published on 16 December 2025 @ 4:07 pm · COMMENT

International Doctors Receive Prioritized Immigration To Canada

The Government of Canada has announced new immigration measures aimed at addressing physician shortages and supporting the health care system. A dedicated Express Entry category will be created for international doctors with at least one year of recent Canadian work experience in eligible occupations, with invitations expected in early 2026. Eligible occupations include general practitioners, family physicians, surgical specialists, and specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine.

These measures complement the Provincial Nominee Program and broader strategies to attract and retain skilled international talent. By targeting physicians with recent Canadian experience, the government is focusing on candidates who are already familiar with the Canadian health care system, which should improve retention rates and ensure a smoother transition into Canadian practice. This approach also addresses critical labour gaps in both urban and rural communities, where physician shortages have been most acute.

Additionally, the allocation of 5,000 federal admission spaces specifically for provinces and territories to nominate licensed doctors with job offers provides a significant boost to regional recruitment efforts. The expedited 14-day work permit processing for nominated doctors further reduces barriers to entry, allowing health care facilities to fill urgent staffing needs quickly while candidates await permanent residence.

Overall, these measures signal a strategic shift toward more targeted immigration policies that directly address specific labour shortages. For international doctors, this represents a valuable opportunity to secure permanent residence while contributing meaningfully to Canada’s health care system. For provinces and employers, it provides a mechanism to attract qualified physicians more efficiently and reduce recruitment bottlenecks.

filed under: IMMIGRATIONPERMANENT RESIDENCE