Canada reserves 5,000 PR slots as it opens express entry stream for foreign doctors

Canada has unveiled a fresh pathway to permanent residence for international doctors already contributing to its health sector, as part of efforts to close widening workforce gaps across the country.

In a statement issued by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and obtained by Very Nigerian on Tuesday, Immigration Minister Lena Diab and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health, Maggie Chi, announced that a new Express Entry category will be created specifically for foreign-trained doctors who have accumulated at least one year of Canadian work experience in an eligible medical occupation within the last three years.

The first invitations under this category are expected to roll out in early 2026.

According to Diab, the initiative will play a crucial role in stabilising Canada’s strained health system.

“These measures will help bring in and retain practice-ready doctors so Canadians can access the care they need.”

“By attracting top global talent, we are strengthening both the economy and our health care system,” she said.

As part of the reforms, the Federal Government will set aside 5,000 admission spaces for provinces and territories to nominate licensed physicians who already have job offers in Canada.

Those nominated will enjoy expedited work permit processing, capped at 14 days, allowing them to remain in active service while their permanent residence applications are being finalised.

Parliamentary Secretary Maggie Chi underscored the urgency of reinforcing the physician workforce.

“Increasing the number of qualified physicians ensures timely, high-quality care across the country. Working with provinces and territories, we are tackling workforce challenges and strengthening our health care system,” she noted.

The President of the Canadian Medical Association, Dr. Margot Burnell, lauded the initiative, stressing that the new pathway would help address staffing shortages while enriching patient care with globally diverse expertise.

The development forms a key component of Canada’s International Talent Attraction Strategy, designed to fill essential labour shortages, support priority sectors, and ensure long-term sustainability within the country’s immigration system.

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