Most immigration systems require a medical examination as part of the visa, residency, or citizenship application process. These exams are not just about general health—they’re designed to screen for communicable diseases, ensure the applicant won’t pose a public health risk, and in some cases, verify that the applicant won’t be an undue burden on the healthcare system.
Each country has its own medical standards, authorized physicians, timing requirements, and list of disqualifying conditions. This guide breaks down the key medical exam expectations in major immigration destinations so you can prepare in advance and avoid unnecessary delays or surprises.
United States
For most immigrant and certain nonimmigrant visa categories, a medical exam is required and must be conducted by a USCIS-approved civil surgeon (in the U.S.) or a panel physician (abroad).
Key requirements:
- Required for green card (adjustment of status) and K-1 fiancé(e) visas
- Includes TB screening, syphilis test, gonorrhea test, vaccination verification
- Must be completed within 60 days of submitting Form I-693
- No fasting required, but applicants must bring vaccination records and a government-issued ID
Medical disqualifiers:
- Untreated TB
- Certain vaccine-preventable diseases without proof of immunization
- Drug abuse or addiction
- Certain mental health conditions with associated harmful behavior
USCIS accepts the sealed I-693 form only. Do not open it before submission.
Canada
Canada requires a medical exam for permanent residency applicants, some temporary foreign workers, and certain students or visitors staying more than six months.
Exams must be conducted by an IRCC-approved panel physician.
Tests include:
- Physical examination
- Chest X-ray (for applicants 11+)
- Urine and blood tests
- Screening for TB, syphilis, HIV, and other communicable diseases
Important notes:
- Results are valid for 12 months
- Exams must be done before submission of some applications (e.g., Express Entry)
Medical inadmissibility may apply to those whose condition could cause excessive demand on health or social services, although exemptions exist for certain humanitarian cases.
United Kingdom
The UK does not require a full immigration medical exam in most cases but does require TB testing for residents of certain countries applying for visas longer than six months.
TB test:
- Mandatory for applicants from over 100 listed countries
- Must be conducted at an approved clinic
- A certificate is issued, valid for 6 months
No general physical or lab testing is required unless applying under specific healthcare worker programs.
Australia
Australia requires health examinations for most permanent visas and some temporary visas, including student and partner visas.
Requirements vary by risk factors:
- Chest X-ray for applicants 11+ from high TB-risk countries
- Medical exam and blood tests for HIV, Hepatitis B/C (for healthcare workers or pregnant women)
- Additional tests for applicants 75+ (e.g., ECG, functional tests)
Exams must be conducted by a panel physician listed on the Department of Home Affairs website. Results are uploaded electronically via eMedical.
Disqualifiers include conditions that may pose a public health threat or place undue cost burden on the Australian healthcare system.
Germany
Germany generally does not mandate a comprehensive immigration medical exam. However:
- Student visa applicants may need a basic medical certificate
- Long-stay visa applicants may be asked for proof of health insurance and general fitness
For asylum seekers and refugees, screening for infectious diseases (especially TB) is mandatory upon arrival and is handled by public health authorities.
Portugal
Portugal does not typically require a formal medical exam for visa applicants. However:
- Proof of private health insurance is mandatory for most long-stay visa types (D7, D2, Golden Visa)
- TB tests or vaccination certificates may be requested on a case-by-case basis, especially for students and minors
In some cases, especially when applying through consulates abroad, applicants may be asked to submit a general fitness certificate from a physician.
Thailand
Thailand’s Non-Immigrant visas (such as retirement or marriage visas) often require:
- A basic medical certificate from a licensed physician declaring the applicant is free from contagious diseases (leprosy, tuberculosis, elephantiasis, drug addiction, alcoholism)
- Some consulates may require HIV testing
Exams can typically be completed at local clinics or hospitals, and the certificate must be dated within 30 days of submission.
Frequently Required Documents for Medical Exams
- Valid passport or national ID
- Visa or application reference number (if available)
- Previous vaccination records
- List of current medications
- Copies of prior medical conditions or reports (especially for chronic illness)
Tips for a Smooth Exam Process
- Use only designated panel physicians or civil surgeons listed by the immigration authority
- Schedule early—appointments may fill quickly, especially in high-demand cities
- Eat normally before the exam unless otherwise instructed
- Bring your glasses if you wear them, as vision testing may be included
- Be honest—concealing conditions can lead to bans or long-term refusals
Medical exams are not meant to be intimidating. They are procedural safeguards designed to protect public health and help governments plan resources. In many countries, a health issue does not automatically mean a denial—it depends on severity, treatment options, and the visa category.
Understanding what’s required for your specific country can prevent costly delays and provide peace of mind. If you’re unsure whether a medical exam applies to your application, consult the immigration authority’s website or speak with a licensed advisor. Preparing early is always the best medicine.
