Canada Holds Second Express Entry Draw for Physicians with Canadian Work Experience

Canada continues to prioritize healthcare professionals through its Express Entry system, issuing invitations to physicians already contributing to the country’s healthcare workforce.

On June 24, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) conducted a targeted Express Entry draw for Physicians with Canadian Work Experience, inviting 271 candidates to apply for permanent residence.

To receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA), candidates were required to have:

* A minimum Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 223; and
* Submitted their Express Entry profile before 6:13 p.m. UTC on May 31, 2026.

What This Draw Means

This latest draw demonstrates Canada’s continued commitment to addressing physician shortages across the country. By targeting physicians already working in Canada, IRCC is helping healthcare professionals transition from temporary status to permanent residence while strengthening Canada’s healthcare system.

The CRS cut-off score of 223 is significantly lower than recent Canadian Experience Class and Provincial Nominee Program draws, highlighting the government’s desire to retain qualified medical professionals who are already serving Canadian communities.

A Growing Opportunity for Physicians

The physician category was introduced to provide a more accessible pathway to permanent residence for doctors who have gained valuable Canadian work experience. Many internationally trained physicians face challenges navigating immigration pathways despite their essential role in healthcare delivery.

Targeted physician draws help recognize the importance of these professionals and ensure Canada can continue attracting and retaining the medical talent needed to support patients nationwide.

Who May Benefit?

Physicians who have accumulated eligible Canadian work experience and meet Express Entry requirements may benefit from future category-based selection draws.

These targeted rounds offer a unique opportunity for physicians whose CRS scores may not be competitive enough under general Express Entry draws but whose skills are in high demand across Canada.

What Should Physicians Do Next?

If you are a physician currently working in Canada, now is the time to:

✔ Review your Express Entry profile for accuracy and completeness.

✔ Ensure your language test results remain valid.

✔ Verify that your Canadian work experience is properly documented.

✔ Explore your eligibility for physician-focused category-based draws and other permanent residence pathways.

As Canada continues to prioritize healthcare occupations, physicians may see additional opportunities through Express Entry and provincial immigration programs.

How McBean Immigration Consulting Can Help

At McBean Immigration Consulting Inc., we specialize in helping healthcare professionals navigate Canada’s immigration system. Whether you are a physician, nurse, healthcare aide, or other medical professional, our team can assess your eligibility and develop a strategy tailored to your immigration goals.

If you are interested in learning whether you qualify for Express Entry or other pathways to permanent residence, contact McBean Immigration Consulting Inc. today to schedule a consultation.

McBean Immigration Consulting Inc.

Helping Healthcare Professionals Build Their Future in Canada.