According to Maple News, individuals applying for Canadian permanent residence through Express Entry should be aware of how existing medical conditions may impact their application. While having a pre-existing medical condition does not automatically mean refusal, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) may find applicants medically inadmissible under certain circumstances. However, there are proactive steps candidates can take to minimize this risk.
As of August 21, 2025, all new Express Entry applicants are required to submit an upfront Immigration Medical Exam (IME) along with their permanent residence application. This marks a significant procedural shift from previous guidelines, under which medical exams were conducted only after an application had been submitted.
There are three main grounds for medical inadmissibility, the most common being “excessive demand” on Canada’s health or social services. IRCC assesses whether the applicant’s condition could place a significant financial burden on public systems or increase service wait times. In 2025, the cost threshold used to evaluate excessive demand is $27,162 annually or $135,810 over five years. These figures may be updated periodically.
When reviewing medical demands, IRCC looks at factors like the results of the IME, the nature and progression of the condition, the projected treatment costs, and whether treatment may interfere with service access for other Canadians.
Conditions often flagged under this clause include chronic illnesses such as diabetes, kidney and heart diseases, psychiatric disorders like schizophrenia or bipolar disorder, developmental conditions including autism and Down syndrome, and infectious diseases requiring ongoing treatment, such as hepatitis B and tuberculosis.
Applicants have the opportunity to respond if they are deemed medically inadmissible. They can submit a ‘mitigation plan’ outlining strategies to reduce their use of public resources, including private treatment options or demonstrating access to personal health insurance.
Maple News advises applicants with known medical conditions to undergo a medical exam early in the process and consult with immigration professionals if their condition may raise concerns. By preparing documentation and exploring potential solutions in advance, applicants can strengthen their case and improve their chances of a successful Express Entry outcome.