Canada has introduced new immigration pathways for international medical doctors to help strengthen the country’s healthcare system and address ongoing physician shortages. These updates make it easier and faster for foreign-trained doctors to live and work in Canada permanently.
Choose Canada for Your Medical Career
International medical doctors can now apply for Canadian Permanent Residence (PR) through Express Entry and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP), with new immigration measures designed specifically for healthcare professionals.
New Express Entry Category for Medical Doctors
Canada has introduced a new Express Entry category for medical doctors who:
- Have at least 1 year of full-time Canadian work experience
- Worked as a medical doctor within the last 3 years
- Meet eligibility requirements under Canada immigration programs
This new pathway prioritizes physicians, family doctors, and specialists already contributing to Canada’s healthcare system.
5,000 New Provincial Nominee Program Spaces
To further support healthcare staffing needs, Canada has:
- Reserved 5,000 new immigration spaces under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Targeted specifically for medical doctors with job offers or provincial support letters
- Created a faster pathway to permanent residence for doctors in Canada
This initiative allows provinces and territories to nominate international physicians to live and work permanently in Canada.
Fast-Track Work Permit in 14 Days
Medical doctors nominated by a province or territory will also benefit from:
- Priority work permit processing
- Work permits issued in as little as 14 days
- Ability to start working in Canada while waiting for permanent residency
This fast-track option helps doctors begin their medical careers in Canada sooner.
Bring Your Family to Canada
International medical doctors applying through these new programs can:
- Include spouse or common-law partner
- Include dependent children
- Apply together for Canadian permanent residency
This allows families to live, work, and settle in Canada together.
Why This Matters
These new immigration measures are part of Canada’s effort to:
- Address physician shortages
- Improve healthcare access for Canadians
- Attract skilled international medical professionals
- Build a stable and sustainable healthcare system