Program delivery update: Who may perform an immigration medical exam
This section contains policy, procedures and guidance used by IRCC staff. It is posted on the department’s website as a courtesy to stakeholders.
April 06, 2023
The instructions on using an alternative medical practitioner to complete the immigration medical exam (dispensation) have been updated to clarify operational procedures.
The following changes are important:
- In-Canada applicants are eligible for dispensation if 1 of the following applies:
- No panel physician is able to offer services in the applicant’s preferred official language within 250 km of the applicant’s residence.
- No panel physician is able to offer services in the applicant’s preferred official language within a 4-hour drive (one way) of the applicant’s residence.
- Dispensations may be granted in exceptional cases where it would be unreasonable for the client to travel to a panel physician.
- Applicants or their representatives are to contact the IRCC Client Support Centre to submit a request for dispensation.