By Obinna Uballa
Canada is set to launch a new express entry pathway in 2026 aimed at easing permanent residence for Nigerian and other foreign-trained doctors already working in the country, as part of efforts to tackle a severe shortage of healthcare professionals.
In a statement released by Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada and cited on Tuesday, Immigration Minister Lena Diab and Parliamentary Secretary to the Minister of Health, Maggie Chi, announced that a dedicated express entry category will be created for international doctors with at least one year of Canadian work experience in an eligible medical field within the past three years.
“Invitations to apply are expected to be issued in early 2026. These measures will help bring in and retain practice-ready doctors so Canadians can access the care they need,” Diab said, noting that attracting top global medical talent would strengthen both the healthcare system and the broader economy.
As part of the initiative, the Canadian government will reserve 5,000 admission spaces specifically for provinces and territories to nominate licensed doctors who have valid job offers. These nominees will also benefit from expedited 14-day work permit processing, enabling them to continue working while their permanent residence applications are underway.
Parliamentary Secretary Maggie Chi underscored the urgency of boosting the country’s medical workforce. “Increasing the number of qualified physicians ensures timely, high-quality care across the country. Working with provinces and territories, we are tackling workforce challenges and strengthening our health care system,” she said.
President of the Canadian Medical Association, Dr. Margot Burnell, welcomed the policy shift, saying it would help close staffing gaps and enrich patient care with diverse expertise and global experience.
The new pathway forms part of Canada’s broader International Talent Attraction Strategy, designed to fill critical labour shortages, support essential sectors, and ensure long-term sustainability in the country’s immigration system.
