First-Ever Express Entry Draw for Physicians with Canadian Work Experience

Canada has reached a major immigration milestone by launching its first-ever Express Entry draw exclusively for physicians with Canadian work experience. This targeted draw highlights Canada’s urgent need for skilled healthcare professionals while creating a clearer, faster pathway to permanent residence for eligible doctors.

By prioritizing physicians already contributing to the healthcare system, Canada is strengthening workforce stability and rewarding local experience. This process makes it easier for eligible professionals to immigrate to Canada as a doctor through targeted PR pathways.

Book a Free Consultation

However, in the previous draw, Express Entry invited 6,000 skilled candidates through the Canadian Experience Class (CEC). But from January to February, IRCC invites 30,848 candidates who live and settle in Canada.

Express Entry Latest Draw Results

Canada conducts its first-ever Express Entry draw for physicians with Canadian work experience on February 19, 2026, inviting 391 candidates with a minimum CRS score of 169.

Type of Draw: Physicians With Canadian Work Experience

• Draw Number: #397
• Date of Round: February 19, 2026
• Number of ITAs Issued: 391
• CRS Score of Lowest-Ranked Candidate Invited: 169
• Tie-Breaking Rule: January 03, 2026, at 03:25:14 UTC

If more than one candidate has the lowest score, the cut-off is based on the date and time they submitted their Express Entry profiles.

Calculate Your CRS Score

Eligible NOC Codes for Physicians in 2026

Check out the eligible NOC codes for physicians in 2026, including specialists and family doctors, to see which occupations qualify for the Express Entry draw.

About Physician With Canadian Work Experience

Physicians with Canadian Work Experience are internationally trained or Canadian-trained medical doctors who have legally worked in Canada in recognized physician occupations and gained practical experience within the Canadian healthcare system.

This work experience is usually obtained through authorized employment after meeting provincial or territorial licensing and regulatory requirements, including registration with a medical regulatory authority.

Having Canadian work experience demonstrates a physician’s ability to meet Canada’s professional standards, adapt to local healthcare practices, and effectively serve patients in a multicultural environment. It also indicates familiarity with Canadian medical ethics, clinical protocols, and workplace expectations.

Because Canada continues to face physician shortages across provinces, especially in primary care and specialized fields, immigration programs such as the Express Entry program prioritize physicians with Canadian work experience.

This approach helps retain skilled doctors who already contribute to the healthcare system while offering them a faster, more reliable pathway to permanent residence.

Subscribe for FREE and stay updated
with the latest Canada Immigration News!

Source: canada.ca

Tags: Express Entry Express Entry Latest Draw Express Entry Program Physicians With Canadian Work Experience Express Entry Draw Canada Immigration Federal Skilled Worker Program Latest Express Entry Draw Canada Immigration News