Canada has updated the list of countries whose temporary resident applicants will be required to undergo an immigration medical examination.
If you are applying to become a temporary resident of Canada, you must have an immigration medical exam (IME) if you want to come to Canada for more than 6 months. All those applying for a parent and grandparent super visa are also required to have an immigration medical exam (IME).
Effective November 3, 2025, Canada has added and removed several countries for temporary resident applicants required to do IME.
An IME is now needed if you have lived in or visited:
Argentina
Colombia
Uruguay
Venezuela
An IME is no longer needed if you lived in or visited:
Armenia
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Iraq
Latvia
Lithuania
Taiwan
For Indians applying for temporary residents, such as for a student visa, the requirement for IME is already in practice.
You may be exempt from completing another IME if you meet all of these conditions:
You applied or are applying for either permanent residence or temporary residence
You already live in Canada
You completed your previous IME in the last 5 years
Your previous IME indicated a low risk or no risk to public health or public safety.
Canada has extended the temporary public policy to exempt certain foreign nationals in Canada from the immigration medical examination requirement until October 5, 2029.
A significant modification to the requirements for foreign applicants seeking permanent residence was announced by Canada in August. Proof of immigration medical exams (IMEs) must be submitted upfront by foreign nationals who have completed their Express Entry profile. In the past, they had to wait for IRCC instructions before submitting the IMEs.
Beginning on August 21, foreigners who receive an invitation to apply for permanent residence in Canada must provide proof of their medical examination, as well as that of any family members who may be needed.