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Canada Reserves 5,000 Spots to Attract and Retain Qualified Doctors
Babushahi News Network Bureau
Toronto, December 8, 2025:
In a major push to address the ongoing shortage of medical professionals, the Canadian government has announced targeted immigration measures aimed at helping internationally trained doctors settle and practice in Canada more quickly.
Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab and Maggie Chi, Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health, unveiled a new Express Entry category exclusively for international doctors who already have at least one year of Canadian work experience in an eligible medical occupation within the last three years. These doctors, currently working on temporary visas, will now receive a clear, faster pathway to permanent residence.
According to the announcement, invitations to apply under this new Express Entry category will begin in early 2026.
To further support provinces and territories, the federal government will also reserve 5,000 additional admission spaces specifically for licensed doctors with job offers. Physicians nominated under this stream will be eligible for expedited 14-day work permit processing, enabling them to continue working while their permanent residency is being finalized.
The initiative is part of Canada’s broader International Talent Attraction Strategy, aimed at filling critical labour gaps, strengthening the health-care workforce, and ensuring sustainable, long-term immigration planning.
What the leaders said
Minister Diab emphasized that Canada’s new government is committed to building a strong economy by attracting global talent:
“This new Express Entry category and the reserved admission spaces will help bring in and keep practice-ready doctors, so people across Canada can get the care they need.”
Parliamentary Secretary Maggie Chi highlighted the urgent need for skilled health professionals:
“Increasing the number of qualified physicians will ensure timely, high-quality care for people across the country.”
Dr. Margot Burnell, President of the Canadian Medical Association, welcomed the move:
“Creating a pathway to permanent residence for doctors on temporary visas strengthens the workforce and improves patient care. This is a step in the right direction.”
Quick Facts
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Immigration contributes to nearly 100% of Canada’s labour force growth.
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In 2024, 17% of adults and 11% of children in Canada did not have a regular health-care provider.
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Eligible occupations include general practitioners, family physicians, surgeons, and specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine.
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Credential recognition and licensing remain provincial responsibilities, making the Provincial Nominee Program crucial for integrating international doctors.
With these measures, Canada aims to attract, support, and retain highly skilled doctors to strengthen its health-care system and ensure reliable care for patients across the country.