From a professional licensing perspective, American doctors who earned their medical degree in the US are in luck as US medical school education is recognized across Canada. Nonetheless, not all US residency training programs will be recognized as equivalent to Canadian residencies. Also, each province’s college has different regulations regarding the process for becoming licensed as a medical doctor in Canada. Medical exams may need to be taken, and/or US doctors may have to practise in Canada while being supervised for a length of time prior to becoming eligible for full Canadian accreditation as a doctor.
From an immigration perspective, American doctors can move to Canada on a temporary, employer-specific work permit. An offer of employment from a hospital, clinic, or other employer is required to receive this work permit. Temporary work permits may be renewed.
American doctors moving to Canada on a permanent basis typically apply for permanent residency via the Federal Skilled Worker – Express Entry pathway. To be successful in the Federal Skilled Worker program, you must meet certain minimum requirements regarding work experience, language ability, and education. Your application is ultimately assessed based on six factors: age, education, work experience, French and/or English language skills, your likelihood of adapting to Canada successfully, and whether or not you have a valid job offer.
To improve your chances of receiving a Canadian job offer, the Canadian government offers the Job Bank program. Federal Skilled Worker – Express Entry applicants may register with Job Bank, which is a government-run tool that helps Canadian employers find qualified immigrant employees.
Those who are highly ranked through the Express Entry application process are invited to apply for permanent residency in Canada as Federal Skilled Workers. If you already have a job offer from a Canadian employer, you may be invited to apply for permanent residency.
Processing of Express Entry applicants is done within six months, making this immigration route one of the quickest ways to gain permanent residency in Canada.
Permanent residency is attractive as it allows American doctors to remain in Canada indefinitely. Moreover, permanent residency leads to Canadian citizenship, which some American doctors may ultimately desire.