Maple News reports that studying in Canada continues to be an attractive opportunity for hundreds of thousands of international students each year. However, due to the rapid surge in international student admissions, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has introduced new requirements and eligibility rules—particularly concerning medical exams.
As part of the new study permit process, applicants now need to secure a Letter of Acceptance (LOA) from a Designated Learning Institution (DLI), obtain a provincial attestation letter, and then submit their study permit application to IRCC.
In some cases, however, international students may also be required to undergo a medical examination before beginning their studies in Canada. According to IRCC guidelines, a medical exam is mandatory if any of the following conditions apply:
– The applicant is from a designated visa-required country or territory
– The applicant intends to stay in Canada for more than six months
– The applicant is a medical student
– The applicant plans to work in healthcare or another sector involving close contact with vulnerable populations, such as children or the elderly
IRCC has also implemented a temporary public policy—effective until October 6, 2024—that may exempt certain applicants from undergoing an additional medical exam. To qualify, individuals must be applying for temporary or permanent residence and meet all of the following criteria:
– They are currently residing in Canada
– They have previously completed a medical exam within the last five years
– Their prior exam showed a low or no risk to public health or safety
This policy aims to simplify the process and reduce redundancy for applicants already assessed within a reasonable timeframe.
Applicants should also note that medical exam requirements vary depending on the type of residency they are applying for. Temporary residents—including international students—follow a different set of procedures compared to those applying for permanent residency. It’s crucial for students to review the latest IRCC guidelines or consult with a professional to ensure compliance and avoid delays.
With Canada remaining a top destination for global education, understanding the medical exam policy is a key step in navigating the study permit process smoothly and successfully.