some applicants complete medical exams too early, causing results to expire before visa processing completion. Time your examination to ensure results remain valid throughout processing.

Medical Inadmissibility: Health Conditions That May Affect Your Application

Canadian immigration law includes provisions for medical inadmissibility designed to protect public health and prevent excessive healthcare system burden. Understanding these criteria helps you assess potential risks and prepare appropriate documentation.

Conditions That May Cause Refusal

Public Health Concerns: Certain communicable diseases can result in visa refusal due to public health risks, though many conditions are manageable with appropriate treatment and precautions.

Communicable Diseases of Concern:

• Active tuberculosis: Requires completed treatment before visa approval
• Untreated syphilis: Must complete treatment and demonstrate cure
• Active hepatitis B or C: May require specialist consultation and treatment
• HIV/AIDS: Not automatically inadmissible but requires medical assessment

Excessive Healthcare Demand: Conditions requiring extensive medical care or social services may be considered excessive demand on Canadian healthcare resources.

Conditions Often Considered Excessive Demand:

• Advanced kidney disease requiring dialysis
• Severe intellectual disabilities requiring institutional care
• Advanced cancer requiring extensive treatment
• Severe mental illness requiring hospitalization
• Complex medical conditions requiring specialized ongoing care

What this means for you: Medical inadmissibility doesn’t automatically mean refusal. Many conditions can be managed with proper documentation, treatment plans, and insurance coverage.

Appeal Processes

Medical Inadmissibility Procedures: If IRCC determines you’re medically inadmissible, specific procedures allow for review, additional information, and potential appeals of the decision.

Review and Response Process:

• Medical officer assessment: Specialist immigration medical officer review
• Procedural fairness letter: Opportunity to respond to medical concerns
• Additional information submission: Medical reports, treatment plans, insurance coverage
• Medical mitigation plan: Demonstration of how health needs will be managed
• Final decision review: Consideration of all submitted information

Appeal Options:

• Federal Court review: Judicial review of immigration decision
• Humanitarian considerations: Exceptional circumstances review
• Medical mitigation plans: Insurance or family support demonstrations
• Specialist medical opinions: Additional expert assessments

Mitigation Strategies

Proactive Health Documentation: Strong medical documentation and mitigation plans can address potential inadmissibility concerns before they become problems.

Effective Mitigation Approaches:

• Comprehensive insurance coverage: Private health insurance covering all potential needs
• Medical management plans: Detailed treatment and monitoring strategies
• Family support documentation: Proof of family ability to provide care and support
• Specialist medical opinions: Expert assessments of condition management
• Financial capacity demonstration: Ability to pay for medical care without public burden

Travel Insurance Considerations: Comprehensive travel insurance covering pre-existing conditions can demonstrate that you won’t burden Canadian healthcare resources.

Optional—but strongly recommended by AVID experts: If you have significant health conditions, consult with immigration medical experts before applying to develop effective mitigation strategies and documentation.

Interactive Medical Examiner Directory

Search by Country and City

Country Selection:

• Nigeria → Lagos (5 facilities), Abuja (3 facilities), Port Harcourt (2 facilities)
• Ghana → Accra (4 facilities), Kumasi (2 facilities)
• Kenya → Nairobi (6 facilities), Mombasa (2 facilities)
• South Africa → Johannesburg (8 facilities), Cape Town (5 facilities), Durban (3 facilities)

Facility Information Includes:

• Contact information and addresses
• Available services and specializations
• Cost ranges and payment methods
• Appointment booking procedures
• Average wait times and availability

Medical Exam Cost Calculator

Select Your Location: [Dropdown menu with countries and cities] Select Required Tests:

• [ ] Standard medical examination
• [ ] Chest X-ray
• [ ] Blood tests (HIV, syphilis)
• [ ] Mental health assessment
• [ ] Additional specialist consultation

Estimated Total Cost: $XXX CAD Additional Fees: Travel, accommodation, translation services

Exam Preparation Checklist

What to Bring to Your Medical Examination

Required Documentation:

• [ ] Valid passport or government-issued photo ID
• [ ] Passport-sized photographs (if required by facility)
• [ ] Medical examination request from IRCC (if available)
• [ ] Previous medical records and test results
• [ ] Current medication list with dosages
• [ ] Vaccination records and immunization history
• [ ] Eyeglasses or contact lenses (if worn)

Recommended Additional Items:

• [ ] List of previous surgeries and hospitalizations
• [ ] Family medical history information
• [ ] Translation of foreign medical documents
• [ ] Insurance information and coverage details
• [ ] Emergency contact information

What to Expect During Your Examination

Examination Day Timeline:

• Arrival and registration: 15-30 minutes
• Medical history review: 20-30 minutes
• Physical examination: 30-45 minutes
• Additional testing: 30-60 minutes (if required)
• Results discussion: 10-15 minutes
• Total time: 2-3 hours typically

Preparation Tips:

• Arrive well-rested and hydrated
• Wear comfortable, easily removable clothing
• Bring current medications in original containers
• Fast if blood tests are required (confirm with facility)
• Complete any required forms in advance

Timeline Planner: From Booking to Results

Medical Examination Process Timeline

Week 1-2: Preparation and Booking

• Determine if medical exam is required
• Research designated medical examiners in your area
• Gather required documentation and medical records
• Book appointment with preferred facility

Week 3: Examination Completion

• Attend medical examination appointment
• Complete all required tests and assessments
• Receive preliminary results and next steps
• Confirm result submission process

Week 4-5: Results Processing

• Laboratory and imaging results completion
• Medical examiner report preparation
• Quality assurance and review processes
• Submission to IRCC immigration authorities

Week 6-8: Immigration Review

• IRCC medical officer assessment
• Integration with visa application processing
• Additional information requests (if needed)
• Final medical admissibility determination

Planning Recommendations:

• Start medical exam process 2 months before intended travel
• Allow extra time if you have complex medical conditions
• Consider expedited services if timeline is tight
• Monitor application status for any additional requirements

Medical Form Samples: Understanding the Documentation

Sample Medical Examination Report (IME 1017)

Section A: Applicant Information

• Full name and identification details
• Date of birth and country of birth
• Current address and contact information
• Immigration application details

Section B: Medical History

• Previous medical conditions and treatments
• Current medications and dosages
• Surgical history and hospitalizations
• Family medical history (if relevant)

Section C: Physical Examination Findings

• Vital signs and basic measurements
• System-by-system examination results
• Mental health and cognitive assessment
• Functional capacity evaluation

Section D: Diagnostic Test Results

• Chest X-ray interpretation
• Laboratory test results
• Additional imaging or testing
• Specialist consultation reports

Section E: Medical Officer Assessment

• Overall health status evaluation
• Public health risk assessment
• Healthcare demand evaluation
• Final medical admissibility recommendation

Resources from AVID

🔍 Medical Examiner Search Tool

Interactive Directory: Searchable database of designated medical examiners by country and city with contact information, services, and cost estimates.

💰 Cost Estimation Calculator

Budget Planning Tool: Calculate expected medical examination costs based on your location and required tests with currency conversion.

📋 Examination Preparation Guide

Complete Checklist: Detailed preparation guide including required documents, what to expect, and tips for successful examination completion.

⏰ Timeline Planning Tool

Process Scheduler: Interactive timeline planner helping you coordinate medical examinations with visa application processing deadlines.

📄 Medical Documentation Templates

Form Samples: Examples of medical examination reports and required documentation to understand the process and requirements.

💬 Need Medical Examination Guidance?

Why Choose AVID Premium Guidance for Medical Requirements?

Medical inadmissibility is a complex area of immigration law with significant consequences for your application. Our medical immigration specialists help you navigate health requirements and address potential concerns proactively.