Canadian permanent residency requires an immigration medical exam (IME) from an IRCC-approved Panel Physician — not your family doctor. You have two options for when to do it.
Upfront medical exam (recommended)
Complete the IME before submitting your PR application. The Panel Physician submits results directly to IRCC; you include the receipt with your application. This shortens overall processing by 2–4 months.
Post-submission medical exam
Wait for IRCC to issue a medical request letter, then complete the exam within 30 days. Adds processing time but avoids paying for the medical if your application is incomplete.
What’s tested
Physical examination, urinalysis, chest X-ray (15 and older), syphilis serology (15 and older), HIV (15 and older + children of HIV-positive parents).
How long results are valid
12 months from the IME date.