Our ServicesRenowned for its deep cultural roots and expansive economy, Canada is recognized as one of the preferred destinations among professionals. Unfortunately, communities across Canada are experiencing labour shortages, specifically in the healthcare sector. Significantly, the healthcare field contributes to the key sectors of Canada’s labour force. To address this issue, the country has implemented new changes to Canada’s flagship economic immigration program, including the Provincial Nominee Program (PNP) and Express Entry Program, aiming to attract and retain healthcare professionals. Moreover, officials in Canada are contemplating the introduction of novel elements into their recruitment methodology, targeting a round of invitations for healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, dentists, physiotherapists, and optometrists. This blog will shed light on the initiative to retain healthcare workers and discuss how it aims to transform the healthcare landscape in Canada.
Addressing Critical Healthcare Needs
Annually, medical professionals worldwide are drawn to Canada due to its superior quality of life, enhanced safety, and inclusive atmosphere for individuals from diverse backgrounds. However, like any other country, Canada realizes the critical need for health workers, particularly in rural and remote areas. Last year, as per CTV News, three young individuals in Clinton, Ontario, could not access medical treatment at their local hospital due to an early closure of the facility’s emergency room. Notably, their local emergency department closed at 6 p.m., requiring a 20-kilometre drive for prompt medical support. By introducing a new immigration stream specific to healthcare professionals, Canada is dedicated to addressing such issues.
Express Entry draws were introduced as a digital platform developed by the Canadian government to manage immigration applications from skilled workers. Such a measure is a strategic component of the federal government initiative to target immigration candidates with recent work experience and relevant skill proficiencies to boost its healthcare services. The initial round of selection has already commenced, intending to invite 500 health workers to apply. For the second round, inviting 1,500 workers to apply, facilitating the program’s seamless initiation. This strategic measure will not only facilitate bringing fresh talents into the country’s needs but also contribute to enhancing access to healthcare services for Canadians and their families.
How to Become Eligible for Express Entry Healthcare Draws
Grasping the prerequisites for healthcare-specific draws necessitates initially qualifying for a program managed by Express Entry. It’s crucial to understand that Express Entry is not an immigration program but serves as a system for managing applications across several Canadian immigration programs. To begin, you are required to submit your application to the Express Entry candidate pool, showcasing your interest in immigrating to Canada.
If you fulfill the eligibility criteria, you will receive an invitation from the Canadian government to apply for permanent residence. Remember not to apply for immigration via Express Entry until you obtain an invitation from Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada to apply in an Express Entry draw. However, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada will only accept your application for the Express Entry draws if you qualify for one of these programs:
- Federal Skilled Worker (FSW) — no Canadian experience needed
- Canadian Experience Class (CEC) — Canadian experience required
- Federal Skilled Trades (FST) — specifically designed for skilled trade workers
These programs rely upon a comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) to determine the candidates’ potential. The Candidate Ranking System utilizes a multifactorial algorithm to assess candidates based on age, education, professional experience, and linguistic proficiency and plays a vital role in determining whether or not you will be obtaining the ITA in a round of invitations, also known as a draw. IRCC always issues invitations to the highest-scoring candidates who may fulfill the eligibility criteria of the draw’s category. Healthcare Express Entry draws are category-based draws, and you must hold a minimum of six months of full-time work experience in a similar occupation within the past three years.
Conclusion
To tackle the workforce deficit, particularly in the healthcare domain, the Canadian government is implementing new initiatives that showcase its commitment to attracting and retaining medical professionals globally. These medical professionals are vital to Canadian society, and such a measure will improve access to healthcare services for Canadians and their families. If you’re a healthcare professional looking to make Canada your new home, Immigrationway is here to assist you. Our team excels at deciphering the nuances of immigration legislation. Contact us today to find out how we can help you achieve your dream of living and working in Canada.
