Are you a UK-trained doctor interested in moving to Canada? Immigration.ca can help. Please submit your CV here.
On This Page You Will Find:
- Canada’s Updated Immigration Targets: The latest figures for permanent resident intake (2025–2027).
- Immigration Pathways for UK Physicians: Express Entry, PNPs, and targeted healthcare draws.
- Licensing Requirements: MCC certification, provincial licensing, and PRA programs.
- Salary Expectations and Job Market: Income levels in urban, mid-sized, and rural areas.
- Benefits of Practicing in Canada: Work-life balance, reduced bureaucracy, and financial incentives.
Canada’s Need for UK-Trained Family Physicians
Canada continues to face a shortage of family physicians, making UK-trained doctors highly sought after. Many provinces offer streamlined immigration and licensing pathways to address the growing demand for healthcare professionals. With competitive salaries, a high quality of life, and fewer administrative burdens than in the UK, Canada presents an attractive opportunity for doctors looking to relocate.
Canada’s Updated Immigration Targets (2025–2027)
In response to economic and housing pressures, Canada has revised its immigration targets for the coming years:
- 2025: 395,000 new permanent residents
- 2026: 380,000 new permanent residents
- 2027: 365,000 new permanent residents
While overall immigration levels have been reduced, Canada continues to prioritize skilled professionals, including healthcare workers, through specialized immigration programs.
Immigration Pathways for UK Family Physicians
1. Express Entry System
Express Entry remains one of the fastest ways for skilled professionals to immigrate to Canada. Family physicians may qualify under:
- Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP): Applicants must meet education, work experience, and language proficiency requirements.
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC): Ideal for physicians already working in Canada on a temporary basis, requiring at least one year of skilled Canadian work experience.
- Category-Based Express Entry Draws: Canada periodically invites healthcare professionals, including family physicians, through targeted Express Entry draws.
2. Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs)
Several provinces operate nominee programs specifically designed to attract healthcare professionals:
- Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP): The province regularly invites physicians through the Express Entry-linked Human Capital Priorities Stream.
- British Columbia Provincial Nominee Program (BC PNP): Offers a Health Authority stream for physicians with job offers in the province.
- Saskatchewan Immigrant Nominee Program (SINP): Provides an International Healthcare Worker Expression of Interest (EOI) pathway.
- Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP): Features a dedicated Physician Stream aimed at attracting foreign-trained family doctors.
Licensing and Certification Requirements for UK Physicians
Before practicing in Canada, UK-trained doctors must obtain the necessary credentials and licensure:
1. Medical Council of Canada (MCC) Certification
The MCC grants the Licentiate of the Medical Council of Canada (LMCC) to medical graduates who:
- Pass the Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) Part I.
- Complete at least 12 months of approved postgraduate training.
2. Provincial and Territorial Licensing Requirements
Each province and territory has its own medical regulatory authority responsible for licensing physicians. Requirements may vary, and applicants should verify criteria with the relevant authority.
3. Practice Ready Assessment (PRA) Program
For internationally trained physicians who do not meet full licensing requirements, some provinces offer a Practice Ready Assessment (PRA) program. This allows foreign-trained doctors to work under supervision before obtaining full licensure.
Job Market and Salary Expectations
Canada offers competitive salaries for family physicians, with earnings varying by location and type of practice:
- Urban Centers (Toronto, Vancouver, Montreal): $200,000–$300,000 CAD per year.
- Mid-Sized Cities (Calgary, Halifax, Winnipeg): $300,000–$400,000 CAD per year.
- Rural & Remote Areas (Northern Communities, Saskatchewan, Newfoundland & Labrador): $400,000–$500,000 CAD per year, often with financial incentives and relocation support.
Work-Life Balance and Benefits of Practicing in Canada
Canada offers family physicians several advantages over the UK healthcare system:
- Less Bureaucracy: Reduced administrative workload compared to the NHS.
- Flexible Work Schedules: More control over patient volume and hours worked.
- Higher Earning Potential: Competitive salaries, particularly in underserved regions.
- Better Work-Life Balance: Access to outdoor activities, lower stress levels, and improved quality of life.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What are Canada’s immigration targets for 2025 and beyond?
Canada has adjusted its targets, planning for 395,000 permanent residents in 2025, 380,000 in 2026, and 365,000 in 2027 to balance infrastructure and housing demands.
Can UK-trained doctors apply through Express Entry?
Yes, UK family physicians can qualify under the Federal Skilled Worker Program (FSWP) or Canadian Experience Class (CEC). Canada also holds category-based draws for healthcare workers.
What is the Practice Ready Assessment (PRA) program?
PRA programs allow internationally trained physicians to undergo supervised clinical assessment. Successful completion leads to licensure in select provinces.
Do Canadian provinces offer financial incentives for doctors?
Yes, rural and underserved communities provide financial bonuses, relocation assistance, and higher salaries to attract physicians.
How long does it take for a UK-trained doctor to get licensed in Canada?
The licensing process varies but typically takes 12–24 months, depending on provincial requirements and the applicant’s qualifications.
