Canada Announces a New Express Entry Category for Doctors

Starting in early 2026, foreign-trained physicians may become eligible for targeted Express Entry invitations under a new category created specifically for medical professionals. To qualify, candidates must have at least one year of Canadian work experience in an eligible medical occupation, obtained within the last three years.

This change represents a significant shift in Canada’s immigration strategy. By creating a dedicated category, the government is recognizing the critical role physicians already play in the healthcare system and offering them a more direct and predictable pathway to permanent residence. For doctors who are already working in Canada, this means greater stability, clearer planning, and a faster transition from temporary status to permanent residence.

Additional Provincial Nominee Program Spaces for Physicians

In addition to the new Express Entry category, the federal government announced the allocation of 5,000 additional nomination spaces specifically for provinces and territories to nominate physicians who already have a valid job offer. These spaces are separate from the regular Provincial Nominee Program allocations, reinforcing the growing importance of provincial pathways in Canada’s immigration system.

This measure allows provinces and territories to respond more effectively to local healthcare shortages by retaining physicians who are already integrated into their communities. It also provides physicians with more options and flexibility, especially for those whose profiles may be stronger at the provincial level rather than under federal Express Entry selection criteria alone.

Faster Work Permit Processing for PNP-Nominated Physicians

Another major improvement is the introduction of expedited work permit processing for physicians nominated through a Provincial Nominee Program. In some cases, work permits may now be processed in as little as 14 days. This allows physicians to continue working legally in Canada while their permanent residence application is being processed.

This faster processing timeline reduces uncertainty for both employers and healthcare professionals, helping hospitals, clinics, and communities maintain continuity of care. For physicians, it means fewer disruptions to their careers and greater confidence in their long-term plans in Canada.

The Objective Behind These Changes

The goal of these measures is clear: to strengthen Canada’s healthcare workforce, address critical labour shortages, and improve long-term system stability. These initiatives are aligned with the federal government’s broader talent attraction strategy outlined in this year’s budget, which prioritizes skilled professionals in essential sectors such as healthcare.

By focusing on physicians who are already contributing to the system, Canada is shifting from short-term solutions to more sustainable workforce planning. The emphasis is on retention, stability, and long-term integration rather than temporary fixes.

How Physicians Can Prepare

Physicians who are already working in Canada should begin reviewing their eligibility, work experience, and immigration status now, even before the new category officially launches. Preparation may include confirming eligible occupations, maintaining valid work authorization, and understanding whether a federal or provincial pathway is the best fit for their profile.

For physicians planning to immigrate to Canada, these announcements signal strong opportunities ahead, particularly for those willing to gain Canadian work experience and align their careers with provincial healthcare needs.

Book a consultation with e-Visa to understand how these new measures may apply to your situation and to build a clear, strategic plan toward permanent residence in Canada.