Changes Take Effect To The Medical Inadmissibility Policy of The Immigration and Refugee Protection Act
March 16, 2022 – it was mentioned that the Canadian government is set to take further steps to help better align the medical inadmissibility policy with Canadian values with regards to diversity as well as the inclusion of people with disabilities. In connection to this, it is said that the immigration recognizes the important contributions that the newcomers make in Canada.
Through a temporary policy made since 2018, changes with regards to the medical inadmissibility policy of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act (IRPA) took effect. Through a fair and compassionate immigration system, Canadian immigration aims to strike a balance between welcoming newcomers into the Canadian society while protecting publicly funded health and social services at the same time.
Below are the changes made by the Canadian government:
- The cost threshold for determining medical inadmissibility will be tripled
- Amending the definition of social services by means of removing special education, social and vocational rehabilitation services as well as personal support services.
A medical examination is a must for all foreign national individuals who are applying for either a permanent resident visa or applying to remain in Canada as a permanent resident; this also applies to certain categories of temporary residents. Note that no health condition automatically leads to inadmissibility, but, each case is to be individually assessed and the applicant’s immigration medical examination as well as the costs of services that would be needed to be able to treat their medical condition is to be taken into consideration.
One of Canada’s priorities is reducing barriers for individuals who have disabilities, these changes will surely help Canadian immigration as well as promote inclusion of individuals who in spite of their condition, can also make a positive contribution to Canada.
