Navigating Medical Inadmissibility for Canadian Permanent Residence

Are you thinking about applying for permanent residence in Canada? It’s an exciting journey, but there are things to keep in mind—especially when it comes to your health. One concern that could impact your application is medical inadmissibility. That sounds a bit scary, right? Don’t worry; we’re here to break it down for you!

Starting August 21, 2025, if you’re applying through Express Entry, you will need to get an upfront immigration medical exam (IME). This change means that instead of waiting for the IRCC to request your medical exam after you apply, you'll need to have this done beforehand.

Why Could You Be Seen as Medically Inadmissible?

There are three main scenarios:

1. Excessive Demand: If your health condition might create an excessive demand on Canadian health or social services, your application could be at risk. For 2025, that cost threshold is set at $27,162 per year. It’s essential to provide documentation that shows how your health condition is managed so that it doesn’t overly strain these resources.
2. Danger to Public Health: If there’s a chance that your condition could cause health risks to the public, IRCC may refuse your application. Submitting updated medical reports and documentation confirming that you’re receiving treatment for any infectious diseases can help your case!
3. Danger to Public Safety: If your medical condition poses a risk to public safety—like if you have unpredictable health issues—be sure to submit relevant medical documentation that proves you’re stable and under care.

Before a final decision is made, IRCC might send you a Procedural Fairness Letter explaining their concerns. You’ll have 90 days to respond, so make sure to gather any necessary supporting documents.

If excessive demand is a concern, you may be asked to submit a mitigation plan showing how you will cover your health needs privately. This can include proof of private health insurance and a plan for care that won’t rely on public resources.

In short, you can take proactive steps to protect your application from being refused due to health issues. Understand the risks, prepare the right documents, and you’ll be one step closer to your Canadian dream!