OTTAWA: Canada has introduced new immigration measures aimed at attracting qualified doctors from around the world, including Pakistan, as part of efforts to address physician shortages and strengthen the country’s healthcare system.
The updated policies, announced by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), expand pathways for eligible medical professionals to obtain permanent residence while allowing many to begin working sooner through an expedited work permit process.
Multiple Immigration Pathways Available
According to IRCC, eligible physicians can apply for permanent residence through several immigration streams, including:
- Express Entry
- Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
- Regional immigration pathways
- Territorial immigration programs
- Other eligible federal and regional streams
The government said the changes are intended to make it easier for internationally trained doctors to contribute to Canada’s healthcare workforce.
Faster Work Permits for Eligible Doctors
Under the new measures, physicians nominated by a province or territory may qualify for an expedited work permit, with processing targeted at approximately 14 days. This would allow eligible doctors to begin working while their permanent residence applications are being processed.
Officials said the initiative is designed to help address staffing shortages across Canada’s healthcare system more quickly.
Family Members Can Be Included
IRCC also confirmed that eligible doctors may include their immediate family members in their immigration applications, allowing spouses and dependents to relocate to Canada together.
The department said applicants must meet all eligibility requirements and submit the required supporting documentation.
Eligibility Requirements
According to information published by IRCC, physicians who have obtained at least one year of qualifying work experience in Canada within the past three years may be eligible to apply through the Express Entry system.
In addition, doctors nominated through a Provincial Nominee Program with a valid job offer or provincial endorsement may benefit from dedicated federal immigration allocations and expedited processing.
The Canadian government said the measures are part of its broader strategy to strengthen healthcare services by attracting skilled medical professionals from around the world.
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