Canada Launches New Immigration Pathway for International Doctors Through Express Entry

Canada has introduced a major reform to support the health care workforce, unveiling new immigration measures that create a streamlined Canada immigration pathway for international doctors. The initiative includes a dedicated express entry for doctor’s category and 5000 federal spaces for provinces to nominate licensed physicians with job offers. The goal is clear: address critical labour shortages and offer a stable path to Canada PR for physicians already contributing to the healthcare system.

A New Express Entry Category for Physicians

Beginning in early 2026, IRCC will issue invitations to a new Express Entry for doctors’ category. Eligible candidates must have at least one year of recent Canadian work experience within the last three years in occupations such as general practitioners, family physicians, surgical specialists, and clinical or laboratory specialists.

These international doctors are already working on temporary permits, filling essential hospital and community care roles nationwide. The expansion provides a long-awaited, predictable route to permanent residence, helping support healthcare reliability and long-term system stability.

Five Thousand Federal Spaces for Provincial Nominations

In addition to express entry changes, IRCC will reserve 5000 federal admission spaces for provinces and territories to nominate licensed doctors with job offers. This is separate from standard PNP allocations and reinforces the importance of provincial participation in healthcare immigration in Canada.

Nominated physicians will also benefit from expedited fourteen-day work permit processing, allowing them to remain in the workforce while transitioning to permanent residency.

Strengthening Labour Force Sustainability

Immigration accounts for nearly all of Canada’s labour force growth. With 17% of Canadian adults lacking a regular healthcare provider in 2024, shortages are pressing. The new pathway recognizes the need to retain medical professionals who are already trained, licensed, and integrated into Canadian health care settings.

This move also aligns with Canada’s International Talent Attraction Strategy, which focuses on securing high-skilled global workers to support key sectors and maintain a sustainable immigration system.

Why This Change Matters

Healthcare labour shortages continue to challenge provinces from coast to coast. International physicians regularly encounter licensing and immigration barriers, slowing integration and contributing to Canada’s difficulty in keeping pace with demand.

By simplifying permanent residence access, IRCC is empowering provinces, reducing administrative hurdles, and supporting better patient outcomes.

Canada’s new immigration measures mark one of the most significant physician-retention reforms to date. By offering a clear, faster, and more secure pathway to permanent residence, the government is strengthening the health care system and ensuring Canadians receive timely care. Stay informed on physician immigration updates, follow Canada Immigration News for expert analysis and the latest policy changes.