IME for Refugees – process and requirements explained by IME Clinic located across Lower Mainland, BC
Updated on April 28th, 2023
As a Refugee claimant you are exempt from IME for Refugees fees and some other inadmissibility rules! Read further to learn more.
Refugee status in Canada is given to some people who fear persecution or danger in their home country. Find out here if you are eligible for refugee protection. Whether you are a refugee or just applying for immigration, you have to go through an Immigration Medical Exam.
As well, family members of refugee claimants must also have an IME.
When do refugees get the IME?
If applying for refugee status beforehand, you will receive instructions on getting a medical exam from the government. Then, you must get the IME within 30 days of receiving these instructions.
If making a refugee claim at the border or port of entry, the border officer will give you the notice to get an exam within 30 days.
What do refugees bring for their IME?
You must bring at least 1 piece of government-issued identification. If getting an upfront medical exam, you must also bring the IMM1017E form.
How does the IME work for refugees?
The IME is overall the same for refugees as it is for permanent and temporary resident applicants. The panel physician will give you a physical examination and do a urinalysis. Then, he/she will refer you to do a chest x-ray and blood test.
Do refugees need to pay for the IME?
Refugees are exempt from all IME fees, including the fee for the panel physician and the fees for the special tests (x-ray, urinalysis, bloodwork). However, this is only for the first visit. If they miss the 30-day period after submitting their claim, they will need to pay for their next IME out of pocket.
What happens if a refugee claimant is medically inadmissible?
A refugee may be medically inadmissible if they are a danger to public health or safety. However, refugees are exempt from the “excessive demand threshold” rule. This means that refugees will not be refused entry to Canada based on their excessive medical needs.
To learn more about Canada inadmissibility, please check our blogs; immigration obstacles, common medical issues that could affect your application and what happens if you fail your Canadian IME.
Thank you for reading with us and learning more about IME for refugees process and procedure. Find more informative blogs on our resources page, and don’t forget to share with your friends and family. Additionally, to stay updated with immigration news, check our website for weekly/bi-weekly updates. Alternatively, connect with us via our Facebook or Instagram page to get notified of our recent posts.
Furthermore, if you require IME, please book online at our location nearest to you.
Moreover, we at IME Clinic accept patients from all over Canada and we have multiple locations in Lower Mainland, BC (Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, Coquitlam, Langley and more). Whether you come from Vancouver, Burnaby, Surrey, or even Toronto, Montreal or Calgary, we are here to help you!
We wish you luck with your family reunification!