Immigration X-Ray

An X-ray image is produced when a small amount of radiation is passed through a body part to create an image. The image is produced as a result of the ways in which different internal structures absorb the radiation.

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) requires all individuals applying for permanent residency and certain individuals applying for temporary residency to undergo an immigration medical examination, which includes a chest X-ray. This exam is to be performed on patients above 11 years of age.

The objective of this chest X-ray is to detect active tuberculosis in immigrants prior to arrival in Canada to ensure that they are treated and are no longer infectious upon arrival.

These exams can only be requested by IRCC-approved doctors. One of these doctors will give you a requisition form and other paperwork outlining your need for this exam. You will then be directed to go to one of the clinics approved to perform these exams. These X-rays are offered on a walk-in basis, appointments are not required. Applicants must bring their immigration medical examination, unique medical identifier, or unique client identifier numbers with them to their X-ray exam.

Note: For applicants trying to immigrate to New Zealand and Australia, these immigration chest X-rays can only be performed at Mayfair Place.

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

• Please provide your passport or photo identification, your requisition, and your provincial health card, if you have one.
• If you require a translator, please bring someone with you, if possible.
• Please do not bring children who require supervision, if possible. They cannot be in the room while radiation is being applied.
• You will be asked to remove any metal objects, such as jewelry, watches, hair clips, pins, and clothes with metal buttons, zippers, or snaps.
• Women between the ages of 11-55 will be asked about the possibility of pregnancy.
• If you are or may be pregnant, you will be asked to sign a consent form, explaining the radiation risks, before proceeding with the exam.
• If you require assistance changing or moving, please bring someone to help you, if possible.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

• You will be asked to change into a gown. For this exam, hair is required to be up and away from the chest.
• You will be asked to apply two lead ball nipple markers to distinguish between nipple shadows and lesions in the chest. These are held on with adhesive and are easily removed after the exam.
• The technologist will help you move into different positions standing with your chest against an upright board. You will be asked to take a deep breath and hold it while the X-ray is being taken.
• You will be reminded to remain very still while the X-ray is being taken.
• Once the technologist has confirmed that the image is of good quality, you will be free to leave. For out-of-town patients, the radiologist will review the images before you leave the clinic.

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

Your X-ray images will be reviewed by a specialized radiologist who will compile a report that is sent to your doctor and uploaded to eMedical. Please consult with your doctor regarding your results and any follow up exams or questions.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

There is a cost for this exam, unless you have refugee status. This can be paid with Visa, MasterCard, debit, or cash.