The Latest Update from IRCC
On November 3, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) updated the list of countries and territories where an Immigration Medical Exam (IME) is required.
This update determines whether individuals who have lived in or visited certain countries must undergo a medical examination before entering Canada. The IME requirement is intended to protect public health and safety by identifying medical conditions that could pose risks to the Canadian population or place excessive demand on health or social services.
What’s Changed as of November 3, 2025
According to IRCC’s latest update, the following changes are now in effect:
🩺 An IME is now required if you have lived in or visited:
- Argentina
- Colombia
- Uruguay
- Venezuela
✅ An IME is no longer required if you have lived in or visited:
- Armenia
- Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Iraq
- Latvia
- Lithuania
- Taiwan
It’s important to note that these changes do not affect applications submitted before November 3, 2025.
Why These Changes Matter
IRCC routinely updates the IME list to reflect evolving public health data, disease prevalence, and global health trends as assessed by the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) and the World Health Organization (WHO). If your country has been added to the IME-required list, you’ll need to complete a medical examination by a panel physician approved by IRCC before your application can be finalized. This applies to temporary residents (such as workers, students, and visitors) and permanent residence applicants alike.
For applicants from countries that were removed from the list, this change may simplify the process – saving time, cost, and reducing procedural steps in visa or immigration applications.
Avoiding Delays and Application Issues
Failing to complete an IME when required can lead to processing delays or refusal of your immigration application. Likewise, completing an unnecessary IME may result in wasted time and costs.
Before submitting your application, it’s crucial to:
- Review the latest IME country list on IRCC’s official website.
- Confirm your eligibility and medical exam requirements based on your travel and residence history.
- Use only an IRCC-approved panel physician for your exam.
If you’re uncertain about whether your medical history or travel record triggers the IME requirement, it’s best to seek professional legal guidance.
How Jain Immigration Law Can Help
At Jain Immigration Law, we stay up to date on every IRCC policy change – including medical exam updates that can affect application timelines and outcomes.
Our team helps clients:
- Confirm whether an IME is required based on their personal circumstances.
- Avoid application delays by ensuring all medical and documentation requirements are met.
- Navigate complex IRCC changes that impact workers, students, and permanent residents.
For detailed information on the IME requirements, visit the IRCC website:
🔗 IRCC – Country Requirements for Medical Exams
IRCC’s latest IME update reflects the ongoing evolution of global health data and Canada’s commitment to maintaining public safety.
Whether you’re applying for a work permit, study permit, or permanent residence, understanding medical exam requirements early can prevent unnecessary complications – and keep your immigration journey on track.
📧 Contact us: [email protected]
🌐 Visit: www.jainimmigrationlaw.com