Canada Eases Permanent Residence Rules for Foreign Doctors

Canada has announced new immigration pathways to make it easier for international medical doctors to live and work in the country, as part of efforts to strengthen its healthcare system.

New Opportunities for International Doctors

Under updated immigration policies, foreign doctors can now apply for permanent residence through multiple programs, including the Express Entry system and regional, provincial, and territorial immigration programs.

Key Measures Introduced

• A new Express Entry category for medical doctors who have at least one year of full-time Canadian work experience within the last three years.
• 5,000 immigration spaces reserved under the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) for doctors with job offers or provincial support to settle permanently in Canada.
• Fast-track work permits processed within 14 days for doctors nominated by a province or territory so they can begin working while waiting for permanent residency approval.

Applicants will also be allowed to include family members in their permanent residence applications.

Requirements for Doctors

To practice as a doctor in Canada, applicants must:

• Have their foreign medical credentials assessed, and
• Obtain a medical license from a provincial or territorial regulatory authority.

Other Healthcare Workers

Healthcare professionals who are not medical doctors may still be eligible for immigration through other programs. Canada will continue using the Express Entry system to invite candidates with healthcare experience in different fields.