Canada Announces New Immigration Stream for Health Workers

On June 28, 2023, Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (“IRCC”) highlighted the fact that Canadian communities are in dire need of health workers, as the health field is one of the many sectors of Canada’s labour force is facing unprecedented shortages. Last month, the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration announced changes to Canada’s flagship economic immigration program, Express Entry. Now, the Government of Canada can issue invitations to apply for permanent residency in Canada to candidates from particular fields or with specific skills, training, or language ability.

In order to address the shortage of health workers in the Canadian economy, the Minister of Citizenship and Immigration and the Minister Health announced the use of these new features within Express Entry to dedicate a round of invitations to be sent to health workers, including doctors, nurses, dentists, pharmacists, physiotherapists, and optometrists. The first round invited 500 people. The next round, which is to take place on July 5, 2023, will invite 1,500 people. This phased approach intends to ensure the smooth launch of the program.

These measures will improve access to health care services for Canadians and their families. The category-based selection rounds will continue throughout the year, and more details will continue to be announced about the different categories.

Health care workers are a key component of our Canadian society. If you are a health care professional and/or worker, and want to know about your ability to become a permanent resident in Canada to fulfill this crucial shortage, contact us today.