Maple News reports that Canada is facing a growing healthcare crisis, with a projected shortage of about 19,500 family physicians by 2031. This critical gap in healthcare services offers an important opportunity for internationally trained family doctors to immigrate to Canada through the Express Entry system and various Provincial Nominee Programs (PNPs).
According to the Canadian Occupational Projection System (COPS), approximately 48,900 family doctor positions are expected to become available between 2022 and 2031, with only 29,400 eligible professionals anticipated to fill them. This mismatch largely stems from an aging population, driving up the need for reliable and consistent primary healthcare.
Recognizing this urgent requirement, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) in May 2023 began holding occupation-targeted Express Entry draws. Under this new initiative, family physicians — categorized under National Occupation Classification (NOC) code 31102 — are prioritized. To be eligible, candidates must have at least six months of continuous, relevant work experience within the last three years, either in Canada or abroad.
These targeted draws operate under the Federal Skilled Worker (FSW), Federal Skilled Trades (FST), and Canadian Experience Class (CEC) streams, in addition to compatible PNP pathways. Having a valid job offer is not mandatory under Express Entry, but it can significantly boost a candidate’s Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score, especially when applying through provincial programs.
The job market for family doctors is particularly strong across Canada. As of late 2023, there were over 500 active job postings, with Job Bank labeling employment prospects as ‘very good’ in nearly every province, including rural and northern communities. Only Alberta has a slightly more modest, but still favorable, forecast.
Salary expectations for family doctors in Canada are also attractive. The national median salary stands at $216,833 annually, though compensation can range from $76,759 to $451,997 depending on location, experience, and practice environment. Some urban and remote regions even offer additional incentives to attract healthcare talent.
Provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, Nova Scotia, and Saskatchewan actively recruit physicians through their respective PNPs. These province-specific pathways often require a valid job offer and medical licensure in the province, but they also provide faster routes to permanent residence for qualified professionals.
Policy changes have added transparency and coordination to this evolving immigration framework. Amendments to the Immigration and Refugee Protection Act require IRCC to consult with provinces, unions, and employers before introducing new occupational targets. An annual report to Parliament is also mandated, ensuring the immigration system remains responsive to Canada’s economic and healthcare needs.
For internationally trained family doctors looking to immigrate in 2025, the combination of strong demand, competitive wages, and targeted immigration pathways presents a highly promising opportunity to build a stable medical practice and future in Canada.