Canada Updates Rules for Immigration Medical Exams and Biometrics
Understanding Canada’s Updated Rules for Immigration Medical Exams & Biometrics
Canada continues to refine its immigration system to create a smoother, more secure, and more transparent pathway for newcomers. Starting August 21, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will implement a new set of rules for medical examinations and biometrics, two essential components for individuals applying for Canada PR or aiming to transition to long-term residence.
These updates form part of Canada’s broader strategy to strengthen public health safeguards while reducing unnecessary delays in application processing. Whether you are applying through Express Entry, planning a Canada Work Permit, or submitting a family or economic immigration application, understanding these new rules is crucial.
Why IRCC Updated the Requirements
1. Enhancing Public Health & Safety
2. Reducing Processing Delays
Mandatory Upfront Medical Exams for Express Entry Applicants
One of the most significant policy shifts is the requirement for upfront medical examinations for all Express Entry candidates who are submitting their final PR application.
What Has Changed?
Previously, applicants submitted their PR application first and completed their Immigration Medical Exam (IME) only after receiving instructions. Now, IRCC requires all Express Entry applicants to undergo an IME before they submit their PR application.
How the New Process Works
- Applicants must contact an IRCC-approved panel physician on their own.
- The medical exam must be completed before uploading the final PR application.
- Proof of the medical exam must be uploaded through the Express Entry Profile Builder.
This earlier step helps shorten the post-submission timeline and reduces backlogs.
Temporary Medical Exam Exemptions for Applicants Already Living in Canada
IRCC has extended a public policy that benefits individuals who are already residing in Canada and want to apply, or have already applied for permanent or temporary residence. This exemption is valid until October 5, 2029.
Who Qualifies for the Exemption?
- They live in Canada at the time of application.
- They are applying for Canada PR, an extension, or another temporary stay.
- They completed an IRCC-approved medical exam within the past five years.
- Their previous results showed low to no risk to public health or safety.
Biometrics Requirements for Permanent Residency Applicants
Who Must Provide Biometrics?
What Applicants Should Expect
- Biometrics must be given at an approved Visa Application Centre (VAC) or biometrics collection site.
- Instructions will be sent after the application is submitted.
- Biometrics help IRCC verify identity, prevent fraud, and ensure security across all immigration pathways.
This requirement applies to applicants for Canada PR, family sponsorships, and many Canada Work Permit and study visa categories.
Validity Periods for Medical Exams & Biometrics
Understanding the validity of these documents helps applicants avoid last-minute complications.
Medical Exam Validity: 12 Months
Medical exam results remain valid for one year. If applicants do not become permanent residents within that timeframe, they may be required to undergo another exam.
Biometrics Validity: 10 Years
How These Changes Impact PR and Work Permit Aspirants
- Express Entry (FSW, FST, CEC)
- Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
- Canada Work Permit applications converting to PR
- Family immigration streams
- Students transitioning from study to permanent residency
By requiring critical steps upfront, IRCC aims to make the PR journey more predictable and more aligned with global best practices.
Tips for Applicants to Avoid Delays
1. Book Your Medical Exam Early
Panel physicians often have long wait times—especially in major cities in India.
2. Keep Your Previous IME Number Handy
This helps if you are eligible for the exemption policy within Canada.
3. Monitor Your IRCC Portal Regularly
Updates, document requests, and biometrics instructions appear there first.
4. Use Verified Information Sources
Rely on IRCC updates, reputable immigration pages, or the Best Immigration Consultants in India for accurate guidance.
Why Immigration Applicants Choose Professional Assistance
Navigating Canada’s changing immigration requirements can feel overwhelming, especially when deadlines, documentation rules, and eligibility criteria continue to evolve. Partnering with the Best Immigration Consultancy in India ensures that applicants receive:
- Accurate interpretation of new rules
- Step-by-step application planning
- Error-free documentation
- Guidance on PR, work permits, and Express Entry categories
- Support during biometrics, medical exam scheduling, and portal submissions
Expert assistance significantly reduces the chances of delays or refusals.
How CRS Points Are Awarded for Foreign Work Experience
Foreign work experience is scored under Skill Transferability and only becomes valuable when combined with strong language test results or Canadian experience.
Foreign Experience + Language Ability
| Foreign Work Experience | With CLB 7 | With CLB 9+ |
|---|---|---|
| 0 years | 0 | 0 |
| 1–2 years | 13 | 25 |
| 3+ years | 25 | 50 |
Foreign Experience + Canadian Work Experience
| Foreign Work Experience | With 1 year Canadian Experience | With 2+ years Canadian Experience |
|---|---|---|
| 0 years | 0 | 0 |
| 1–2 years | 13 | 25 |
| 3+ years | 25 | 50 |
To unlock the maximum 50 points, candidates typically aim for:
- 3+ years of foreign experience,
- CLB 9+ in IELTS/CELPIP,
- 2+ years of Canadian work experience
Why Foreign Experience Is Still Essential for Express Entry Success
- Boosting your CRS score
- Qualifying for the Federal Skilled Worker Program
- Enhancing Skill Transferability points
- Strengthening job market readiness in Canada
Step 1: Check the Official IRCC Processing Times
IRCC routinely updates processing times. Check the posted average timelines against your application category.
Why this matters:
Too many applicants panic too early. If you are still within the normal window, IRCC will not respond to inquiries.
Step 2: Monitor your IRCC online account frequently.
- Requests for additional documents
- Biometric reminders
- Medical exam messages
- Approval or rejection updates
Remaining Calm While Your File Is in Process
- Keep all correspondence in one folder
- Track your timelines
- Keep copies of all the uploaded documents
- Set reminders for passport renewal or medical expiry
- Avoid frequent status checks that create panic.
Revised Fund of Settlement Amount for RCIP & FCIP
| Family Size | Minimum Funds Required (CAD) |
|---|---|
| 1 | $10,507 |
| 2 | $13,080 |
| 3 | $16,080 |
| 4 | $19,524 |
| 5 | $22,143 |
| 6 | $24,975 |
| 7 | $27,806 |
| Each additional member | $2,831 |
How to Get an LMIA: What Employers Need to Know
LMIA Application Process:
Step 1: Submit Application to ESDC
Employers or the company should first open the job in Canada by advertising through various portals and make genuine efforts to recruit domestically. This should be for four weeks at least. They also have to provide details about job duties, wages, and employment conditions, along with the required processing fee.
Step 2: Wait for the LMIA Decision
If the assessment by ESDC comes positive, a positive LMIA is sent to the employer with a recommended work duration.
Step 3: Share LMIA with the Worker
Final Thoughts
Applicants planning to move to Canada, either through Express Entry, PNPs, or Canada Work Permit pathways, should stay informed and take timely action to ensure a smooth process. If you need guidance tailored to your profile, partnering with the Best Immigration Consultants in India can help you move forward with confidence and accuracy.
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