Canada has introduced a significant update to its immigration system with a new Express Entry category tailored specifically for foreign-trained doctors. This policy shift aims to support physicians already contributing to the Canadian health care system while helping provinces respond to ongoing shortages in medical professionals. For many internationally trained doctors, this announcement provides a clearer and more accessible path toward permanent residency. Canadian Visa Expert views this change as an important opportunity for qualified physicians seeking long-term stability in Canada.
A Dedicated Pathway for Physicians
The new Express Entry category will allow doctors who have accumulated at least one year of continuous full-time or equivalent part-time Canadian work experience within the last three years to apply under a specialized stream. Eligible occupations include family physicians, general practitioners and a range of medical specialists. Invitations through this category are expected to begin in early 2026 and will create a more predictable route for medical professionals who already serve patients across the country.
Alongside the updated selection category, the federal government is making additional room for physicians nominated by provinces and territories. Five thousand admissions will be reserved specifically for foreign trained doctors who hold valid job offers and meet provincial requirements. This allocation is separate from the regular yearly quotas and is intended to speed up recruitment efforts in regions facing critical shortages.
Another key part of the update is a commitment to faster processing. Physicians who receive a provincial nomination will be eligible for expedited work permits, allowing them to begin or continue working while their permanent residency application is finalized. This step reduces administrative delays and ensures that communities retain essential medical talent throughout the immigration process.
Benefits for International Medical Professionals
For many foreign trained doctors, the combination of a dedicated Express Entry stream, reserved admission spaces and quicker work permit processing, represents a major improvement. Instead of navigating a system that did not fully recognize the unique nature of medical licensing and employment, physicians will now have a tailored pathway that acknowledges their contribution to Canada’s health care system.
Those who meet the experience requirement can expect a more straightforward route to permanent residency, while those with provincial nominations may benefit from even faster timelines. Canadian Visa Expert emphasizes that these changes make Canada an even more attractive destination for qualified physicians who want to build long-term careers and lives in the country.
This initiative highlights Canada’s commitment to expanding its health care workforce and ensuring that residents have access to timely and reliable medical services. For foreign trained doctors already practicing in Canada, it opens the door to a more secure future. Canadian Visa Expert encourages interested physicians to explore their eligibility and take advantage of this promising new opportunity.
