How to Migrate to Canada as a Physician

Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada’s Express Entry system recently introduced a new targeted category for physicians with Canadian work experience — and the first draw under this stream has just taken place. This development significantly improves immigration opportunities for doctors already working in Canada, helping to address critical workforce shortages in the healthcare sector.

If you’re a physician thinking about migrating to Canada, this guide explains the key pathways, requirements, and how the latest Express Entry Draw #397 for physicians can shape your journey.

What Happened in Express Entry Draw #397?

On February 19, 2026, IRCC held Express Entry Draw #397 targeting physicians with Canadian work experience, issuing 391 Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence. The minimum CRS score required was just 169, the lowest cut-off ever recorded in Express Entry history, reflecting the new category’s focused approach on physicians already contributing to the Canadian healthcare system.

Pathways to Migrate as a Physician

1. Express Entry – Federal Skilled Worker & New Physicians Category

Canada’s Express Entry is a points-based immigration system that manages applications for permanent residence under federal economic programs. Physicians can qualify under:

• Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) Program: For internationally trained doctors with relevant work experience, language proficiency, and education.

• Physicians With Canadian Work Experience Category: Newly introduced category that selects physicians already working in Canada — the first draw under this category had a very low CRS threshold, underscoring Canada’s prioritization of medical professionals.

Both pathways require registration in the Express Entry pool and a valid Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.

2. Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)

Several provinces actively recruit physicians through Express Entry-aligned PNP streams. A provincial nomination gives you a 600-point CRS boost, dramatically increasing your chance of receiving an ITA, even in high-score rounds. Provincial streams may target family doctors, specialists, or physicians willing to serve in underserved communities.

3. Work Permit Followed by Permanent Residence

Many physicians first come to Canada on a temporary work permit arranged by an employer or through a provincial initiative. After obtaining Canadian work experience, they can transition to permanent residence through Express Entry (including the new physicians category) or a PNP.

Key Requirements for Physician Applicants

Credential Recognition

Before practicing medicine in Canada, physicians must have their education and qualifications assessed and may need to pass licensing exams and meet provincial regulatory authority requirements.

Canadian Work Experience

For the new targeted Express Entry physicians category, candidates need at least 12 months of recent full-time work experience in Canada in an eligible medical occupation.

Language Proficiency

Strong results in approved English or French language tests (e.g., IELTS, CELPIP for English; TEF for French) are crucial for high CRS scores and professional licensing.

Licensing & Registration

Each Canadian province and territory has specific medical licensing requirements. You’ll need to satisfy these requirements to practice medicine and strengthen your immigration profile.

Why This Matters for Physician Immigration

Record-Low CRS Scores in the Physicians Draw

The historical CRS cut-off score of 169 in Draw #397 demonstrates that targeted category draws can significantly ease the path to permanent residence for eligible physicians. This type of draw is especially advantageous for those with Canadian work experience.

Aligning Immigration With Healthcare Needs

Canada’s healthcare sector continues to face shortages of qualified medical professionals. The new physicians category reflects a strategic effort to attract and retain doctors who are already integrated into the Canadian healthcare system.

What This Means for You

If You Already Work in Canada as a Physician

The new targeted category offers an accessible route to permanent residence — especially if you have qualifying work experience and meet Express Entry eligibility. Stay up to date with draws and ensure your profile is active with accurate documentation.

If You’re Outside Canada

Internationally trained physicians should focus on:

• Getting credentials recognized,

• Gaining Canadian work experience (e.g., through licensing and employment),

• Improving language scores,

• Exploring provincial pathways that align with your specialization.

Strategic Takeaway

Migrating to Canada as a physician is now more dynamic with the addition of the targeted physicians category in Express Entry. Combining credential recognition, strong work experience, and provincial nomination strategies can give you a competitive edge in Canada’s evolving immigration landscape.

How Swainz Overseas Careers Can Help You

Eligibility assessment: Evaluate your qualifications, work experience, and CRS score.

Immigration planning: Custom pathway strategies, including Express Entry, PNP, and new category draws.

Application support: Assistance preparing documents, managing timelines, and submitting complete applications.