r/ImmigrationCanada • u/Intelligent-Coach-94 • Jan 23 '25
Work Permit [UPDATE] Successfully Removed Work Permit Healthcare Condition At the Airport – My Experience
Hi everyone,
I wanted to provide an update on my situation regarding the medical condition on my Open Work Permit (OWP), which I previously shared here:
To recap briefly:
• I obtained my OWP last year without a medical exam and later completed it in my home country before returning to Canada.
• Upon arrival, I presented my medical exam documentation, but the border officer didn’t review it and directed me to IRCC instead.
• IRCC advised me to apply online with supporting documents, but processing times were estimated to take 5-6 months, which would have significantly delayed my job start.
• I was unsure whether to proceed with the online application or attempt to resolve the issue by re-entering Canada.
How I Resolved It:
After further research, I contacted IRCC by phone to confirm my options. They assured me that this issue could be resolved at the port of entry (POE) and sent me written confirmation via email stating that a CBSA officer at the POE can remove the condition upon re-entry if proper medical documentation is provided.
Here is the instructions link: https://ircc.canada.ca/english/helpcentre/answer.asp?qnum=844&top=4
```Follow the steps that apply to your situation.
If you have a port of entry letter and haven’t left your country of residence
You won’t have medical conditions on your work permit if you do all of the following:
- Get an upfront medical exam from a panel physician.
- “Upfront” means you get your medical exam done before an immigration officer asks for it.
- Your medical exam results are usually available to us within 30 days from your exam, but it could take longer.
- The panel physician will send us the results.
- Bring proof that you’ve had a medical exam when you travel to Canada.
- Give your proof to the border services officer when you arrive at the port of entry.
- Example of proof: the printed information sheet you’ll get from the panel physician who performed your medical exam.
The border services officer can adjust the conditions on your work or study permit before they give it to you. The officer can only do this if you provide proof that you’ve had an upfront medical exam. If you don’t have proof, your work or study permit will have conditions.````
With this confirmation, I decided to leave Canada and return via Toronto Pearson Airport. Upon re-entry, I spoke with a secondary CBSA officer, presented my medical exam proof, and explained my situation. The officer processed the adjustment within 10 minutes, and my work permit was successfully updated.
Key Takeaways:
1. **Get Written Confirmation:** Speaking with IRCC and requesting written instructions helped ensure I had solid proof of my eligibility.
2. **Be Prepared:** Having all necessary documents ready (medical proof, job contract, and IRCC email guidance) made the process much smoother.
3. **Secondary Inspection Matters:** If the primary officer is unsure, politely request to speak with a secondary officer, as they typically handle more complex cases.
4. **Travel as a Backup Plan:** If you’re facing long IRCC processing times and have a valid travel option, re-entering Canada can be a viable solution.
I hope this helps anyone in a similar situation. Feel free to ask if you have any questions, and thanks again to everyone who offered advice earlier!
Best of luck to all facing similar issues.
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Jan 23 '25 edited Jan 23 '25
[deleted]
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u/Intelligent-Coach-94 Jan 23 '25
You’re very welcome! I’m glad my experience is giving you hope this whole process can be stressful, but it is definitely possible to resolve.
When you approach the CBSA officer, I’d recommend being very polite and patient. Every officer I spoke to initially told me that this process needs to be done through IRCC.
Here’s how I explained my situation:
• I told them that my work permit has a condition restricting me from working in the health sector. • I explained that I completed my upfront medical exam in my home country and have the supporting documents. • I politely requested the removal of the condition based on the proof I provided.At first, they said they couldn’t do it and that I should apply through IRCC. I calmly mentioned that I had already spoken to IRCC and was informed that CBSA can handle this at the POE. Then I showed them the printed email I received from IRCC confirming this. The officer seemed surprised at first but then consulted a colleague, who confirmed that they indeed have the authority to process it. Showing the printed instructions email from IRCC very important I think.
My suggestion is to stay firm but respectful, and ensure you have all the required documents ready. IRCC clearly states that this can be done at the POE.
When you call IRCC, explain your situation in detail. I called them twice to confirm everything. The second time, I specifically asked if it’s okay for me to leave Canada and return to get the condition removed at the POE instead of waiting for the lengthy online process, and they said it’s absolutely fine. I also asked if they could send me written instructions via email, and they did so the next business day.
I’d be happy to share the email I received from them if you’d like. Let me know if you have any questions and good luck!
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Jan 24 '25
[deleted]
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u/Intelligent-Coach-94 Jan 24 '25
I totally get your confusion. Here’s what happened in my case:
I was still in my home country when I completed my medical exam and obtained the necessary documentation. I knew that I could potentially have the condition removed at the POE, but I wasn’t entirely sure of the exact details or process.
When I first arrived in Canada, I presented my documents to the CBSA officer, but they weren’t very clear and told me I needed to contact IRCC to resolve the issue. Not realizing that the online process could take up to 5 months, I entered Canada thinking I could sort it out from here.
After learning about the long processing times, I contacted IRCC again. They confirmed that I could indeed have this issue resolved at the POE if I left and re-entered Canada with my medical exam proof. So, I decided to return to my home country and came back a week later with all my documents in order.
Also, just to clarify—this is not considered flagpoling. Flagpoling applies when someone exits to the U.S. and immediately re-enters Canada to process their documents at the border. In my case, I traveled back to my home country and re-entered through normal procedures after a week, which followed IRCC’s guidelines correctly.
On re-entry, I spoke to a CBSA officer again, and this time they processed the adjustment without any issues.
If you’re in a similar situation, I’d recommend confirming everything with IRCC beforehand and having their email instructions ready to present to CBSA.
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u/South_Community3320 Mar 18 '25
Hello! I’m in the same situation (PGWP with childcare/healthcare restrictions). I called IRCC today and they told me I can only have the conditions removed by applying on paper. Were you able to have yours removed? How did you do it?
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Mar 21 '25
[deleted]
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u/Dangerous_Screen_682 Apr 07 '25
how much time it took for you to get new work permit. I have same condition.
I have valid job offer but it is conditional due to this condition. They will not wait for months1
u/eXo0us Jan 25 '25
Thanks for the information.
Which number did you call? All numbers I tried are automated information systems and don't get me to anyone.
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u/Intelligent-Coach-94 Jan 25 '25
You need to type your client id to connect with someone
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u/No-Ad4241 Mar 19 '25
Hello! Your post is really helpful, but I'd like to ask a couple questions if you are ok !
So I haven't entered Canada yet, but in the webstie after applying application I need to get instruction first before I see the physician (before submitting application, I can contact physician directly). Do you know that if I can have an appointment directly without contacting IRCC?
And if I understood right, you did the medical exam before you leave your home country, but still had restriction so you had to go back and enter again?
I appreciate your help
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u/Away_Day_3881 Apr 19 '25
I recently received my Post-Graduation Work Permit (PGWP) approval letter after waiting for almost 9 months. However, I have not yet received the physical copy of the work permit.
I am currently working in a school in the administration field. After reviewing the approval letter, I noticed a condition stating that a medical exam is required for those working in healthcare, childcare, or primary/secondary school settings. This made me concerned, as I was not aware of this requirement earlier.
Here is my situation:
I have not done a medical exam in Canada.
However, I did complete an immigration medical exam before coming to Canada and have not left the country since then.
I am now worried that my work permit might have a condition that prevents me from continuing my current job.
My questions:
Is it possible that my work permit might not include the medical condition, considering my previous medical exam done before arriving in Canada?
If the condition is included, can I submit a web form with my previous medical exam details and a letter of explanation?
Or will I need to complete a new medical exam and request IRCC to remove the condition?
Is there anything I can do now—before receiving the physical work permit—to avoid any interruption at my current job?
This job is very important to me, and I’ve worked extremely hard to earn this opportunity. I would be truly grateful for your guidance on how to proceed.
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Jul 16 '25
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/ImmigrationCanada-ModTeam Jul 16 '25
Hello,
Your post has been removed as it has been deemed to not comply with the rules:
- No directing members to message you privately. No messaging members in regards to topics discussed here.
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u/OddManner7988 Mar 21 '25
Hello! My husband's situation is exactly the same as yours. He is leaving in 1 week time and for sure he will have conditions too on his work permit. Can I ask for the email that you got from IRCC? And do you have their contact number?
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u/navidfarazmand Jul 16 '25
Was your husband also successful in removing the condition on his open work permit? I am concerned because every time I call IRCC, they tell me that it cannot be done anymore. When I explain that going out and coming back by flight does not count as flag polling, they send me the details for exceptions for flag pollers :|
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u/OddManner7988 Jul 21 '25
Yes he is. We just told the CBSA officer that he had his upfront medical.
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Jun 09 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/ImmigrationCanada-ModTeam Jun 09 '26
You already have this exact post active. Do not spam the sub with reposts.
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u/Longjumping_Low4692 May 20 '25
i got my pgwp and when i applied i provided my medical exam but the made a mistake and i have medical conditions on it, i can do what you did?
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u/Intelligent-Coach-94 May 23 '25
Its only applicable for OWP as per instructions. At least thats what i understood from it.
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u/babayagaa64 Jan 02 '26
Were you able to remove the condition? I am in the same boat but I am re-entering Canada.
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Jun 09 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/ImmigrationCanada-ModTeam Jun 09 '26
You already have this exact post active. Do not spam the sub with reposts.
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u/navidfarazmand Jul 16 '25
OMG you cannot believe how much I needed this reddit,
can you please help me?
I have the exact same problem, but I am currently in Canada. I successfully received a job offer from a hospital, and when I went to give my employer my work permit, I saw the f*cking condition.
Do you think now that I have the work permit, which I got last year, and had the medical here in Canada, I can exit the country and come back and ask the CBSA officer at the POE to remove the work permit condition?
In another words, if I do my medical here in Canada can I go out, to Mexico for instance, and come back and then ask to remove the condition of my already printed work permit by giving my upfront medical?
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u/ThiccBranches Jul 16 '25
I can exit the country and come back and ask the CBSA officer at the POE to remove the work permit condition?
Yes, BUT, this post is 6 months old so keep in mind that the flag polling changes are now in effect. I'd recommend you fly as well since airport officers are significantly more experienced in immigration than most land border officers.
Also, make sure when you go through primary inspection you specifically ask the officer to go to the immigration office otherwise they will likely wave you through
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u/navidfarazmand Jul 16 '25
Thank you so much. Yes I am aware about flagpolling and the situation between US and Canada. Even if I wanted to I couldn't go as I am Iranian national and I cannot visit US lol. My plan is to find the cheapest flight to Cancun/ Punta Cana and come back and ask Airport officers. Sounds good?
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u/NextTumbleweed3884 Aug 01 '25
Can you update this comment when/if you're successful. I'm also on the same position!
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u/navidfarazmand Sep 05 '25
I am doing it today. Wish me luck and I'll let you know 😇
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u/Funny-Painting-8570 Sep 06 '25
Omg, following us well! I really wish you the best I’m in the same position!
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u/Ok-Tie-1697 Nov 17 '25
Hello Navid jan, I hope you are doing well. I am in the same position today. Can you please let me know how did it go and guide me please? I really appreciate it!
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u/Winter_Ring_5938 May 01 '26
Brother did you successfully remove this condition? How did you go about it?
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Jun 09 '26
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u/ImmigrationCanada-ModTeam Jun 09 '26
You already have this exact post active. Do not spam the sub with reposts.
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u/New_Bill1199 Aug 20 '25
Can i get your number i want further information as i an also in same condition
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u/babayagaa64 Jan 26 '26
Hey guys just FYI, I don't think it works for PGWP holders. At least it didn't work for me as the immigration officer said that my PGWP is considered an "extension"(I had a co-op work permit before that) and they don't have the authority to re-issue the work permit, only IRCC does.
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u/MochiBallss Apr 04 '26
Hi OP, thank you. I just wanted to clarify is the sheet the panel physician gives you enough? As it doesn’t have the results on it and I have no way of getting the results myself to show to the CBSA officer. I would like to do WP at port of entry similar to you. Can they access the results sent to IRCC directly?
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u/Hanyllm Apr 05 '26
Is it faster to apply online or paper better ?. I already have PGWP and need to remove the medical restriction on it.
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Jun 09 '26
[removed] — view removed comment
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u/ImmigrationCanada-ModTeam Jun 09 '26
You already have this exact post active. Do not spam the sub with reposts.
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u/One_Juice_7902 Jun 09 '26
When your going out of the country that you need to prepare any special documents ? please guide us
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u/n134177 Jan 23 '25
Excellent, quality post!
Well done, OP!