Changes to the medical inadmissibility policy of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act take effect

Ottawa, March 16, 2022—The Government of Canada is taking steps to better align the medical inadmissibility policy with Canadian values on diversity and the inclusion of people with disabilities. We recognize the important contributions newcomers make to Canada.

The changes to the medical inadmissibility policy of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) have been in effect through a temporary public policy since 2018. They strike a balance between welcoming newcomers into Canadian society through a fair and compassionate immigration system, while also protecting publicly funded health and social services. The changes include:

• tripling the cost threshold for determining medical inadmissibility
• amending the definition of social services by removing special education, social and vocational rehabilitation services and personal support services

All foreign nationals who are applying for a permanent resident visa or applying to remain in Canada as a permanent resident, as well as certain categories of temporary residents, must undergo a medical examination. No health condition automatically leads to inadmissibility; rather, each case is assessed individually, taking into consideration the applicant’s immigration medical examination and the costs of services that would be needed to treat their diagnosed medical conditions.

Reducing barriers for people with disabilities is a priority for the Government of Canada. These changes will help immigration and promote inclusion for people who, despite their health condition, can make a contribution to Canada, including persons with disabilities.