Moving to Canada as a US Healthcare Professional: Legal Considerations and Application Tips
How to Immigrate to Canada as a Physician: The Ultimate Guide for US Healthcare Providers
By Dr. Rob Beck, Host of The Interesting MD Podcast
Thinking about making the leap north into Canada’s healthcare system? You’re not alone! Over the past year, my inbox has been flooded with questions from US-trained physicians—and other healthcare professionals—considering immigrating to Canada. Whether it’s concern about reproductive freedoms, political climate, or simply a quest for better work/life balance, the interest is stronger than ever. On Episode 39 of the Interesting MD Podcast, I sat down with Attorney Ravi Jain, one of Canada’s most recognized immigration lawyers, to break down the practical steps, pitfalls, and opportunities for doctors wanting to move to Canada. If you’re thinking about making the change, this post is for you.
Why Are US Physicians Moving to Canada?
The reasons are as diverse as our listeners themselves. Some want to offer a safe haven for their children, some are motivated by political or social reasons, and others just want a change of scenery. Many have Canadian family connections, and plenty are attracted to Canada’s healthcare system and its progressive attitudes. Attorney Ravi Jain noted that American interest is at a historic high, particularly among doctors looking for career flexibility and stability.
Understanding the Canadian Immigration Process for Healthcare Professionals
Step 1: Know Your Options
Immigration is governed both federally and provincially. The main routes for physicians are:
Express Entry (Federal System): This is the most streamlined and flexible pathway. You’re assessed based on your “human capital” (education, experience, language proficiency, etc.), not just your job offer. Once accepted, you’re a permanent resident—free to live and work anywhere in Canada. And yes, this is truly independent of licensing and provincial approvals.
Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP): Specific provinces may nominate you based on their need for healthcare workers. You typically need a job offer first, but once nominated, it’s a major boost to your chances of approval.
Family Sponsorship: If you have a Canadian spouse or parent, your process may be different—potentially easier.
Step 2: Get Your Credentials Assessed
Surprisingly, even American-trained doctors need credential assessments—by the Medical Council of Canada—not just attestations from state medical boards or colleges. You’ll also be required to take an English or French language proficiency exam, even if your entire education was in English!
Step 3: Building Your Application Profile
Express Entry is like creating an online dating profile—but for Canada! You put in your credentials, experience, test scores, and let the system pick the top candidates in targeted draws (yes, physicians are currently a focus!). Accuracy is crucial—a misrepresentation or omission could mean a five-year ban from Canada.
Step 4: Licensing and Jobs
Immigration is separate from medical licensing. After getting permanent residency, you will need to be licensed by a provincial college to practice medicine—BC, Ontario, Alberta, etc. Many provinces are highly receptive right now, and recruiting liaisons can help, but beware of relying solely on well-meaning but non-expert advice!
Benefits for Physicians (and Their Families)
Permanent Residency = Flexibility: You can pick up locums, switch jobs, or work in rural/urban areas—no need to stick to an employer or province.
Education for Kids: As a permanent resident, your children can study at Canadian tuition rates—often a tenth of what you’d pay as an international student.
Healthcare Coverage: Full Canadian health coverage for you and your dependents.
Pitfalls to Watch Out For
Application Accuracy: Canada’s immigration system is strict—missing paperwork or inaccuracies can result in bans.
Provincial Nominee Restrictions: If nominated by a province, you MUST land there first. You’re free to move after, but optics matter.
Work Permits: Open work permits aren’t automatic—you’ll need to fit specific criteria (spouse in grad school, etc.). Closed permits tie you to one employer, but you can hold more than one.
FAQs and Pro Tips
How long does Express Entry take?
Plan for about a year, start to finish. Six months is the best-case scenario.
Can I start the federal and provincial process at the same time?
Yes! Some PNP streams are “Express Entry aligned.” Getting nominated can turbocharge your application with extra points.
Do I need an immigration lawyer?
Honestly, yes. The system is complex, always changing, and one small error can have huge consequences. Attorney Ravi Jain compares it to asking a doctor for a diagnosis—go early, get the right advice.
Final Thoughts
Canada is actively seeking physicians and healthcare professionals, and the process, while complex, is navigable with proper guidance. Thousands of doctors make this move each year. If you want personalized advice or an expert by your side, reach out to professionals—don’t try to do surgery on yourself!
If you enjoyed this post and want more insider info, medical career hacks, and wellness tips, subscribe to The Interesting MD Podcast on YouTube and wherever you get your podcasts. Keep those questions and emails coming—I truly love hearing from you!
Resources & Contact:
Attorney Ravi Jain: Ravi@jainimmigrationlaw.com, jainimmigrationlaw.com, 416-840-4172
Podcast: Interesting MD on YouTube
Dr. Rob Beck: rob@interestingmd.com
Stay curious, stay balanced, and see you next week on The Interesting MD!