Self-Employed Doctors, This Is Your Chance to Move to Ontario

Ontario's healthcare system is actively recruiting skilled physicians, and for those practicing independently, the path to immigration has become significantly more accessible. Recent updates to immigration programs are designed to attract self-employed doctors, streamlining the application process and opening new doors for international medical professionals.

If you are a self-employed physician considering a move to Canada, read on to discover how you can make your dream of practicing medicine in Ontario a reality.

Does Ontario Need Physicians?

Ontario has made these immigration changes to address a growing shortage of physicians. Canada’s aging population and increasing demand for healthcare services have intensified the need for more medical professionals. Several provinces, including Prince Edward Island, Saskatchewan, Newfoundland and Labrador, and Manitoba, have introduced incentives to attract skilled healthcare workers.

To further support physician immigration, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) launched category-based selection draws in 2023 for candidates with experience in high-demand occupations, including healthcare. The latest IRCC Immigration Levels Plan, announced in October 2024, highlights healthcare, trades, and French-language proficiency as priority categories in 2025. These efforts demonstrate Canada’s commitment to addressing physician shortages and ensuring quality healthcare access nationwide.

Updates to Ontario’s Immigration Requirements for Self-Employed Physicians

Ontario’s updated immigration policy removes a major obstacle that previously prevented many self-employed immigrant physicians from obtaining Canadian permanent residency. As a result, more physicians can now establish their practices in Ontario, helping to improve healthcare access across the province.

Self-Employment Work Experience

Under the updated regulations, Ontario has made self-employment work experience count toward eligibility for certain immigration streams. Specifically, self-employed physicians can now apply through the following Ontario Immigrant Nominee Program (OINP) pathways:

• Express Entry: Human Capital Priorities Stream
• Express Entry: French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream
• Employer Job Offer: Foreign Worker Stream

Previously, many physicians in Ontario struggled to meet the eligibility criteria because they were considered self-employed rather than employees. These new modifications ensure that self-employed medical professionals no longer face this barrier, opening doors for them to secure Canadian permanent residency.

Eligibility Requirements for Self-Employed Physicians

The OINP now allows self-employed physicians to count their work experience under specific National Occupational Classification (NOC) codes. Eligible applicants must demonstrate self-employment experience under one of the following categories:

• NOC 31100: Specialists in clinical and laboratory medicine
• NOC 31101: Specialists in surgery
• NOC 31102: General practitioners and family physicians

These changes align with federal policies and create a more inclusive immigration framework for medical professionals. If physicians meet the outlined requirements, they can use their work experience to qualify for these OINP streams.

Express Entry Changes for Self-Employed Physicians

Previously, self-employed doctors were often excluded from Express Entry due to work experience restrictions. Now, they can apply for permanent residency without requiring an employment contract, making immigration more accessible for independent practitioners.

• Human Capital Priorities Stream: Self-employed doctors can now use their years of independent practice to qualify for Express Entry draws under Ontario’s Human Capital Priorities Stream. This change allows more physicians to enter the system without needing traditional employment contracts.
• French-Speaking Skilled Worker Stream: French-speaking physicians have an additional advantage, as Ontario offers a dedicated pathway for Francophone skilled workers. This stream increases their chances of receiving an invitation to apply for permanent residency while also promoting bilingual healthcare services in the province.
• No Job Offer Requirement: Unlike before, self-employed doctors no longer need a job offer from a Canadian employer to qualify for Express Entry. This update ensures that independent practitioners can leverage their experience to secure permanent residency without additional employment conditions.
• Higher CRS Score Consideration: Physicians are highly valued in category-based Express Entry draws, meaning they may receive higher Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) scores. Given Canada’s focus on recruiting healthcare professionals, self-employed doctors have a better chance of receiving an invitation to apply.
• Faster Immigration Processing: Ontario prioritizes healthcare workers in its immigration programs, leading to quicker application processing times. Self-employed physicians can now take advantage of this priority system to secure their Canadian permanent residency faster than before.

How Pelican Migration Consultants Can Assist Doctors in the Middle East Migrate to Canada

Navigating the Canadian immigration process can be complex, especially for self-employed physicians. Pelican Migration Consultants offers expert guidance to help doctors in the Middle East successfully transition to a medical career in Canada.

• Personalized Immigration Strategy: Our team assesses each physician’s qualifications and recommends the most suitable immigration pathway, whether through Express Entry, OINP, or another program. This ensures a tailored approach for each applicant.
• Credential Recognition Assistance: Understanding Canadian licensing requirements is essential for medical professionals. We provide guidance on obtaining the necessary certifications from the Medical Council of Canada (MCC) and the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO).
• Application and Documentation Support: The immigration process requires extensive documentation, from proving work experience to meeting eligibility criteria. Our experts assist in preparing and submitting complete, error-free applications to maximize approval chances.
• Job Market Integration and Networking: Although self-employed physicians may not need a job offer, connecting with healthcare networks is beneficial. We provide resources and contacts to help doctors integrate into Canada’s medical community and establish their practice.
• Post-Arrival Settlement Services: Relocating to a new country comes with challenges, from finding housing to understanding healthcare regulations. Our settlement services help doctors and their families adjust smoothly to life in Canada.

With our expertise, self-employed physicians can navigate the immigration process confidently and establish a successful medical career in Ontario.

Conclusion

Ontario’s recent policy changes have made it easier than ever for self-employed doctors to immigrate and contribute to Canada’s healthcare system. With streamlined pathways and fewer restrictions, independent physicians can now take advantage of Canada’s demand for medical professionals.

If you’re a self-employed doctor in the Middle East looking to move to Ontario, Pelican Migration Consultants is here to guide you every step of the way. Contact us today for a free online assessment and begin your journey to Canadian permanent residency!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Can I apply for Express Entry as a self-employed doctor without a job offer?
   Yes! Ontario now allows self-employed doctors to use their independent work experience for Express Entry, meaning a job offer is no longer required.
2. What are the licensing requirements for internationally trained doctors in Ontario?
   You must be registered with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO) and may need to complete exams or supervised practice, depending on your qualifications.
3. How long does the immigration process take for self-employed doctors?
   Processing times vary, but Ontario prioritizes healthcare workers. Express Entry applicants can receive PR within 6–12 months, while OINP processing may take longer.
4. Is my family eligible to immigrate with me?
   Yes, your spouse and children can be included in your application, granting them permanent residency and access to healthcare, education, and other benefits in Canada.
5. Do I need an immigration consultant to apply?
   While not mandatory, working with a consultant like Pelican Migration Consultants can significantly simplify the process, ensuring accuracy and increasing approval chances.

Take the Next Step

With Ontario's recent immigration updates, self-employed doctors now have a clear pathway to Canadian permanent residency. If you're ready to move to Canada, Pelican Migration Consultants can guide you through every step of the application process.

Get started today with a free assessment and let us help you achieve your Canadian dream!