IRCC Lists Jobs Eligible in Its New Physicians Category

Canada will open a faster route to permanent residence for many doctors. The new option will support dermatologists, pediatricians, psychiatrists, and several other specialists who work in Canada. Immigration Minister Lena Diab announced the move on December 8. She said the new Express Entry category will help more physicians settle in the country.

The program will start its first draws in early 2026. The minister urged interested doctors to update their Express Entry profiles now.

New Category Gives Doctors a Boost

The new category will give many doctors a stronger chance at an Invitation to Apply. These draws often use lower ranking cut-offs. This gives doctors with Canadian experience a fair edge.

Officials set clear rules. Candidates need at least 12 months of steady Canadian work in the past three years. The experience can be full-time or equivalent part-time. They also need to meet all rules for the specific draw.

Candidates must remain eligible for an Express Entry program as well. Those who do not qualify may still apply through the current healthcare and social services option.

Three Occupations in the Category

The new category covers only three medical groups. These groups reflect some of the most needed skills in Canada.

General Practitioners and Family Physicians

These doctors work in many areas of care. They treat patients, handle emergencies, deliver babies, and offer health advice. Their job titles include family physician, GP, and general practice resident.

Specialists in Surgery

This group covers a wide range of surgeons. It includes cardiac, neurosurgery, obstetrics-gynecology, pediatrics, ophthalmology, urology, plastic surgery, and more. These doctors treat injuries, perform surgeries, assess patient needs, and work with other physicians.

Specialists in Clinical and Laboratory Medicine

This large group includes dermatologists, pediatricians, psychiatrists, cardiologists, radiologists, neurologists, and many others. Their work ranges from diagnosing disease to giving treatment, supervising care, and using advanced testing.

How Doctors Can Confirm Their Eligibility

Doctors can check their job match through the National Occupation Classification system. The NOC pages list duties, job titles, and exclusions. A doctor must show close alignment with the job description and perform most main duties.

Key Differences From Existing Category

The new route stands apart from the current healthcare and social services option. The biggest difference comes from the work experience rules.

• Doctors need 12 months of Canadian experience for the new category.
  
• The older stream accepts six months of experience gained in Canada or abroad.
  
• The new route lists only three occupations, while the older one lists 37.
  

The new category aims to help physicians settle faster and continue their work in Canada’s healthcare system.