Canada is creating a new ‘Express Entry’ category for certain international doctors

The federal government announced Monday morning that it is making it easier for certain international physicians to get their permanent residency in Canada. “As part of these measures, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will create a new Express Entry category for international doctors with at least one year of Canadian work experience in an eligible occupation, gained within the last three years,” a release stated. “These doctors are already working in Canada on a temporary basis, helping patients and contributing to our healthcare system. We’re giving these doctors a clear pathway to permanent residence in Canada to fill critical health workforce gaps, while helping support reliable care and a stable health system for Canadians. Invitations to apply for the new Express Entry category will be issued in early 2026.” It went on to explain that the federal government will reserve 5,000 federal admission spaces so that provinces and territories can nominate doctors, who are already licensed and who have job offers. “These spaces are in addition to the annual Provincial Nominee Program allocations,” the release noted.“Attracting skilled health professionals is essential to addressing Canada’s health workforce shortages,” said Maggie Chi, parliamentary secretary to the minister of health, in the press release. “Increasing the number of qualified physicians with the expertise our healthcare system needs will ensure people across the country receive timely, high-quality care. By working closely with provinces and territories, we are tackling workforce challenges and strengthening the healthcare system so Canadians receive the care they need, when they need it.”The doctors nominated will get expedited 14-day work permit processing—which lets them work while they wait for their permanent residency to come through. The occupations falling under this new strategy include general practitioners and family physicians, specialists in surgery and specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine.“By creating a pathway to permanent residence for doctors here on temporary visas, we create a stronger health workforce, staffing gaps begin to close, and patient care benefits from diverse voices and experiences. Today’s announcement is a step in the right direction,” said CMA president Dr. Margot Burnell, in the release. Read the full release from the federal government here.

Canada is creating a new ‘Express Entry’ category for certain international doctors

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