IRCC Launches Faster PR Pathway for International Doctors

Canada has recently announced significant changes to its immigration system, aimed at addressing the growing demand for healthcare professionals. On December 8, 2025, Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab and Maggie Chi unveiled three major initiatives designed to make it easier for international doctors to obtain permanent residency (PR) in Canada. These measures, part of the Express Entry system, are a welcome development for doctors currently working in Canada and those planning to move here.

In this blog, we will break down the new Express Entry category, reserved provincial admissions, and expedited work permit processing. We will also explain how Sambhav Immigration, a leading Express Entry visa consultant in Mississauga, can guide you through the application process.

New Express Entry Category for Physicians

The most notable change is the introduction of a new Express Entry category called “Physicians with Canadian Work Experience.” This category specifically targets doctors who have accumulated at least 12 months of full-time continuous work experience (or the equivalent in part-time hours) in Canada within the last three years.

Eligible occupations under this category include:

• General Practitioners and Family Physicians (NOC 31102)
• Specialists in Surgery (NOC 31101)
• Specialists in Clinical and Laboratory Medicine (NOC 31100)

The new category is designed to reward doctors who have gained practical experience within the Canadian healthcare system. Invitations to apply under this category are expected to begin in early 2026. While this category operates alongside existing Express Entry streams, it prioritizes physicians with Canadian work experience, making it a faster pathway to PR for eligible candidates.

It is worth noting that the existing healthcare Express Entry category already includes various healthcare professionals, such as nurses, dentists, and optometrists. However, the current category does not require in-Canada work experience, only six months of work experience either in Canada or abroad. This new category sets a higher standard for physicians but also provides a more streamlined path to permanent residency.

5,000 Reserved Permanent Residence Spots for Provinces

In addition to the new Express Entry category, the Government of Canada has set aside 5,000 permanent residence spots exclusively for provinces and territories. This measure allows provinces to nominate licensed doctors who have valid job offers, in addition to the regular Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) allocations.

This initiative is significant for several reasons:

• Increased Opportunities: Provinces can nominate more doctors, addressing regional shortages and ensuring healthcare services are adequately staffed.
• Priority Processing: Nominated doctors may receive faster consideration for permanent residency.
• Strategic Workforce Planning: Provincial governments can align nominations with local healthcare needs, ensuring that underserved regions receive adequate medical support.

By reserving dedicated spots for physicians, Canada is sending a clear message: the contributions of international doctors are essential, and the country is committed to making the immigration process more accessible for them.

Expedited Work Permit Processing

Another key component of the new measures is expedited work permit processing for practice-ready physicians nominated by a province. Under this system, doctors can receive a work permit in just 14 days, allowing them to start working immediately while their permanent residency application is finalized.

This is a dramatic improvement compared to the usual processing time, which can take several months. The expedited work permit ensures that hospitals and clinics across Canada can quickly benefit from the expertise of qualified international doctors, while the physicians themselves gain job security and stability during the PR process.

Eligibility Requirements

To summarize, here are the main eligibility requirements for the new Express Entry pathway:

• Work Experience: At least 12 months of continuous full-time work (or equivalent part-time) in Canada within the last three years.
• Eligible Occupations: General practitioners, family physicians, specialists in surgery, and specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine.
• Job Offer for Provincial Nominee Program: Physicians must have a valid offer if applying through the reserved 5,000 PR spots.
• Express Entry Profile: Candidates must create an Express Entry profile and meet the standard eligibility criteria for Federal Skilled Worker or Canadian Experience Class programs.

Meeting these requirements positions international doctors for a faster and smoother path to permanent residency in Canada.

Benefits of the New Measures

These immigration updates bring multiple benefits for international doctors and Canada’s healthcare system:

• Faster permanent residency for physicians with Canadian work experience.
• Provincial support through reserved PR spots for licensed doctors.
• Immediate work opportunities with expedited work permits.
• Recognition of Canadian healthcare experience.
• Improved retention of international doctors to reduce workforce shortages.

Why Choose Sambhav Immigration for Express Entry Visa Consulting in Mississauga

Navigating the Express Entry system can be complex, especially with the recent changes for physicians. That’s where Sambhav Immigration comes in. As a trusted Express Entry visa consultant in Mississauga, Sambhav Immigration offers:

• Expert Guidance: In-depth knowledge of the latest immigration rules and physician-focused Express Entry pathways.
• Personalized Support: Eligibility assessment, document preparation, and step-by-step application guidance.
• Maximized Success: Improved chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply and securing permanent residency.
• Stress-Free Process: Complete management of paperwork, deadlines, and IRCC communication.
• Local Expertise: Mississauga-based support with in-person consultations.

Key Takeaways

• Canada has introduced a new Express Entry category for physicians with Canadian work experience.
• Provinces have 5,000 reserved PR spots for licensed doctors.
• Expedited work permits allow nominated doctors to work within 14 days.
• These measures aim to strengthen Canada’s healthcare system.
• Working with professional consultants helps doctors navigate these changes successfully.

Conclusion

The latest IRCC measures represent a major step forward for international doctors seeking to build a life and career in Canada. By creating a dedicated Express Entry pathway, reserving provincial PR spots, and expediting work permit processing, Canada is making it easier for physicians to contribute to its healthcare system.

For international doctors in Canada, this new pathway offers a faster and more secure route to permanent residency. To ensure a smooth, efficient, and successful application, partnering with a professional Express Entry consultant in Mississauga is highly recommended.

Book a consultation today and take the first step toward a brighter future in Canada’s healthcare system.