Ottawa Opens New Pathways for Foreign-Trained Doctors
The federal government has unveiled new immigration measures designed to help internationally trained doctors secure permanent residence in Canada. The plan aims to address serious doctor shortages across the country and support long-term stability in health care delivery.
Under the new rules, doctors who already hold temporary status in Canada and have at least one year of Canadian work experience in an eligible medical role acquired within the last three years will qualify for a dedicated category under the Express Entry system. Invitations under this category are expected to begin in early 2026.
What the Measures Include
- The government will reserve 5,000 federal admission spots specifically for licensed doctors nominated by provinces or territories. These spots come in addition to regular allocations under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP).
- Doctors who receive a provincial nomination and a job offer will be eligible for expedited 14-day work permit processing, allowing them to begin or continue working while their permanent resident application is processed.
- Eligible roles include general practitioners, family physicians, surgical specialists, and specialists in clinical or laboratory medicine.
Why This Matters Health Care Needs and Workforce Gaps
Canada is facing a significant shortage of physicians, a problem that leaves many people without a regular family doctor. The new measures recognise that foreign-trained and currently practicing doctors can help fill these gaps.
By offering a streamlined path to permanent residency, the government hopes to encourage more foreign-trained physicians to stay in Canada long-term, strengthening the health workforce and improving access to medical care.
What the Change Means for Doctors Already in Canada and Future Applicants
For qualified foreign-trained physicians already working in Canada, the new Express Entry stream offers a clearer and faster path to permanent residence. Processing will be expedited for those who receive provincial nomination.
For new applicants considering immigration, these changes may motivate more international doctors to consider Canada especially those willing to work in underserviced regions or in high-need specialties.
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