On December 8, 2025, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) unveiled a groundbreaking initiative to address physician shortages: a dedicated Express Entry category for Physicians with Canadian Work Experience. This new category, alongside expedited work permits and reserved Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) spots, forms a comprehensive package to fast-track permanent residence (PR) for internationally trained doctors already practicing in Canada. The announcement, part of Budget 2025 commitments, aims to retain talent contributing to the healthcare system amid ongoing shortages affecting millions of Canadians.
At Worldbridge, we’re excited about this development it creates a clearer, faster path for doctors pursuing PR through Express Entry or PNPs. Here’s what you need to know about this transformative change.
The New Category: “Physicians with Canadian Work Experience”
Launching in early 2026, this category-based selection targets doctors with substantial Canadian experience, ensuring they can transition seamlessly to PR without competing in general draws.
Key eligibility:
- At least 12 months of full-time (or equivalent part-time) Canadian work experience in the last three years.
- Occupations covered:
- NOC 31100: Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine.
- NOC 31101: Specialists in surgery.
- NOC 31102: General practitioners and family physicians.
Unlike the broader Healthcare and Social Services category (requiring only 6 months experience anywhere), this demands proven Canadian integration prioritizing those already licensed and serving patients.
Supporting Measures: Faster Work and Nomination Access
To complement the category:
- Reserved PNP Spots: An additional 5,000 federal admissions beyond standard quotas, allowing provinces to nominate licensed doctors with job offers ideal for regions like rural Ontario or British Columbia facing acute shortages.
- 14-Day Work Permits: Nominated physicians receive expedited permits, enabling immediate practice while PR processes (target: 6 months).
These build on existing tools, potentially admitting thousands more doctors annually in a system where economic immigration reaches 64% by 2028.
Why This Category Matters
Canada’s physician shortage is critical: Over 4 million lack a family doctor, with rural and underserved areas hit hardest. Internationally trained doctors often on temporary permits face barriers despite filling gaps. This initiative rewards contributions, aligning with the 2026-2028 plan’s in-Canada priority and healthcare focus.
Minister Lena Metlege Diab stated: “These physicians are already caring for Canadians we’re removing hurdles so they can build lives here.”
Implications for Doctors
- Faster PR: Dedicated draws mean lower competition; combine with PNP for +600 CRS points.
- Broader Benefits: Spouses and children included; pathways to citizenship accelerated.
- Preparation Tips: Update Express Entry profiles now; gather proof of Canadian experience and licensing.
This is a major win for healthcare talent retention amid caps on study permits (155,000 new in 2026).
Let Worldbridge Immigration Services be your guide to a successful future in Canada
Contact us:
Website: www.theworldbridge.ca
Email: info@theworldbridge.ca
Phone/WhatsApp: +1-416-727-7766
Social media: @worldbridgeHQ
