Canada is introducing a new express entry category to address nationwide health workforce shortages by offering a streamlined path to permanent residence for international doctors already working in the country. According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada, the programme will invite applicants from early 2026, targeting doctors with at least one year of Canadian work experience in eligible medical roles over the past three years. “These measures will help bring in and retain practice-ready doctors,” Minister Lena Diab said.
The Federal Government will reserve 5,000 admission spaces for provinces and territories to nominate licensed physicians with job offers. Selected doctors will also receive expedited 14-day work permit processing. Parliamentary Secretary Maggie Chi said increasing qualified physicians would improve nationwide access to care. The Canadian Medical Association President, Dr. Margot Burnell, welcomed the policy, part of Canada’s broader International Talent Attraction Strategy.