Canada Announces New Immigration Pathways for Internationally Trained Doctors

Updated: December 2025 — New measures announced by Canada’s Immigration Minister to help internationally trained physicians obtain permanent residence faster and support the nation’s healthcare needs.

Introduction

Canada has introduced major updates to attract and retain internationally trained doctors to its
healthcare system. These new measures were announced in December 2025 and are designed to remove
barriers, speed up permanent residence processing, and make it easier for qualified physicians to
build long-term careers in the country.

As demand for healthcare professionals continues to rise, these changes aim to strengthen Canada’s
medical workforce and provide clear, fair pathways for physicians seeking to live and work in Canada.

Key Measures Announced for Physicians

1. New Express Entry Category for Physicians with Canadian Work Experience

Canada is launching a dedicated Express Entry category for internationally trained physicians with
at least 12 months of full-time Canadian work experience within the past three years.
Eligible applicants must have completed this experience under a single medical occupation.

This specialized category is expected to begin issuing invitations in early 2026, creating a more
direct pathway to permanent residence for doctors already contributing to the healthcare system.

Eligible occupations include:

• NOC 31100 – Specialists in Clinical and Laboratory Medicine
• NOC 31101 – Specialists in Surgery
• NOC 31102 – General Practitioners and Family Physicians

2. 5,000 Reserved Permanent Residence Spots for Physician Nominations

The government has allocated 5,000 additional permanent residence spots specifically for physicians
nominated by provincial and territorial immigration programs.

This gives provinces more flexibility to select qualified doctors who are licensed or practice-ready,
making it easier for them to secure a nomination despite rising competition in other immigration streams.

3. Faster Work Permit Processing for Provincially Nominated Doctors

Physicians who receive a provincial nomination will benefit from an expedited work permit pathway.
Under this new measure, nominated doctors may see their work permit applications processed in as little
as 14 days.

This fast-track option allows physicians to start practicing sooner while their permanent residence
applications are being finalized.

Why These Changes Matter for Internationally Trained Doctors

Many internationally trained physicians face challenges in navigating Canada’s licensing and
immigration systems. Slow processing times, limited pathways, and complex requirements have made it
difficult for qualified professionals to settle in Canada.

With these new policies, Canada aims to:

• Create a clearer, faster route to permanent residence
• Attract and retain skilled medical professionals
• Address ongoing shortages in the healthcare system
• Support provinces hiring internationally trained doctors

Which Medical Professionals Benefit the Most?

These updates are especially valuable for doctors who already have Canadian work experience or those
who have secured job offers in:

• Family Medicine
• Specialist Surgery
• Internal Medicine & Subspecialties
• Laboratory Medicine
• Emergency Medicine
• Rural & Remote Healthcare

Licensing and Practice-Readiness Considerations

While these measures improve immigration pathways, physicians must still meet provincial licensing
requirements. Each province sets its own rules for medical practice, examinations, and credential
verification.

Doctors aiming to work in Canada should ensure they understand the licensing pathway for the province
they intend to practice in, especially if they plan to apply for provincial nomination.

Helpful tips for internationally trained doctors:

• Start your credential verification and licensing assessments early.
• Connect with provincial medical regulatory bodies for updated requirements.
• Keep detailed records of residency, training, and clinical experience.
• Prepare for express entry profile updates once the new category launches.

Although licensing pathways are separate from immigration pathways, strong demand for doctors means
provinces are increasingly supporting qualified candidates through nominations and expedited processes.

What Physicians Should Do Next

With invitations beginning in 2026, doctors should start preparing now to take advantage of the new
pathways. Ensuring accurate documentation, understanding licensing requirements, and securing a job
offer where possible will strengthen your eligibility.

Physicians planning to immigrate should also:

• Create or update their Express Entry profile
• Gather proof of Canadian work experience
• Monitor provincial nominee program updates
• Prepare for document submission well in advance

Final Thoughts

Canada’s 2025 healthcare immigration updates mark a major shift in how internationally trained
physicians can build their future in Canada. With faster processing, dedicated PR pathways, and
increased provincial flexibility, the country is making it significantly easier for doctors to
contribute to its healthcare system.

If you need guidance on Express Entry, PNP options, or work permit pathways (we are not a recruitment
company and do not offer jobs), the CANADA VISA POINT team is here to support your immigration journey.