Canada Launches New Express Entry Pathway for Doctors with Canadian Experience
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has unveiled significant updates to support international doctors in gaining permanent residence in Canada. The announced set of measures are aimed at making it easier for qualified physicians to settle in the country.
Key Immigration Measures for Doctors
The latest initiatives include:
A new Express Entry category for doctors with Canadian work experience.
5,000 reserved permanent residence spaces for provinces to nominate licensed physicians.
Faster work permit processing for practice-ready, provincially nominated doctors.
These changes reflect Canada’s commitment to addressing healthcare staffing shortages and attracting skilled physicians to its healthcare system.
New Express Entry Category: Physicians with Canadian Experience
The new Express Entry stream targets doctors who have gained practical experience in Canada. To qualify, applicants must:
Have at least 12 months of full-time, continuous work experience in Canada within the last three years (part-time work equivalent is also accepted).
Work in one of the following eligible occupations:
| Occupation | 2021 NOC Code | TEER Category |
|---|---|---|
| General practitioners and family physicians | 31102 | 1 |
| Specialists in surgery | 31101 | 1 |
| Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine | 31100 | 1 |
This category is designed to complement existing Express Entry streams and is expected to begin issuing invitations in early 2026. Unlike the broader healthcare and social services stream, this new pathway requires in-Canada work experience, emphasizing recent contributions to the local healthcare system.
Provincial Nominee Program: 5,000 Reserved Spots
In addition to the federal stream, the government will allocate 5,000 special permanent residence spaces for provinces and territories. These spots will allow provinces to nominate physicians who already have job offers, helping them secure permanent residence more efficiently.
These reserved admissions are in addition to the standard Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allocations, giving provinces more flexibility to attract international medical talent. However, it remains unclear from which existing immigration allocation these 5,000 spots will be drawn.
Expedited Work Permits for Nominated Physicians
Doctors nominated by a province will now enjoy work permit processing in just 14 days, a significant reduction from the usual timeline. This allows physicians to begin working while their permanent residence applications are being processed, ensuring that critical healthcare services are not delayed.
What This Means for International Physicians
These new measures are a game-changer for foreign-trained doctors who are already contributing to Canada’s healthcare system. By offering a dedicated Express Entry pathway, reserved provincial nominations, and faster work authorization, Canada is creating a more accessible route for physicians to live and work permanently in the country.
About the Author: Lauren Shannan is a Senior Immigration Consultant with 10 years of experience helping foreign nationals navigate their journey in Canada. With her extensive knowledge of immigration processes and policies, Lauren provides valuable insights to those looking to make Canada their new home.
Disclaimer: This blog post is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. For personalized advice, please consult with a licensed immigration professional.