Canada Eases Permanent Residence Pathway for Nigerian Doctors in 2026

Canada is introducing a major immigration reform that will open a clearer path to permanent residence for internationally trained doctors, a move expected to benefit a significant number of Nigerian medical professionals already practising in the country. The policy, scheduled to take effect in early 2026, is part of a broader strategy to close widening gaps in Canada’s healthcare workforce.

A new Express Entry category dedicated specifically to physicians will be launched, targeting doctors who have completed at least one year of recent work experience in eligible medical positions within Canada. Authorities say this tailored stream will ensure that practice-ready professionals are retained rather than lost to bureaucratic hurdles that previously hindered their transition from temporary status to permanent residency.

The Canadian government confirmed that 5,000 federal admission slots will be reserved annually for provinces and territories seeking to nominate licensed doctors with job offers. These spaces are separate from regular provincial nominee quotas, signalling the urgency with which the country is approaching its healthcare staffing shortages.

In addition to dedicated admission spaces, nominated doctors will qualify for accelerated work-permit processing, with permits issued in as little as 14 days. This rapid timeline is designed to prevent disruptions in patient care and ensure that hospitals and clinics maintain adequate staffing levels throughout the transition period.

Officials say the reforms reflect Canada’s renewed push to strengthen its health system by attracting and retaining top global talent. They emphasised that simplifying residency access for foreign-trained doctors is essential as the country faces increased healthcare demands driven by an ageing population.

Healthcare policymakers note that Nigerian doctors, already among the largest groups of foreign-trained physicians in Canada stand to benefit from the new measures. Many have worked in underserved communities, filling roles that would otherwise remain vacant due to local shortages.

Medical professionals and industry groups have welcomed the announcement, describing it as a timely intervention that will stabilise the workforce and improve patient outcomes. They argue that permanent residency offers security, encourages long-term commitment, and fosters a diverse healthcare environment.

Canada’s decision signals a shift toward more targeted immigration policies that prioritise essential skills. For many Nigerian doctors seeking stability and long-term opportunities abroad, the new pathway presents a clearer, faster, and more predictable route to building a medical career in Canada.