The news is official: Canada is rolling out a dedicated Express Entry category for international doctors, with the first Invitations to Apply (ITAs) expected in early 2026. This development marks a monumental shift and is fantastic news for Nigerian medical professionals currently serving on the front lines of Canadian healthcare.
Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) announced the new “Physicians with Canadian Work Experience” category to address critical labour shortages. This stream specifically targets General Practitioners, Family Physicians, Surgeons, and Clinical/Laboratory Specialists who have accumulated at least one year of eligible Canadian work experience in the last three years.
What This Means for Nigerians in Canada:
For many Nigerian doctors who have historically faced complex licensing hurdles and immigration uncertainty while on temporary permits, this is a crucial step toward stability. The new pathway significantly removes a major immigration barrier, offering a clear, faster route to Permanent Residency (PR) based on the valuable work they are already performing.
Additionally, the government is reserving 5,000 extra federal admission spaces for provinces and territories to nominate licensed doctors, often leading to expedited 14-day work permit processing for those nominated. This policy signals that Canada not only needs your skill but is actively prioritizing your long-term settlement, securing your future and that of your family in the country. If you are an eligible physician, ensure your Express Entry profile is updated and your work documentation is accurate now to prepare for the early 2026 draws.