As of October 21, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has officially ended the facilitation period that allowed Express Entry applicants to submit their permanent residence (PR) applications without an upfront Immigration Medical Examination (IME). Under the new completeness check standards, any Express Entry application missing a valid IME will now be returned or rejected. This significant policy shift is part of IRCC’s ongoing effort to streamline processing timelines, enhance accuracy, and improve public health compliance across Canada’s immigration system.

This change impacts all major Express Entry categories, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP), Canadian Experience Class (CEC), and Federal Skilled Trades Program (FSTP) as well as candidates applying under Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs) through Express Entry.

Why IRCC Ended the Medical Exam Facilitation Period

The facilitation measure was introduced temporarily during the COVID-19 period, when access to medical exam appointments was limited globally. Applicants were permitted to submit their PR applications and complete medical exams later, upon IRCC’s request.

Now that global operations have normalized, IRCC has reinstated its standard medical documentation requirements.

Key Reasons for the change Include

• Restoring completeness check integrity for all permanent residence files.
• Reducing post-submission delays caused by missing documents.
• Enhancing IRCC’s capacity to process applications faster.
• Aligning medical standards across both federal and provincial immigration programs.

By enforcing upfront medical exams, IRCC aims to prevent incomplete applications from slowing down the system, allowing well-prepared applicants to move through the process more efficiently.

What This Means for Express Entry Candidates in 2025

From now on, all Express Entry applicants must complete and include proof of their Immigration Medical Examination (IME) at the time of PR submission. Failure to meet this requirement will result in immediate application rejection under the completeness check stage before the file even enters the processing queue.

Here’s What Applicants Need to Do

1. Book your medical exam with an IRCC-approved panel physician before you submit your application.
2. Upload the IMM 1017B form (or proof of medical completion) along with your Express Entry documents.
3. Ensure that the medical report is valid for at least 12 months at the time of PR approval.
4. If your IME expires while your application is still in process, IRCC may request a re-exam before the final decision.

This update applies to all new applications submitted on or after October 21, 2025, regardless of whether a candidate received an Invitation to Apply (ITA) before that date.

IRCC’s New Completeness Check: What Officers Will Review

Under the 2025 completeness check standards, IRCC officers will verify that each Express Entry submission includes the required supporting documents, including:

Applications missing any mandatory document will no longer be placed “on hold” — instead, they will be returned as incomplete, requiring re-submission through a new Express Entry profile.

Ensuring Accuracy and Faster Processing

This policy reform reflects IRCC’s broader push to streamline PR processing and reduce backlogs. The August 2025 internal directive had already mandated upfront IMEs to improve the quality of submissions received under Express Entry.

The benefits of this change include:

• Faster decision-making, since officers don’t need to wait for post-submission documents.
• Reduced application errors, improving approval rates.
• More predictable timelines for applicants.
• Enhanced public health assurance, as all newcomers are medically screened before arrival.

However, the responsibility now falls squarely on applicants and representatives to ensure that all documentation, including the medical exa,m is completed before submission.

Common Mistakes to Avoid in 2025

With the new completeness rules in effect, even small documentation oversights can result in rejection.

Here are the most frequent mistakes Express Entry applicants should avoid:

• Submitting an outdated or incomplete medical report.
• Uploading incorrect file formats or unreadable scans.
• Forgetting to include the IMM 1017B form issued by the panel physician.
• Assuming previous medical exams (from work or study permits) are still valid.

Always confirm your medical exam’s status through IRCC’s eMedical system or directly with your physician before submission.

How to Complete Your Immigration Medical Exam (IME)

1. Visit IRCC’s panel physician list and book an appointment in your country of residence.
2. Bring a valid ID (passport) and your IME number or ITA letter.
3. The physician will conduct a physical exam, chest X-ray, and lab tests.
4. Results are uploaded electronically to IRCC’s eMedical system.
5. You’ll receive a confirmation printout or reference number to include in your PR application.

Pro Tip: Always schedule your IME 2–3 weeks before submission to ensure results are transmitted on time.

The IRCC medical exam policy update for Express Entry reinforces the importance of preparedness and compliance for all immigration applicants. With stricter completeness checks in 2025, success now depends on submitting fully accurate and verified documentation from the start.

To stay ahead of these evolving policies, follow ImmigCanada for the latest Canada immigration news, Express Entry updates, and expert guidance. Our team of regulated consultants (RCICs) and immigration writers ensures you receive timely, reliable information that helps you file stronger, faster, and smarter applications. Stay informed. Stay ready. Stay Canada-bound with ImmigCanada.