Planning to move to Singapore? One essential step in the immigration process is completing the ICA medical check-up. This mandatory medical check-up ensures that applicants meet the health requirements set by Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority (ICA).
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about the ICA medical check-up, from what it entails to how you can prepare for a smooth and hassle-free experience.
What is an ICA Medical Check Up?
An ICA medical check-up is a standardized medical examination mandated by Singapore’s Immigration and Checkpoints Authority. This screening is required for individuals applying for various immigration documents, permanent resident, student passes, and long-term social visit passes.
The medical form serves as official documentation that you meet Singapore’s health requirements. Without this completed assessment, your immigration application cannot proceed. The examination follows strict ICA guidelines and must be conducted at approved medical facilities by certified healthcare professionals.
The check-up typically includes basic health assessments, laboratory tests, and screening for communicable diseases. Results are submitted by applicants themselves using SingPass, via ICA’s site, streamlining the immigration process.
Who Needs an ICA Medical Check-Up?
Several categories of individuals require ICA medical examinations:
1. Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) Medical Check-Up
- Who Needs It?
Individuals applying for or renewing a Long Term Visit Pass (LTVP) in Singapore. This pass is typically issued to family members of Singapore citizens or permanent residents, such as spouses, parents, or children. - Purpose:
The medical check-up ensures that applicants are free from communicable diseases (e.g., tuberculosis, HIV) and meet the health requirements set by ICA. This medical examination is to safeguard public health and ensure the well-being of the community.
2. Permanent Resident (PR) Medical Check-Up
- Who Needs It?
Individuals applying for Singapore Permanent Residency (PR). - Purpose:
The medical check-up is part of the PR application process to confirm the applicant’s health status. It ensures that individuals granted PR status are in good health and do not pose a public health risk.
3. Student Pass Medical Check-Up
- Who Needs It?
International students applying for a Student Pass to study in Singapore. This applies to students enrolling in local schools, polytechnics, universities, or private educational institutions. - Purpose:
The medical check-up is required to verify the student’s health condition and ensure they are fit to study in Singapore. It also helps identify any communicable diseases that could affect the student or the community.
The specific requirements depend on your nationality, the type of pass you’re applying for, and your intended duration of stay in Singapore. ICA will notify you via email if a medical check-up is required for your application.
Essential Documents for Your Check-Up
Before heading to your appointment, ensure you have all necessary documents:
Primary Documents:
- Your passport (original)
- ICA medical form (if provided)
- In-principle approval letter
- Any previous medical records relevant to your health
Additional Requirements:
Some applicants may need vaccination records or specific medical documentation based on their country of origin or medical history.
Always verify document requirements with your chosen clinic when booking, as requirements may vary slightly between approved facilities.
Step-by-Step Process Guide
Phase 1: Preparation and Submission
- Determine Eligibility: Check the specific requirements for your desired pass (PR, LTVP, Student Pass) on the official ICA website.
- Identify Sponsor (If Required): Secure a Singapore Citizen (SC) or Permanent Resident (PR) sponsor (for most LTVP and family-based PR applications).
- Gather Documents: Prepare all necessary supporting documents as listed in the ICA checklist, including official translations if the originals are not in English.
- Access e-Service: Log in to the relevant online ICA system (e.g., e-PR, SOLAR+) using your Singpass or unique login credentials.
- Complete and Submit: Fill out the detailed electronic application form and upload all supporting documents.
- Pay Application Fee: Remit the non-refundable application fee online.
Phase 2: Processing and Approval
- Await Processing: Wait for ICA to process your application (processing times vary by pass type).
- Receive In-Principle Approval (IPA): If your application is successful, you will receive an IPA letter or email. This document confirms conditional approval and specifies the next steps.
Phase 3: Completion of Formalities (COF)
- Complete Medical Check-up: Undergo the required medical examination (Chest X-ray and HIV test are standard) and obtain the completed ICA medical form.
- Purchase Mandatory Insurance (PR): For PR applicants, ensure all mandatory insurance requirements, such as MediShield Life, are met.
- Schedule Appointment: Book a “Completion of Formalities” appointment with the ICA (or at a designated offsite location for some Student Passes).
- Visit ICA: Attend your appointment with all original documents and the IPA letter for verification and to enroll your biometrics (fingerprints and photo).
- Pay Issuance Fee: Pay the final pass issuance fee and any other applicable fees online.
- Receive Digital Pass: The ICA will issue your pass digitally. You will receive an email notification to retrieve your official digital pass (e.g., e-PR card, digital LTVP, or Student Pass) from the FileSG or MyICA portals.
ICA-Approved Clinics in Singapore
ICA maintains a comprehensive list of approved medical facilities across Singapore. These clinics are certified to conduct immigration medical examinations.
Choosing the Right Clinic
When selecting a clinic, consider:
- Location and accessibility
- Appointment availability
- Waiting time for results
- Cost and payment options
- Language preferences for communication
At Mediway Medical, we prioritize keeping wait times as short as possible, demonstrating our strong commitment to service excellence for our clients. Our experienced team understands the urgency of immigration timelines and works efficiently to process your medical requirements.
Medical Tests and Examinations
The ICA medical check-up includes several standard assessments:
1. Chest X-ray
One of the most common requirements is a chest X-ray. This is a quick and painless imaging test that helps us screen for respiratory conditions, most notably tuberculosis (TB). It’s a standard procedure used to identify any signs of active or past lung disease.
2. Blood Tests
A blood sample is also required. This is mainly to screen for infectious diseases. The two most common tests are for:
- HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus): This is a standard part of the screening for long-term pass applicants.
Taking a blood sample is a very quick process, and our team is experienced in making it as comfortable as possible for you.
Tips for a Smooth Experience
Preparation Guidelines
- No fasting is required at Mediway Medical
- Wear comfortable clothing for physical examination
- Bring all required documents in original form
- Arrive 15 minutes early for your appointment
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Forgetting to bring passport or required documents
- Booking appointments too close to your ICA deadline
- Choosing non-approved clinics
Managing Waiting Time
Book your appointment as early as possible after receiving your ICA notification. Popular clinics may have longer waiting times, especially during peak application periods.
Ensuring Timely Completion
The ICA medical check-up is a key step in your immigration process. Delays in completing it can impact your application timeline and plans in Singapore.
Book your appointment as soon as you receive your in-principle approval to avoid last-minute issues.
At Mediway Medical, we provide timely, professional service for ICA compliance, including the permanent resident HIV test, ensuring your medical check-up is thorough and stress-free.
If you have questions or need to schedule an appointment, contact us today. Taking care of your medical check-up now ensures a smoother immigration process later.
