What is the Canadian Student Visa Medical Test Like?

After going through the very challenging processes of researching universities, applying for admission, and obtaining your acceptance letter, have in mind that you still need to obtain a Canadian student visa, and one of the final requirements for a Canadian student visa is a medical exam report.

This is a very significant component in both temporary and permanent residency applications. Note that students who intend to study in Canada for more than six months will have to carry out this medical examination to validate that they are healthy.

To carry out this exam, the applicant will directly contact the specified physician pre-approved by Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) for an upfront medical examination. For applicants who decide to have their own examination after applying, instructions will be made available to guarantee that the exam is carried out within 30 days of receiving the instructions from the governing body.

After conducting the examination, the applicant will receive a document from the physician confirming the medical examination and all these reports will be sent to the IRCC.

Regardless of the type of medical examination, you should keep a copy of the report given to you by the panel physician as proof of your immigration medical exam. If you feel unsatisfied with how the panel physician or panel radiologist carried out your medical examination, you may complain using IRCC’s Webform or contact the client support center. 

Common Tests for Canadian Student Visa Medical Examination

An applicant for a Canadian student visa can be denied entry into the country based on medical inadmissibility. However, when going for your medical examination, here are some of the most common tests to expect;

1. Blood Tests

During your medical examination, a blood test will be carried out to analyze the functioning of your liver and kidney, and your total blood count (RBCs, WBCs, hemoglobin, and platelets). The blood test will also be used to check for the presence of different types of Hepatitis, HPV, and HIV. The pathologist will take a blood serum sample to carry out all these tests.

2. Urine Test

The essence of a urine test is to check if you are suffering from any medical conditions, such as urinary tract infections (UTIs), kidney disorders, diabetes, liver problems, and metabolic conditions.

Before you undergo a urine test, you should make available complete information about any prescribed medications and supplements you are taking since medication can affect urinalysis results. If you are suffering from any medical problems, make sure to come with a verifiable letter that notes your medical conditions and prescribed medicines issued by your physician.

3. Chest X-ray

The test will be used to determine the presence of shortness of breath, fever, persistent cough, chest pain, and injury. In addition, it will be used to determine and monitor treatments for various lung conditions, including pneumonia, cancer, and emphysema.

Things to Carry During Your Canadian Student Visa Medical Examination

During your medical test for a Canada student visa, you will be expected to come with the following documents:

1. An identification proof. You must come with at least one government document that has your photograph and signature enclosed in it. It can be your passport or any national identity card.
2. If you wear eyeglasses or contact lenses, don’t forget to come with them during the test.
3. Medical reports and test results, if any. If you have any pre-existing reports or medical conditions, don’t forget to come with all necessary documents associated with the same.
4. A list of medications that you are currently using.
5. The medical report form (IMM 1017E), if you did not go for any upfront medical examination. You will receive the form after you apply for the visa.
6. Don’t forget to reach out to your panel physician to check if they use eMedical. If your panel physician does not use eMedical, ensure to carry four recent photographs.
7. Proof of previous vaccinations for Covid-19 if you have one. However, it is not mandatory, as the panel physician will include the record with your examination.
8. If you are expected to pass any other tests and x-rays, you may be asked to produce your identification again.

How Much Does Canadian Student Visa Medical Test Cost

You will have to pay the fees of your Canadian student visa Medical Exam, including the initial exam fee coupled with any extra diagnostics or specialist referrals that may be necessary. The total fee will vary depending on what diagnostics are required, the panel physician visited, the age, and the health status of the applicant.

However, expect the cost for your Canadian student visa Medical Exam to range from $150 CAD to $280 CAD. In addition, note that the IRCC does not refund the fees paid during or as a result of your medical tests, just in case of your visa application is denied. 

What You Should Expect During Your Canadian Student Visa Medical Test

You must have a medical examination if you intend to study in Canada. Nonetheless, below is a breakdown of the various you should expect during your medical exam:

• The clinic staff will first request a document to validate your identity. If you are going for any additional tests, you will be asked for your identification again. Also, note that a picture will be taken for record.
• The doctor will then complete a medical history questionnaire concerning any existing or previous medical conditions. Also, expect to be asked if you are taking any medication currently.
• After this, you will undergo a series of physical examination testing that includes the following:
  • Weight
  • Height
  • Hearing and Vision
  • Blood Pressure
  • Pulse
  • Heartbeat and Breathing
  • Abdomen
  • Limbs and Skin
• Note that the panel doctor is not expected to examine your rectal area or genitals mainly because they are not required for the visa medical exam. However, if necessary they may examine your breasts.
• Aside from the above, you may be asked to carry out chest x-rays or other laboratory tests and abnormal results detected would be discussed by the doctor itself.
• If you are also expected to go for any advance testing depending on the results of your medical exam, you are asked to complete this request as soon as possible.

Conclusion

Truth be told, the medical report obtained after you must have undergone a medical examination is a very vital immigration document that can have a critical impact on your chances of successfully obtaining a Canadian student visa.

If you pass the medical exam, then this report will remain valid for 12 months from the date of the medical assessment. Note that this validity period is the same regardless of if the examination was carried out in Canada or a foreign country.