TORONTO: Canada has introduced new immigration opportunities aimed at making permanent residency pathways more accessible for international medical doctors, including qualified Pakistani physicians.
Under the latest 2026 immigration plan, Pakistani doctors may be able to pursue permanent residency through programs including Express Entry, the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP), and certain regional immigration pathways, depending on their qualifications and professional experience.
However, obtaining permanent residency or a work permit does not automatically authorize a doctor to practise medicine in Canada. Physicians must have their foreign medical degrees and credentials assessed and obtain a licence from the relevant medical regulatory authority in the province or territory where they intend to practise.
New Express Entry Pathway for Doctors-A new category for medical doctors has been introduced under Express Entry in 2026. Eligible candidates may receive invitations to apply for permanent residence through this category.
To qualify, candidates must be eligible for one of the three programs managed under Express Entry and must have at least one year of full-time work experience as a doctor in Canada during the previous three years.
Up to 5,000 PNP Places-Canada has also allocated up to 5,000 federal immigration spaces under the Provincial Nominee Program for the nomination of medical doctors.
Doctors who have a job in a Canadian province or territory, a confirmed job offer, or a letter of support from a relevant organization may be able to benefit from this pathway.
Pakistani doctors without Canadian medical work experience may also explore options through the Provincial Nominee Program, Express Entry, the Atlantic Immigration Program, and selected rural and Francophone community immigration programs.
Licensing Remains a Separate Requirement-Before applying, doctors are required to review the licensing requirements of the province where they plan to work. This may include verification of their medical degree and professional experience, required examinations, and English or French language requirements.
Experts advise doctors planning to move to Canada to treat immigration and medical licensing as two separate processes. Approval for permanent residence or a work permit does not automatically grant permission to practise medicine.
Canadian authorities have also warned doctors against paying unauthorized agents for job offers, medical licences, or letters of support. Applicants are advised to verify the credentials of immigration representatives and relevant organizations before making any payments.
Read also: Want to Work Abroad? Here’s How Pakistanis Can Find Verified Jobs
