Canada continues to seek qualified specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine to address healthcare labour shortages. This occupation remains one of the 79 jobs targeted through Canada’s Express Entry occupation-specific draws in 2025. If you are a medical specialist seeking permanent residence in Canada, this guide explains your options and pathways.
On This Page You Will Find
- Why Canada Needs Clinical and Laboratory Medicine Specialists
- NOC 31100 Job Descriptions and Salary Expectations
- Express Entry Immigration Options for Specialists in 2025
- Provincial Nominee Pathways for Medical Specialists
- Step-by-Step Guide to Immigrating as a Specialist in Clinical and Laboratory Medicine
- Frequently Asked Questions
Why Canada Needs Clinical and Laboratory Medicine Specialists
Canada faces an ongoing shortage of healthcare professionals, including specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine. The Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS) reports that between 2022 and 2031, there will be 29,800 job openings for specialist physicians, but only 24,000 qualified job seekers.
An ageing population, increasing complexity in medical conditions, and retirement of current specialists are driving demand. These shortages have made this NOC 31100 occupation a consistent focus of Express Entry draws and Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
NOC 31100 Job Descriptions and Salary Expectations
Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine include:
- Anatomical pathologists
- Cardiologists
- Dermatologists
- Diagnostic radiologists
- Emergency physicians
- Neurologists
- Oncologists
- Pediatricians
- Psychiatrists
- Rheumatologists
- Respirologists
According to Job Bank Canada, the median salary for this profession is $273,510 annually. Salaries range from $100,694 to $557,366 depending on specialisation and region. Job prospects are rated very good across most provinces.
Express Entry Immigration Options for Specialists in 2025
Since May 2023, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has held occupation-specific Express Entry draws, directly targeting healthcare occupations like NOC 31100.
To qualify, candidates must:
- Have at least six months of continuous work experience in this occupation within the past three years.
- Meet other eligibility under Express Entry programs:
- Create an Express Entry profile and receive an invitation to apply through targeted draws.
Provincial Nominee Pathways for Medical Specialists
Many provinces use their PNP streams to nominate healthcare professionals. For example:
- Ontario Human Capital Priorities Stream occasionally targets healthcare occupations.
- British Columbia PNP Healthcare Professional Category is open to specialists with job offers.
- Alberta Opportunity Stream prioritises physicians in demand.
Each province may have unique criteria, including job offers, licensing requirements, or settlement intentions.
Step-by-Step Guide to Immigrating as a Specialist in Clinical and Laboratory Medicine
- Verify Your NOC Code
Confirm your work experience aligns with NOC 31100 by reviewing duties and employment requirements. - Obtain Medical Licensing
Start the process to have your medical credentials recognised in Canada through the Medical Council of Canada and appropriate provincial colleges. - Create an Express Entry Profile
Ensure you meet eligibility for FSW, CEC, or FST, then create a profile and enter the Express Entry pool. - Prepare Documentation
Gather educational credentials, language test results, work experience proof, and proof of licensing steps. - Receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA)
Watch for occupation-specific Express Entry draws or apply through relevant Provincial Nominee Programs. - Submit Permanent Residence Application
After receiving an ITA, submit your application within 60 days, ensuring all documents are accurate and complete. - Move to Canada and Finalise Licensing
After PR approval, finalise any provincial licensing requirements to practise as a specialist in Canada.
FAQ
What is NOC 31100 in Canada?
NOC 31100 refers to specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine, including roles like cardiologists, neurologists, and pathologists. These professionals diagnose and treat complex diseases and often work in hospitals, clinics, or laboratories.
Do I need Canadian medical licensing to apply for Express Entry?
No, licensing is not required to apply through Express Entry. However, to work in your field in Canada, you must secure medical licensure from a provincial regulatory authority after arriving.
How long does Express Entry immigration take for specialists?
Once invited, the processing time for Express Entry applications is typically six months. However, getting an invitation depends on draw schedules and your Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score.
Are job offers required for medical specialists under Express Entry?
A job offer is not mandatory for Express Entry, but it can improve your provincial nomination chances. Some provinces may require a job offer for PNP streams targeting healthcare workers.
Which provinces have the highest demand for clinical and laboratory medicine specialists?
Demand is high nationwide, but particularly in British Columbia, Ontario, Alberta, and Quebec. Job Bank Canada rates job prospects as very good in most provinces, with competitive salaries and strong labour demand.
Do I need a job offer to immigrate to Canada as a specialist in clinical and laboratory medicine?
No, a job offer is not required for occupation-specific Express Entry draws. You can qualify with at least six months of continuous work experience in the past three years. However, many candidates can relocate to Canada with an offer of employment under early entry-related immigration programs. To do this, you would need to be licensed by one of the provincial licensing authorities in the province where you wish to settle.
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