Facing a critical doctor shortage, Canada introduced targeted immigration measures in December 2025 to fast-track permanent residence for international medical graduates (IMGs).
What's New for Doctors
- Simplified PR pathway — reduced paperwork and faster processing for qualified physicians
- Express Entry priority — healthcare workers receive additional CRS points through category-based selection
- Provincial partnerships — provinces can nominate doctors through PNPs with expedited processing
Why This Matters
Canada needs approximately 30,000 more doctors to meet current demand. Rural and northern communities are particularly underserved. These measures aim to attract qualified physicians who can begin practicing sooner.
Doctor to Citizen Pipeline
International doctors who receive PR through these measures can apply for citizenship after meeting the residency requirement (1,095 days of physical presence within 5 years).
The citizenship test covers Canadian history, government, rights, and geography — topics that help new doctors understand their patients' communities. Start with our Regions chapter to learn about the communities you'll serve.
Take a practice test to see where you stand.