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How Long Does the IRCC Immigration Medical Exam Take? | Full Timeline Guide for Canada
Jun 23, 2025
Navigating the Canadian immigration medical exam? Don't let uncertainty slow you down. This guide breaks down everything you need to know, from required tests to ensuring a smooth process.
If you're applying for permanent residence (PR), a work permit, a visitor visa, or refugee status in Canada, one essential step is completing your Immigration Medical Exam (IME). A common question many applicants ask is:
“How long does the immigration medical exam take in Canada?”
This complete guide by GTA Immigration Physicians, an approved IRCC panel clinic in Toronto, explains how long the IRCC medical exam takes — from booking your appointment to submission of your results. Whether you're in North York, Toronto, or anywhere across the Greater Toronto Area (GTA), this blog will help you prepare and stay on track.
⏱️ Quick Overview: Canada Immigration Medical Exam Timeline
Appointment availability: Same-day or next-day in North York
Total clinic time: Leave 2 hours for exam, blood test & X-ray
Results sent to IRCC: Within 5–7 business days, usually sooner
Validity: Results valid for 12 months, as per IRCC guidelines
📅 Step 1: Booking Your Immigration Medical Exam in Toronto
At GTA Immigration Physicians, we make booking fast and convenient for anyone needing a medical exam for immigration purposes:
Same-day & next-day availability
Open Saturdays
Walk-ins accepted (appointment preferred)
📍 Located at 5 Fairview Mall Drive, North York, we are easily accessible via TTC and offer ample parking. We serve clients from:
Toronto, North York, Scarborough, Thornhill, Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Etobicoke, Pickering, and beyond.
🩺 Step 2: How Long Does the IRCC Medical Exam Take at the Clinic?
We recommend allowing at least 2 hours for the full immigration medical process. While the actual physical exam may take less time, the total visit includes:
Check-in & registration
IRCC panel physician exam
On-site blood test and chest X-ray
Age-specific breakdown:
0–10 years: Physical exam only
11–14 years: Exam + chest X-ray
15–64 years: Exam + chest X-ray + blood test
65+ years: Includes additional assessments as needed
🏥 Everything is performed on-site — no need for outside lab or imaging visits.
What to Expect at Your Immigration Medical Exam
📤 Step 3: When Are IRCC Medical Results Submitted?
After your exam:
Our IRCC panel physician finalizes your file
Results are uploaded securely to IRCC's eMedical system
Typical turnaround: Results are submitted to IRCC in 5–7 business days, and usually sooner depending on lab processing times
Each patient receives an official eMedical information sheet or certificate after the appointment. This acts as:
Proof of medical completion for IRCC
A document you can upload for upfront medicals, visitor visa applications, or post-graduate work permits (PGWP)
❗ Delays may occur if your ID or paperwork is incomplete (e.g., refugee claimant form).
⏳ Step 4: How Long Does IRCC Take After the Medical Exam?
Many applicants wonder, “How long after medical exam does IRCC take to approve my visa?”
The truth is: IRCC processing times vary depending on:
Your visa category (e.g. PR, work permit, visitor visa)
Whether you're applying from inside or outside Canada
The time of year and IRCC’s workload
Whether all supporting documents were submitted correctly
📌 In general, processing can take a few weeks to several months.
👉 For accurate, up-to-date timelines, check:
IRCC Processing Times Tool
Who Needs an Immigration Medical Exam in Canada?
📆 When Should You Book Your Immigration Medical?
Book your IRCC medical exam as early as possible if:
You received a medical instruction letter
You’re doing an upfront medical exam for a visitor visa
You're working in healthcare, childcare, or education
📅 IRCC Medical Exam Validity Period
Your immigration medical results are valid for 12 months starting from your exam date.
🛑 This validity is set by IRCC, not the clinic or panel physician.
If your application is not finalized in that time, IRCC may request a new exam.
⚡ Tips to Speed Up Your Medical Exam Process
✅ Choose a high-efficiency clinic: On-site labs and X-ray save time
✅ Bring your documents:
Passport or valid government ID
IRCC medical instruction letter
Refugee claimant form (if IFHP-covered)
✅ Book early to avoid last-minute stress
💰 Immigration Medical Exam Fees at GTA Immigration Physicians
Age GroupMedical ExamX-rayBlood TestTotal0–10$150N/AN/A$15011–14$150$40N/A$19015–64$190$40Included$23065+$240$40Included$280
Additional charges:
$10 for Saturday appointments
$5 for credit card payments
Immigration Medical Exam Cost in Canada
🌍 Areas We Serve in the Greater Toronto Area (GTA)
GTA Immigration Physicians proudly serves individuals and families from:
North York, Toronto, Scarborough, Thornhill, Markham, Richmond Hill, Vaughan, Etobicoke, Pickering, and surrounding areas.
We’re a top choice for local searches like:
“immigration medical exam near me”
“panel physician Toronto IRCC”
“North York immigration doctor”
📝 Final Thoughts: How Long Does It Really Take?
Recap:
✅ Book early to avoid delays
✅ Leave 2 hours for your full exam
✅ We submit to IRCC within 5–7 business days, usually sooner
✅ Your results are valid for 12 months
✅ IRCC processing times vary — check their website for updates
At GTA Immigration Physicians, we help hundreds of applicants each month complete their IRCC medical exams quickly, professionally, and with zero hassle.
Disclaimer: This blog is for general information only. Please consult a licensed immigration consultant or lawyer for advice related to your specific case.