Express Entry Update: Upfront Medical Exams Now Required

 If you’re in the Express Entry pool or planning to join it, there’s an important update you need to know.

Starting 📅 August 21, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will require all applicants who receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA) for permanent residence to complete an upfront Immigration Medical Exam (IME) ✅ before submitting their application.

This is a change from the old process, where you waited for medical instructions after applying. Now, when you submit your application, you’ll need to upload proof that you’ve already done the exam.

What This Means for You

💡 If you’re in Canada and had an IME in the past 5 years

• 📜 This could be from a previous work permit, study permit, or other immigration process.

• ✏️ Include your IME number or UMI (Unique Medical Identifier) in your application.

• 🚫 If your old results can’t be reused, IRCC will send you instructions for a new exam after you apply.

💡 If you’ve never had an IME

• ⏳ Only do the exam after you receive your ITA.

🩺 Contact a panel physician, complete the exam, and 📤 upload proof with your PR application.

Key Takeaways

• Before 🕒: Medical exam after applying.

• Now ⚡: Medical exam before submitting your application.

• Tip 💬: Don’t rush to do your IME before your ITA — timing matters!

❓ Why the Change?

IRCC is aiming for ⏩ faster processing by having medical results ready upfront. This reduces delays and speeds up the PR decision timeline.

 Pro Tip: If you’re in the Express Entry pool now, start 📍 finding panel physicians near you so you can book quickly once you get your ITA.

Book a consultation now!

Express Entry Update: Upfront Medical Exams Now Required