Super Visa Medical Exam: What to Expect

The immigration medical exam (IME) is a required step for the super visa. It worries many families, but for the vast majority it is a routine checkup that simply confirms the applicant is in reasonable health.

Who needs the medical exam

Every super visa applicant must do the immigration medical exam, regardless of age or health. Because the super visa is for long stays, the exam is mandatory, unlike some short visitor visas.

Finding a panel physician

The exam must be done by an IRCC-approved panel physician — a regular family doctor cannot do it. IRCC publishes a search tool that lists approved panel physicians by city and country.

Book the appointment, bring the applicant's passport and any required photos, and arrive ready for a standard physical. The clinic sends results straight to IRCC, so the applicant never handles the medical paperwork.

What the exam checks

The IME is a general health check plus a few specific screens. It is not designed to fail people for ordinary illnesses.

• A review of medical history and a physical examination.
• A chest X-ray to screen for active tuberculosis.
• Blood and urine tests (which can include screening for certain infections).
• Eyesight and a general assessment of overall health.

Cost and validity

The applicant pays the clinic directly. Costs vary by country but are usually a few hundred dollars, including the X-ray and lab tests. The fee is separate from the visa and biometrics fees.

A completed medical exam is generally valid for up to 12 months. Apply for the visa within that window so the medical does not expire before a decision is made.