Maple News reports that while most people associate immigration inadmissibility with criminal history, medical issues render over 1,000 applicants ineligible to enter Canada each year, according to data from Statistics Canada. In fact, immigration law requires all permanent residence applicants, and some applicants for temporary visas, to undergo a medical examination by an approved physician.
Medical inadmissibility doesn’t hinge on specific diseases or conditions. There is no fixed list of ailments that will automatically disqualify someone. Instead, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) assesses each applicant’s health based on three central criteria:
1. They may pose a danger to public health;
2. They could be a risk to public safety;
3. Their medical condition may cause excessive demand on Canada’s health or social services.
To determine this, Canadian immigration officers review applicants’ standard medical test results — such as blood and urine analysis, chest X-rays — along with their medical history and mental health assessments. If the outcome of these evaluations falls within the outlined inadmissibility criteria, a candidate may be denied entry.
Being a danger to public health typically means the individual has a communicable disease that could pose a risk to the general population, such as active tuberculosis. In terms of public safety, this could include conditions like certain untreated psychiatric disorders that may result in unpredictable behavior.
The “excessive demand” clause refers to applicants whose treatment or medical care might place a burden on publicly funded services, including the healthcare system and social assistance programs. However, this rule has been softened in recent years, and families and individuals can now submit a mitigation plan to demonstrate how they’ll manage their healthcare needs privately.
Maple News advises that prospective immigrants take medical admissibility seriously when applying, especially since decisions are individualized. If you have a medical condition, being transparent and proactive in your application — such as including detailed treatment plans or showing financial preparedness — may improve your chances of approval.
Understanding the health side of the immigration process equips applicants with the knowledge to address concerns early and strengthen their case. As immigration policies continue to evolve, staying informed is key to a successful application to Canada.