Physicians and surgeons are the backbone of Canada's healthcare system. But, there is a chronic shortage of trained medical professionals across various specialities. As a result, the demand for foreign-trained doctors has skyrocketed in recent years.
Whether you've recently completed your medical education abroad or you're an experienced practitioner, moving to Canada can open up a world of opportunities. Check out this guide to learn why 2024 offers great opportunities for Indian doctors seeking medical careers in Canada.
Physicians’ and surgeons’ total employment in Canada is projected to grow by 13% from 2016 to 2026. This is faster than the average of any other sector.
Jobs in Canada for Medical Practitioners
|
Occupation |
New jobs (2017-2021) |
Replacement jobs (2017-2021) |
|
All Occupations |
29% |
71% |
|
Professional occupations in health (except nursing) |
50% |
50% |
|
General practitioners and family physicians |
57% |
43% |
Begin your journey to practice medicine in Canada in 2024 by following these steps.
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Step |
Description |
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1. Ensure a Recognized Medical Degree |
Get an approved medical degree from a recognized university in the World Directory of Medical Schools. |
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2. Apply for a Licentiate |
Apply for a Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (MCC). |
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3. Complete Post-Graduate Program |
Pass a one-year post-graduate program under a medical authority in the province. |
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4. Get Certification |
Get official certification from one of the following medical institutions: |
|
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- The College of Family Physicians of Canada |
|
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- The Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada |
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5. Provide Immigration History |
Include past immigration history, including registration with medical regulatory authorities in Canada. |
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6. Prepare Required Documents |
Gather necessary documents, including educational credentials, work experience certificates, and language test results. |
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7. Submit Application |
Apply for immigration through the Express Entry system or Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs). |
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8. Medical Licensing |
Obtain medical licensure from the regulatory body in the province where you intend to practice. |
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9. Settle in Canada |
Make arrangements to move to Canada and familiarize yourself with Canadian healthcare practices. |
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10. Begin Practice |
Start practising as a Doctor in Canada. You can do so by exploring job opportunities and considering establishing your own practice. |
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11. Continuing Education |
Stay updated with the latest developments in your field. Also, pursue continuing education, and engage in professional networking. |
By following these seven simple steps Indian Doctors apply for Canadian Immigration:
Check Your Eligibility Points and Find Your NOC Code
Check your eligibility points. Also, identify the National Occupational Classification (NOC) code corresponding to your medical profession.
Complete your Educational Credential Assessments
Make sure your educational credentials meet Canadian standards by undergoing assessments.
Test your language score
To be eligible for immigration, candidates need to pass the IELTS exam with a minimum score of 6 bands
Create Your Express Entry Profile
Showcase your qualifications, work experience, and language skills. You can do so by creating a detailed profile through the Express Entry system.
Receive Your Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Check for an Invitation to Apply (ITA) based on your profile's ranking in Express Entry draws.
Submit Necessary Documents and Fees
Collect relevant documents and pay the necessary fees to support your immigration application.
Finalise Visa Approval with Passport Stamping
On approval, complete the visa process. This is possible by getting your passport stamped, marking the final step before your journey to Canada begins.
How to Score 67 Points to Immigrate to Canada?- Kansas®
Canada's Immigration Minister, Sean Fraser, announced that foreign doctors are now eligible for the Express Entry Program. So, if they have at least one year of work experience in Canada or overseas. He stressed that being self-employed doesn't automatically disqualify candidates from getting permanent status.
The Express Entry program was initiated in January 2015. It is a solution to Canada's shortage of skilled labour as it simplifies the immigration process for qualified candidates. It operates on a point-based system.
In this, candidates need to score at least 67 points in the immigration eligibility assessment grid. It considers factors like age, work experience, language proficiency, and education.
On meeting the eligibility criteria, candidates can create an Express Entry profile and submit their credentials. These profiles are then ranked using the Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS).
In this points are assigned on the basis of various factors. The higher a candidate's ranking in the CRS, the better their chances of receiving an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
Documents to Establish Work Experience:
Additional Supporting Documents:
Entry-level positions start at $45,000 per year, while most experienced workers can make up to $76,000 per year.
|
Top In-Demand Healthcare Jobs |
|
|
Healthcare Job in Canada |
Average Salary in CAD |
|
Registered Nurses |
$76, 362 |
|
Pharmacist |
$94, 799 |
|
Licensed Practical Nurse |
$59, 333 |
|
Occupational or Physiotherapy Assistant |
$51, 266 |
|
Psychologist |
$94, 451 |
|
Veterinarians or Assistants |
$49, 452 and $41, 664 |
|
Dispensing Optician |
$39, 975 |
|
Dental Laboratory Bench Workers |
$45, 000 |
|
Managers in Health Care |
$87, 500 |
|
Dietitians and Nutritionists |
$72, 145 |
|
Medical Laboratory Technologists |
$65, 072 |
|
Respiratory Therapists, Clinical |
$76, 650 |
|
Respiratory Therapists, Clinical Perfusionists and Cardiopulmonary Technologists |
$76, 650 |
|
Medical Radiation Technologists |
$85, 800 |
|
Dental Hygienists and Dental Therapists |
$70, 800 |
|
Nurse aides and Patient Service Associates |
$44, 168 |
|
Tech Jobs in Healthcare |
|
|
Occupation |
Average Salary in CAD |
|
Data Scientist |
$107,500 |
|
Telehealth Nurse |
$65, 871 |
|
Bioengineer -3D Printing |
$80, 502 |
|
Robotics Engineers |
$53, 063 |
|
Software Development Engineer |
$122, 000 |
|
Graphic Designers |
$45, 845 |
|
Computer Programmers |
$52, 650 |
|
Computer Technicians |
$42, 709 |
Canada PR Now Easier for Doctors
Here’s a list of the costs associated with the immigration process:
Depending on the province or territory, licensure may involve:
Step 1: Confirm your medical degree is from a recognized school
Step 2: Prepare for your medical examinations
Step 3: Submit your portfolio
Step 4: Check application fees and requirements
Points to Note:
Acquiring a medical license in Canada is not guaranteed and involves different stages.
1. Federal Skilled Worker Visa Program
This program is a commonly opted pathway for immigration to Canada. IT professionals, bankers, and doctors majorly opt for the FSW program.
Features of the Federal Skilled Worker Visa Program:
To settle and practice in Canada as a Doctor, you'll need a relevant medical degree, work experience, and proficient English language skills. Further, you'll need immigration medical examination results and a license (MCC).
Also, you must represent one of the following occupations (of the major group) from the NOC, Canada.
2. Provincial Nominee Programs
There are specific programs specially designed for trained medical doctors like the:
3. Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program
If you received your license and a Canadian employer has already offered you a job. The Atlantic Immigration Pilot Program is your quickest route to settle in Canada. This program requires low IELTS and one can apply even with less work experience. But, your occupation should be present in the list under the NOC Skill Level A category.
Kansas Overseas Careers is a leading visa consultant in India. It provides customized services to meet your immigration requirements.
We specialize in Permanent Residency Visas, Work Visas, Study Visas, Temporary visas, and Dependent Visas. Kansas ensures a smooth journey towards your desired destination.
Here's how Kansas goes the extra mile for you:
Personalized Profile Evaluation: Receive expert guidance tailored to your unique profile. We ensure clarity on your visa success prospects.
Thorough Document Preparation: We carefully prepare paperwork that meets the exact visa requirements and formats. Also, we focus on every little detail.
Dedicated Case Officer: Enjoy personalized assistance from a dedicated consultant. We guide you through every step of the process with care and attention.
Expert Visa Filing Services: Count on Kansas to manage your visa applications in a proper way. We assure compliance with essential immigration regulations.
Complimentary Test Preparation: Access complimentary online courses to enhance your language proficiency for key exams. These exams include IELTS, French, TOEFL, and PTE.
Interview Guidance: Receive comprehensive guidance for visa interviews, along with verified documents. This is to boost your confidence and chances of success.
Post-Landing Support: Count on Kansas to help you settle comfortably in your new country post-visa approval. Hence we ensure a smooth transition to your new life.
1. What is the most accessible immigration program to Canada for doctors?
The Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs), offer tailored pathways for doctors to immigrate to Canada. These programs have specific requirements and nomination processes. This makes them accessible options for many.
2. What are the 3 most popular visa programs in Canada for doctors?
The three most popular visa programs for doctors in Canada are
3. What are the eligibility requirements for the Nova Scotia Physician Stream?
Eligibility for the Nova Scotia Physician Stream includes:
4. How long does it take to access public healthcare in Quebec as an international student?
International students in Quebec get access to public healthcare after a waiting period of approximately three months from their arrival date.
5. Which countries are the easiest for Doctors to find employment abroad?
Countries like the United States, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, and the United Kingdom are more accessible for doctors seeking employment opportunities abroad.
6. What are the minimum requirements to move to Canada as a Doctor?
Minimum requirements to move to Canada as a doctor are:
7. Which exam do Indian Doctors have to pass to practice in Canada?
Indian doctors may need to pass either of the two exams to practice in Canada:
8. What documents are required to immigrate as a Doctor to Canada?
Documents required to immigrate as a doctor are:
9. What is the easiest way to migrate to Canada without taking an exam?
The easiest way to migrate to Canada without taking an exam is through:
10. What is the easiest country for a foreign medical graduate to get licensed and work as a doctor in?
Canada, Australia, and the United States are often considered among the easier countries for foreign medical graduates to get licensed and work as doctors. Although the process is challenging and may vary depending on individual circumstances.
11. How long does it take for Canadian immigration after your medical conditions are evaluated?
The timeline for Canadian immigration after medical evaluations can vary depending on factors like:
12. What are the advantages and benefits of practising medicine in Canada?
The advantages of practicing medicine in Canada include:
13. What is the minimum salary in Canada for medical professionals?
Minimum salaries for medical professionals in Canada range from around $60,000 to $200,000 CAD per year.
14. What is the degree verification process for doctors to immigrate to Canada?
The degree verification process involves submitting educational credentials to designated organizations. This is for assessment and verification of equivalency to Canadian standards.
15. Should you move to Canada as an internationally educated doctor?
As an internationally educated doctor, moving to Canada can provide opportunities for career growth, high quality of life, and access to top-notch healthcare. But, you must consider some factors before making the move like: