Canada is a popular destination for tourists, students from other countries, and new immigrants. Before entering the country as a visitor, you must have a medical exam. This is to ensure that you do not have any diseases or conditions that could risk public health in Canada. The medical test is not difficult, and many qualified doctors can perform it. However, there are some things that you should know about the process before you go through with it.
Here are some of them:
1. You don’t need a medical test if you plan to stay for less than 6 months.
If you decide to visit Canada for less than six months and do not plan to work or study throughout your stay, you do not need to have a medical exam. But you must get a medical exam if you want to extend your stay or change your status (for example, from a tourist to a student).
2. You need a panel-approved physician to conduct your medical exam.
You cannot just go to a general practitioner or your family doctor. The doctor must be an approved panel physician. You can find a list of these doctors on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) website.
The validity of your medical exam is 12 months or one year from your examination date.
3. You need to provide copies of your immunization records.
The doctor conducting your medical exam will need to see proof that you have been vaccinated against certain diseases. These diseases include:
- Hepatitis A and B vaccines
- Rubella-containing vaccine
- Varicella-containing vaccine
- Inactivated polio-containing vaccine (IPV)
- Pertussis-containing vaccine
- COVID-19 vaccine
If necessary, the medical test involves a physical examination, urinalysis, blood sample, and other diagnostic tests. You also must remember that you will have to pay the immigration medical exam fee and related costs. The cost depends on the country you are coming from. In Canada, the average price is 250 CAD for a single adult person. Children often have lower rates because they require fewer tests.
4. You can appeal if you fail the medical test.
If you are found to have a condition that poses a risk to public health, you will be refused entry into Canada. If you receive a Procedural Fairness Letter from the CIC, you can appeal the decision within 30 days. In this case, hiring a qualified immigration lawyer is best to help you with your appeal.
In addition, if you have a medical condition that needs treatment, you must resolve these issues before you can be allowed into Canada. Make sure to get a letter from your doctor indicating that your condition is under control and that you pose no risk to others. It’s best to
5. You need to have health insurance while in Canada.
Canadian’s public health care system does not cover visitors to the country. You need to have private health insurance that will cover you for the duration of your stay in Canada. This ensures you can pay for any medical treatment you might need while in the country.
The requirements for the medical exam may change over time, so it is important to stay up-to-date on the latest information.
Final thoughts
The medical exam for visitors to Canada is not a complex process, but there are some things that you need to know about it. Be sure to research the requirements thoroughly and consult with a qualified doctor before you travel. If you’re already in Canada, you can click here if you’re nearby the greater Toronto area for panel-approved physicians.