VitalikRadko / Depositphotos.com
TORONTO — The federal government is creating a new immigration stream for internationally trained doctors as part of a strategy to fill labour shortages in Canada’s health workforce.
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab and Maggie Chi, parliamentary secretary to the health minister, said Monday the program will simplify the path to permanent residence for doctors already working in Canada on temporary permits. Invitations to apply under the new Express Entry category will begin in early 2026.
The category will be open to international physicians with at least one year of Canadian work experience in an eligible occupation within the last three years. Ottawa says the measure is meant to give practice-ready doctors a clear route to stay in Canada and support a more stable and reliable health system.
The government will also reserve 5,000 federal admission spaces for provinces and territories to nominate licensed doctors who have job offers. These nominees will qualify for expedited 14-day work permit processing so they can continue working while their permanent residence applications are reviewed.
Officials say the changes support a broader plan to attract high-skilled workers and address critical gaps in the health system. Ottawa is working with provinces and territories on recruitment, since licensing and credential recognition are provincial responsibilities.
Diab said the policies will help bring in and keep global talent as part of the government’s economic strategy. Chi said the measures will increase the number of doctors with the expertise needed to provide timely, high-quality care. Canadian Medical Association president Dr. Margot Burnell said creating a pathway to permanent residence for physicians on temporary visas strengthens the workforce and benefits patient care.
Immigration accounts for nearly all of Canada’s labour force growth. In 2024, about 5.7 million adults and 765,000 children reported not having a regular health care provider.
Eligible occupations for the new category include general practitioners, family physicians, surgical specialists and specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine. Express Entry manages applications for several permanent residence programs, including the Federal Skilled Worker Program and part of the Provincial Nominee Program.
Comments