New Express Entry Stream for International Doctors in Canada Explained

Canada has introduced a new pathway for international doctors already working in the country to obtain permanent residence. This dedicated Express Entry stream offers a faster and more accessible route for foreign-trained physicians who meet specific criteria. With 5,000 extra spaces reserved for provincially-nominated doctors and fast-tracked work permit processing, this initiative aims to address healthcare staffing needs while supporting skilled medical professionals.

This post explains everything you need to know about the new Express Entry stream for international doctors in Canada, including eligibility, application steps, and what to expect in the coming months.

New Express Entry stream helps international doctors gain permanent residence in Canada

What Is the New Express Entry Stream for International Doctors?

The Canadian government has launched a specific Express Entry stream designed for foreign-trained doctors who are already working in Canada. This stream is part of the broader Express Entry immigration system but focuses exclusively on physicians who have Canadian work experience.

Key features include:

• 5,000 additional permanent residence spots reserved for doctors nominated by provinces.

• Eligibility for general practitioners, surgeons, and clinical specialists.

• Requirement of at least one year of Canadian work experience in the last three years.

• Fast-tracked work permit processing for nominated doctors, with decisions in about 14 days.

• Invitations to apply for permanent residence expected to begin in early 2026.

  
  

This new stream reflects Canada’s commitment to supporting healthcare workers and easing their transition to permanent residency.

Who Qualifies for This Pathway?

To qualify for this Express Entry stream, applicants must meet several important criteria:

• Profession: Must be a general practitioner, surgeon, or clinical specialist.

• Work Experience: At least one year of full-time Canadian work experience within the last three years in the relevant medical role.

• Provincial Nomination: Physicians must be nominated by a Canadian province or territory. The provinces have reserved 5,000 extra nomination spots specifically for doctors.

• Licensing and Credentials: Applicants must hold the necessary medical licenses or certifications required to practice in their province.

• Language Proficiency: Demonstrate proficiency in English or French, typically through standardized language tests.

• Express Entry Profile: Candidates must create and submit an Express Entry profile and meet the minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score set for this stream.

  
  

This pathway is designed to help doctors who have already integrated into the Canadian healthcare system and have proven their skills and commitment.

How Does the Application Process Work?

The application process for this new Express Entry stream involves several steps:

1. Obtain Provincial Nomination

   Doctors must first apply for and receive a nomination from a province or territory. Each province has its own application process and criteria, so it’s important to check the specific requirements of the province where you work.

   
   

1. Create an Express Entry Profile

   After receiving a provincial nomination, candidates create an Express Entry profile online. The nomination adds 600 points to the CRS score, significantly increasing the chance of receiving an invitation to apply.

   
   

2. Receive Invitation to Apply (ITA)

   Invitations for this stream will start in early 2026. Once invited, candidates have 60 days to submit a complete application for permanent residence.

   
   

1. Submit Permanent Residence Application

   The application includes documents such as proof of work experience, medical licenses, language test results, and police clearances.

   
   

2. Work Permit Processing

   For nominated doctors, work permit applications will be fast-tracked, with processing times expected to be around 14 days. This helps maintain employment continuity while the permanent residence application is processed.

   
   

1. Receive Permanent Residence

   Successful applicants will receive permanent resident status, allowing them to live and work in Canada indefinitely.

   
   

Why This Pathway Matters for International Doctors

Canada faces ongoing shortages of healthcare professionals, especially in rural and underserved areas. This new Express Entry stream offers several benefits:

• Faster Permanent Residency: Traditional immigration streams can take months or years. This dedicated pathway speeds up the process for doctors already contributing to the Canadian healthcare system.

• Job Security: Fast-tracked work permits reduce the risk of employment gaps during immigration processing.

• Recognition of Canadian Experience: The pathway rewards doctors who have already adapted to Canadian medical standards and practices.

• Provincial Support: Provinces can nominate doctors who meet their local healthcare needs, improving retention and distribution of medical professionals.

  
  

For international doctors, this means a clearer, more reliable path to building a life and career in Canada.

Tips for Preparing Your Application

To improve your chances of success, consider these practical tips:

• Maintain Detailed Records: Keep thorough documentation of your Canadian work experience, including contracts, pay stubs, and letters from employers.

• Stay Licensed and Certified: Ensure your medical licenses are current and meet provincial requirements.

• Prepare for Language Tests Early: Schedule your English or French language tests well in advance to avoid delays.

• Research Provincial Nomination Programs: Each province has different streams and criteria. Contact provincial immigration offices or consult official websites for guidance.

• Seek Professional Advice: Immigration consultants or lawyers specializing in medical professionals can help navigate complex requirements.

  
  

What to Expect Next

Invitations for this new Express Entry stream will begin in early 2026. Doctors interested in this pathway should start preparing now by:

• Gaining or documenting Canadian work experience.

• Applying for provincial nomination as soon as possible.

• Creating an Express Entry profile when eligible.

• Monitoring updates from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) and provincial health authorities.

  
  

This new stream represents a significant opportunity for international doctors to secure permanent residence and continue their careers in Canada with greater stability.