Tag Express Entry

A woman holding an approval stamp beside a five-year calendar illustrating the IRCC 5-year IME exemption for in-Canada immigration applicants who completed a previous medical exam within the last five years

The 5-Year IME Exemption for In-Canada Applicants: Who Qualifies and How to Claim It (2026)

Already living in Canada and applying for permanent or temporary residence? You may not need to complete a new immigration medical exam. IRCC's temporary public policy exempts eligible in-Canada applicants from a repeat IME if they completed one within the last five years and their previous results were low risk — and the policy has been extended until October 5, 2029. This guide covers the four conditions you must meet, how to claim the exemption, and what to do if IRCC determines you do not qualify.

A doctor handing a document to a patient at a clinic reception desk with a clock and calendar visible on the wall representing the Canadian immigration medical exam duration and 12-month results validity period

How Long Does the Canadian Immigration Medical Exam Take? And How Long Are Results Valid?

Two timing questions matter most when planning your Canadian immigration medical exam: how long will the appointment take, and how long will your results stay valid? This guide answers both — plus how quickly results reach IRCC, what happens if they expire before your application is decided, and how to time your exam correctly for Express Entry, family sponsorship, and permit applications.

A Canadian immigration document with a case number circled in red next to a Canadian passport illustrating where to find the IRCC client identification number or UCI

What Is the IRCC Client Identification Number (UCI)? A Complete Guide for Immigration Applicants

The IRCC client identification number — also called a UCI or unique client identifier — is the personal reference number that follows you through every Canadian immigration application you will ever make. This guide explains what it is, where to find it on your documents, when you will need it, and what to do if you are a first-time applicant who does not have one yet.