Do I need a medical exam for a Canadian study permit?

A medical examination may or may not be required for your Canadian study permit, depending on several factors:

When a medical exam is required:
1. Based on your country: If you have lived for 6 or more months in a country that has a higher incidence of tuberculosis (TB) in the year before applying, a medical exam is required. IRCC publishes the list of affected countries — most of South Asia, Southeast Asia, Africa, and parts of Latin America are included.
2. Length of stay: If you intend to stay in Canada for more than 6 months and are from an affected country, a medical exam is generally required.
3. Working with vulnerable populations: If you will be working with or near children or the elderly as part of your course (e.g., nursing, education placements), a medical exam is required regardless of country.
4. Certain health history: If you disclose a health condition that requires assessment.

The medical exam process:
- Book an appointment with a Designated Medical Practitioner (DMP) in your country — find one on the IRCC website
- Exam includes physical assessment, chest X-ray, and blood tests
- Results are submitted directly to IRCC — you do not handle the results
- Cost: USD 100–300 depending on country
- Valid for 12 months

When a medical exam is NOT required:
If you are from a low-risk country and studying for 6 months or less, no medical exam is needed.

How to know for sure: Use IRCC's online tool 'Find out if you need a medical exam' at canada.ca. Your online application will also prompt you if an exam is needed.