Immigration
Working In Canada
If my work term is in childcare, a school, or a health services setting, do I need an IRCC medical exam before I can start working?
IRCC requires an for jobs where public health must be protected, including work involving close contact with children, students, or patients. This applies whether the work is paid or not, and regardless of the type of work authorization you hold (on-campus or off-campus work).
You will need to complete an IME if you plan to work in any of the following settings:
Health care or hospital settings
- Health care or hospital settings
- Working with children or seniors
- Primary or secondary school teaching or education settings
- Agricultural work
Please note that some employers (especially in health authorities and education) may ask for medical clearance more broadly across roles, regardless of specific job duties.
If you have not completed an IME for your current study permit and your permit may include a condition that restricts work in these settings, you cannot start working in the above fields until you completed an IME and the condition is removed from your permit.
If you would like to work in one of the settings described above, you will need to complete the steps below before starting your work
- Complete an with an IRCC-approved panel physician (before IRCC requests it).
- Apply to and include the items listed below:
- Proof of your medical exam (eMedical information sheet).
- A brief letter of explanation to IRCC confirming you plan to work in one of the settings listed above and request the removal of any related restriction on your study permit.
For a complete list of documents and the application process, review our study permit extension guide. The process of changing your study permit conditions is the same as applying for an extension.
You must wait until the updated permit is issued before beginning any work in these settings.
Based on the potential wait times to book an appointment with a panel physician and to extend or change the conditions on your study permit, we recommend starting this process at least 2 academic terms before your work term begins to avoid delays.
Important note: If you have not completed an immigration medical exam and your study permit does not prohibit you from working in the settings listed above, please contact an International Student Advisor, Immigration Specialist to discuss your situation.
How to get an immigration medical exam
Book your exam with an . After your appointment, you will receive an eMedical information sheet to include with your application to change your study permit conditions, the physician will submit the results directly to IRCC. Results are typically valid for 12 months.
Immigration medical exams are not covered under your primary or extended health insurance. Please contact the Panel Physician鈥檚 office you plan to attend for fee information.
This page was last updated on May 15, 2026.