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A new Express Entry pathway for international physicians in Canada

Updated: January 05, 2026

Canada has introduced a new Express Entry category to support internationally trained physicians who are already contributing to the Canadian healthcare system.

Effective Dec 8, 2025, this targeted pathway is intended to facilitate the transition from temporary status to permanent residence, and to help address ongoing healthcare labour shortages.

Eligibility overview

Qualification under this category is determined based on the following requirements:

  • Physicians are currently working in Canada.
  • Physicians have at least one year of Canadian work experience in a qualifying health care occupation within the past three years.
  • Physicians are eligible under Express Entry or nomination through a Provincial Nominee Program.

Key program highlights

  • Invitations to apply are expected to begin in early 2026.
  • 5,000 permanent residence spaces are allocated for provincially nominated licensed physicians.
  • A 14-day work permit processing for nominated physicians while permanent residence applications are in progress.

Preparing for the new pathway

Physicians currently working in Canada should begin planning now by:

Icon of a certificate depicting medical credentials.
Reviewing professional credentials and licensing status.
Icon of a checklist and a magnifying glass, depicting the eligibility of physicians.
Assessing eligibility under Express Entry or provincial nomination streams.
A line path leads to a flag target, representing the framework of an immigration strategy.
Developing an immigration strategy aligned with long-term practice plans.

How our team can help

At BDO, we assist physicians and health care organizations in navigating Canadian immigration pathways with clarity and efficiency. Early preparation will be key to taking advantage of this new opportunity. For further support and inquiries, please contact our Immigration Services leader.

Saba Naqvi
Partner & National Practice Leader, Immigration Services
Contact View bio

The information in this publication is current as of December 18, 2025.

This publication has been carefully prepared, but it has been written in general terms and should be seen as broad guidance only. The publication cannot be relied upon to cover specific situations and you should not act, or refrain from acting, upon the information contained therein without obtaining specific professional advice. Please contact BDO Canada LLP to discuss these matters in the context of your particular circumstances. BDO Canada LLP, its partners, employees and agents do not accept or assume any liability or duty of care for any loss arising from any action taken or not taken by anyone in reliance on the information in this publication or for any decision based on it.