Maple News reports that Canada continues its strategic push to attract highly qualified medical professionals, with specialist surgeons remaining a priority occupation under the 2025 Express Entry system. With growing healthcare needs and demographic shifts, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) is actively targeting skilled surgeons in its category-based selection draws.
The shortage of surgeons in Canada is a critical concern. According to projections by the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS), the country will face a shortfall of approximately 5,800 surgical specialists by 2031. This gap is driven by an aging population requiring more complex surgical care and an increasing number of retirements among current practitioners.
The employment outlook for surgeons is very promising across several provinces. Ontario, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, Nova Scotia, New Brunswick, and Prince Edward Island report ‘very good’ prospects, while Alberta and Quebec rate as ‘good’. The median annual salary for a surgical specialist in Canada is approximately $273,510, with experienced professionals earning up to $557,366, depending on region and qualifications.
Surgeons looking to immigrate to Canada through Express Entry must meet several criteria. Eligible candidates must have at least six months of continuous, relevant work experience in surgery within the past three years, either in Canada or abroad. They must also align their credentials with NOC 31101 – Specialists in Surgery. This experience may qualify them under programs such as the Federal Skilled Worker Program, Canadian Experience Class, or through a Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) linked to Express Entry.
IRCC strengthened its category-based selection for healthcare workers in 2023, and this momentum continues in 2025. Surgeons remain among the 79 priority occupations targeted under this model, a testament to Canada’s long-term healthcare strategy.
Besides the Express Entry stream, various PNPs offer additional pathways for surgeons, especially in provinces where local healthcare systems are under strain. These streams are tailored to attract and retain medical professionals by offering provincial nominations that fast-track permanent residence.
Surgeons already in Canada as temporary workers or recent post-graduation employees may also be eligible, provided their experience is full-time and focused on their surgical specialty. Language proficiency and credentials equivalency through national medical certification bodies are also essential components of a successful application.
With thousands of roles to fill and a healthcare system under pressure, Canada’s doors remain open to skilled surgeons who can bring their expertise to support the country’s evolving medical landscape. As the need mounts, this presents a compelling opportunity for global talent in surgery to build a future in Canada.
For ongoing updates, eligibility requirements, and expert-driven insights, Maple News is your trusted source for immigration and healthcare news in Canada.