Immigration Medical Exam: What to Know and How to Prepare

0
225
Immigration Medical Exam: What to Know and How to Prepare

If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, one of the many things you will need to do is undergo a medical examination. The immigration medical exam, also known as an IME, is a mandatory part of the process for most immigrants. Here’s what you need to know about it.

What An Immigration Medical Exam Is For

The immigration medical exam is designed to screen for certain communicable diseases that could pose a public health threat in Canada. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has a list of conditions that are of concern, and you will be tested for these during your examination. (medsmarter.com) Make sure to get immigration medical exams from a panel physician who is designated by the embassy or consulate where you will apply for your visa. You will also be asked about your vaccination history. The CDC recommends that all immigrants be up-to-date on their vaccinations, so if you have not had all of the recommended vaccinations, you will need to get them before your IME.

What to Expect During Your Immigration Medical Exam

When you go in for your IME, you will first meet with a registered nurse or doctor. They will go over your medical history with you and ask about any current medical conditions that you have. You will then undergo a physical examination. The physical examination will include a check of your blood pressure, heart rate, and weight. You will also be asked to provide a urine sample. After the physical examination, you will be given a list of tests that you need to have done. These tests can include:

  • Blood tests: A blood test is done to screen for certain communicable diseases, such as HIV/AIDS, tuberculosis, and syphilis.
  • Chest x-ray: A chest x-ray is done to screen for tuberculosis.
  • Urinalysis: A urinalysis is done to screen for infectious diseases, such as chlamydia and gonorrhea.
  • Tuberculosis test: A tuberculosis test is done to screen for tuberculosis.

You may need to have additional tests depending on your age, health history, and vaccinations. After you have completed all of the tests, the results will be sent to a designated medical officer who will review them. If you are found to be in good health, you will be issued a medical certificate. If you are found to have a communicable disease, you may be issued a medical inadmissibility letter.

Preparing for Your Immigration Medical Exam

There are a few things that you can do to prepare for your immigration medical exam. First, make sure that you have all of the required vaccinations. Second, make an appointment with a panel physician as soon as possible. Third, gather all of your medical records, including any vaccination records, and bring them with you to your appointment. Fourth, be prepared to answer questions about your medical history and current health. Finally, follow any instructions that you are given by the panel physician regarding fasting or other special instructions.

Who Passes This Exam?

The immigration medical exam is required for most immigrants, but there are a few exceptions. If you are applying for refugee status, you may be exempt from the IME. If you have already had a medical examination as part of your application for permanent residence, you may also be exempt. Finally, if you are applying for a temporary resident visa for business or pleasure, you may not need to undergo an IME. Check with the embassy or consulate where you will apply for your visa to see if you are required to take the immigration medical exam.

What Happens if I Fail?

If you fail the immigration medical exam, you will be issued a medical inadmissibility letter. This letter will state the reason why you are inadmissible, such as having a communicable disease. If you are inadmissible, you will not be able to get a visa or enter the United States. You may be able to appeal the decision or apply for a waiver, but you will need to consult with an immigration lawyer. Some reasons for failing include:

  • Not being up-to-date on your vaccinations
  • Having a communicable disease, such as tuberculosis
  • Not having all of the required medical records
  • Failing to disclose a medical condition

What The Process Looks Like For The US

If you’re, however, planning on entering the US, the process is a little different. You will have to go through a pre-screening process at the US Embassy or Consulate where you will apply for your visa. During this pre-screening, you will be asked questions about your medical history and current health. You may also be asked to provide proof of vaccinations. If you are found to be in good health, you will be issued a medical certificate. If you are found to have a communicable disease, you may be issued a medical inadmissibility letter.

  • You will then need to schedule an appointment with a panel physician. The panel physician is a doctor who has been designated by the US government to perform immigration medical exams. You can find a list of panel physicians on the US Embassy or Consulate website where you will apply for your visa. At your appointment, the panel physician will review your medical history and current health. 

Who Doesn’t Need To Do The Exam?

You may be exempt from the immigration medical exam if you are applying for refugee status or if you have already had a medical examination as part of your application for permanent residence. You may also be exempt if you are applying for a temporary resident visa for business or pleasure. Check with the embassy or consulate where you will apply for your visa to see if you are required to take the immigration medical exam.

Immigration Medical Exam: What to Know and How to Prepare

If you are planning to immigrate to Canada, it is important to understand the immigration medical exam process. Be sure to get vaccinated and make an appointment with a panel physician as soon as possible. Gather all of your medical records and be prepared to answer questions about your health. Following these tips will help you ensure that you are able to successfully complete your IME.

LEAVE A REPLY

Please enter your comment!
Please enter your name here