By Ebi Kesiena
Canada has introduced a series of immigration reforms designed to attract and retain internationally trained doctors, particularly those already contributing to the country’s health system. The new measures, set to take effect in 2026, aim to make the pathway to permanent residence “simpler and more accessible,” according to a statement issued by the Canadian government.
The initiative is part of Canada’s broader strategy to address critical labour shortages in its healthcare sector. The government noted that the reforms will help fill workforce gaps by bringing in high-skilled medical professionals, many of whom, including Nigerians are already practicing in Canada under temporary arrangements.
“As part of these measures, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) will create a new Express Entry category for international doctors with at least one year of Canadian work experience in an eligible occupation within the last three years,” the statement said.
These doctors, the government explained, are currently supporting hospitals, clinics, and community health centres across the country. By providing a clear and direct pathway to permanent residence, Canada hopes to stabilize its health system and ensure consistent patient care.
Under the new programme, invitations to apply for permanent residence will begin in early 2026. Additionally, Canada will reserve 5,000 federal admission spaces exclusively for provinces and territories to nominate licensed physicians who hold valid job offers. These spaces are separate from, and in addition to annual Provincial Nominee Programme (PNP) allocations.
Successful nominees will also benefit from expedited processing. “Doctors who are nominated will receive 14-day work permit processing, enabling them to continue working while awaiting permanent residence,” the government announced.
Minister for Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship, Lena Metlege Diab, said the reforms align with the government’s mandate to strengthen the national economy and attract global expertise.
“Canada’s new government has a mandate to build a strong economy by attracting top global talent and filling critical labour shortages, this dedicated Express Entry category, along with the reserved federal admission spaces for provinces and territories, will help bring in and keep practice-ready doctors, so people across Canada can get the care they need.”she said.
Maggie Chi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health, echoed this view, noting that the country’s healthcare challenges require streamlined pathways for qualified medical professionals.
“Attracting skilled health professionals is essential to addressing Canada’s health workforce shortages,” she said. “Increasing the number of qualified physicians with the expertise our health care system needs will ensure people across the country receive timely, high-quality care.”
President of the Canadian Medical Association, Margot Burnell, also welcomed the announcement, describing it as a positive step toward closing staffing gaps.
“By creating a pathway to permanent residence for doctors here on temporary visas, we create a stronger health workforce,” Ms Burnell said. “Staffing gaps begin to close, and patient care benefits from diverse voices and experiences. Today’s announcement is a step in the right direction.”
