Before entering Canada, you have to obtain a visa, and part of this process is taking a medical for immigration. If you stay for more than six months, you must take a medical exam. They will assess your overall health and screen you for infectious diseases that could pose a public health risk.
Some health concerns could make you ineligible for a visa to Canada. These include:
1. Active Tuberculosis (TB)
Most countries don’t allow entry to people with this condition because it’s highly contagious. So is Canada. However, if you have latent TB, which means that the bacteria is present in your body but isn’t causing any symptoms, you may still be able to enter. They may ask you to provide proof that you’re being treated for it.
Note that a panel-approved physician should perform your medical test. You can find the list on the Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada website. See this link if you’re nearby the Markham area.
2. HIV/AIDS
While people with HIV/AIDS are not explicitly barred from entering Canada, the immigration process is more complicated. You need to provide proof that you’re taking medication and that your condition is under control. A letter from your doctor explaining your prognosis and treatment plan may also be necessary.
Additionally, you must declare any prescription drugs you’re taking. If you don’t, you could be denied entry or detained at the airport until the proper paperwork is sorted out.
3. Active Syphilis
This sexually transmitted infection (STI) can cause serious health problems if left untreated. These include brain damage, blindness, and even death. As such, it’s on the list of conditions that could make you ineligible for a visa to Canada.
As with HIV/AIDS, if you’re taking medication and your condition is under control, you may still be able to enter. You need to provide proof of this to the immigration officer.
4. Sexual Disorders
If you have a sexual disorder that’s considered a risk to the public, you may not be allowed into Canada. For example, you will likely be denied entry if you’re a known sex offender.
The same goes for people with pedophilia, exhibitionism, voyeurism, or frotteurism. You must disclose on your immigration application if you have any of these disorders. Otherwise, it may result in a permanent ban from entering the country.
However, you may be allowed entry if you prove that you’re not a risk to the public. For example, if you’re a sex offender but have completed treatment and haven’t re-offended for a number of years, you may be allowed in.
5. Other Serious Health Conditions
Other health concerns could make you ineligible for a visa to Canada. These include:
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Epilepsy
- Active cancer (unless in remission)
- Psychosis
- A mental health disorder that’s considered a danger to yourself or others
In general, if you have a serious health condition that requires ongoing treatment, you may not be allowed into Canada. This is because the country doesn’t have the resources to provide you with the care you need. You can still apply for a Canadian visa if you have a serious health condition. You must provide proof that you can pay for all your medical expenses while in the country. You may also be asked to get travel insurance that covers your pre-existing condition. So that the government knows you won’t be a burden on the healthcare system.
You also have to note that the cost of your medical test is your responsibility, which you pay directly to the panel physician. The cost differs depending on your location and your age. You may visit this page to have an idea of the immigration medical exam prices in Markham.
In Conclusion
These are some of the health conditions that could make you ineligible for a visa to Canada. If you have any of these, it’s always best to consult with a doctor or an immigration lawyer before applying for a visa. They can help you understand the process and what you need to do to increase your approval chances.
