Medical Inadmissibility in Canadian Immigration: What You Need to Know
Part 1 of our Inadmissibility Series
The Three Grounds for Medical Inadmissibility
1. Danger to Public Health Focuses on infectious diseases like active tuberculosis or syphilis that could endanger Canadian residents.
2. Danger to Public Safety Addresses conditions that could cause sudden incapacity or unpredictable/violent behaviour.
3. Excessive Demand on Health or Social Services The most common ground. Your condition causes excessive demand if treatment costs exceed $135,810 over five years ($27,162 annually) or would negatively affect wait times for Canadian residents.
Key Exemptions
Medical inadmissibility rules for excessive demand don't apply to refugees, protected persons, and certain family-sponsored applicants (spouses, dependent children, common-law partners).
The Medical Examination Process
All permanent residence applicants must undergo an Immigration Medical Examination (IME) with an IRCC-designated physician. Medical officers assign M codes:
M1-M3: Generally admissible
M4-M6: May face inadmissibility concerns
Your Rights: Procedural Fairness
If deemed potentially inadmissible, you'll receive a procedural fairness letter giving you 90 days to respond with:
Updated medical information
Evidence of improved condition
Mitigation plans showing private funding
Proof of insurance coverage
Overcoming Medical Inadmissibility
Many applicants succeed through:
Updated medical evidence showing improvement
Private funding arrangements to avoid public system costs
Mitigation plans demonstrating self-sufficiency
Comprehensive insurance covering specific needs
Common Manageable Conditions
Well-controlled diabetes
Managed hypertension
Stable mental health conditions
Many chronic conditions with modern treatment
Medical inadmissibility doesn't end your Canadian immigration journey. With proper preparation and professional guidance, most challenges can be overcome.
This article is part of our comprehensive Inadmissibility Series. Stay tuned for our next article covering criminal inadmissibility and rehabilitation options.
Need Help with Medical Inadmissibility? Contact Arrowood Immigration Services Inc. for a consultation about your specific situation. Our experienced team can help you understand your options and develop a strategy for success.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. Immigration laws and policies change frequently. Always consult with a qualified immigration professional for advice specific to your situation.
