Canada has once again demonstrated its commitment to strengthening its healthcare workforce by issuing Invitations to Apply (ITAs) for permanent residence to physicians through the Express Entry system. In the latest draw held on June 24, 2026, Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) invited 271 physicians with Canadian work experience to apply for permanent residence.
This draw reflects Canada’s ongoing efforts to address healthcare shortages while providing skilled professionals with a clear pathway to permanent residency. For doctors currently working in Canada or those planning to build a healthcare career in the country, this development presents a valuable immigration opportunity.
At Globalwings Visa Consultants, we closely monitor every immigration update to help aspiring immigrants make informed decisions. Let’s take a closer look at what this latest draw means and how it fits into Canada’s broader immigration strategy for 2026.
Highlights of the June 24, 2026 Express Entry Draw
IRCC conducted a category-based Express Entry draw specifically for physicians with Canadian work experience. The draw issued:
- 271 Invitations to Apply (ITAs)
- Minimum CRS Score Required: 223
- Profile Creation Deadline: Before 6:13 p.m. UTC on May 31, 2026
The Comprehensive Ranking System (CRS) score of 223 is notably lower than many other Express Entry draws, making this category particularly attractive for eligible physicians.
This was the second physician-specific draw conducted in 2026, further emphasizing the Canadian government’s commitment to retaining healthcare professionals already contributing to the country’s medical system.
Why Canada Is Prioritizing Physicians
Canada continues to face significant healthcare challenges, including physician shortages, aging populations, and increasing demand for medical services. Many provinces have reported long wait times and difficulties recruiting healthcare professionals, especially in rural and remote communities.
To address these concerns, the federal government has been actively using category-based selection under Express Entry to invite professionals who can immediately contribute to the labor market.
Physicians are among the most in-demand occupations in Canada, and immigration has become a key tool for filling critical workforce gaps. By targeting doctors who already possess Canadian work experience, Canada ensures that invited candidates are familiar with the country’s healthcare system and can integrate more efficiently.
Understanding the Physician with Canadian Work Experience Category
The physician-specific category was introduced to recognize the unique employment arrangements many doctors have in Canada.
Historically, some physicians faced challenges qualifying under Express Entry because they often worked as self-employed professionals or under contractual arrangements that did not fit traditional employment definitions.
Recent immigration policy adjustments have addressed these concerns by making it easier for physicians with qualifying Canadian work experience to become eligible for permanent residence.
As a result, more doctors can now access Canada’s immigration pathways and establish long-term careers in the country.
Complete Summary of Express Entry Draws in 2026
The June 24 physician draw is part of a larger Express Entry strategy implemented throughout 2026. IRCC has conducted 33 draws so far this year, targeting a variety of candidate categories.
Canadian Experience Class (CEC)
Canadian Experience Class draws have remained one of the government’s primary tools for selecting candidates already living and working in Canada.
Notable CEC draws include:
- June 23: 4,000 ITAs (CRS 516)
- May 27: 3,000 ITAs (CRS 518)
- March 17: 4,000 ITAs (CRS 507)
- February 17: 6,000 ITAs (CRS 508)
- January 7: 8,000 ITAs (CRS 511)
The focus on CEC candidates highlights Canada’s preference for immigrants with proven Canadian work experience.
Provincial Nominee Program (PNP)
Provincial Nominee Program draws continue to play a major role in immigration selection.
Several PNP draws have been conducted throughout the year, with CRS scores typically ranging between 710 and 805 due to the additional provincial nomination points.
French-Language Proficiency Draws
Canada continues promoting Francophone immigration outside Quebec.
French-language proficiency draws have consistently featured lower CRS thresholds, creating additional opportunities for bilingual candidates.
Major French-language draws included:
- February 6: 8,500 ITAs
- March 4: 5,500 ITAs
- May 28: 4,500 ITAs
These draws demonstrate Canada’s commitment to supporting French-speaking communities across the country.
Healthcare and Social Services Draw
On February 20, 2026, IRCC conducted a healthcare and social services draw, inviting:
- 4,000 candidates
- CRS score: 467
This draw reinforced the government’s focus on strengthening Canada’s healthcare sector.
Trades and Senior Management Categories
Other targeted categories introduced during 2026 include:
Trades Draw
- 3,000 ITAs
- CRS Score: 477
Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience
- 250 ITAs
- CRS Score: 429
These category-based draws help Canada address specific labor market needs.
Express Entry Trends in 2026
A review of the year’s draws reveals clear immigration priorities.
Number of Draws by Category
- Provincial Nominee Program: 12 draws
- Canadian Experience Class: 10 draws
- French-Language Proficiency: 6 draws
- Physicians with Canadian Work Experience: 2 draws
- Healthcare and Social Services: 1 draw
- Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience: 1 draw
- Trades: 1 draw
The data indicates that Canada is prioritizing candidates who:
- Already have Canadian work experience
- Have provincial nominations
- Possess French-language skills
- Work in occupations facing labor shortages
Total ITAs Issued in 2026
As of June 2026, Canada has issued 85,067 Invitations to Apply through Express Entry.
Breakdown by Category
Canadian Experience Class
- 41,250 ITAs
French-Language Proficiency
- 30,500 ITAs
Provincial Nominee Program
- 5,405 ITAs
Healthcare and Social Services
- 4,000 ITAs
Trades
- 3,000 ITAs
Physicians with Canadian Work Experience
- 662 ITAs
Senior Managers with Canadian Work Experience
- 250 ITAs
The substantial number of invitations demonstrates Canada’s continued commitment to welcoming skilled immigrants despite evolving economic conditions.
What This Means for Future Applicants
The latest physician draw provides several important insights for prospective immigrants.
Lower CRS Scores Can Still Lead to Invitations
The physician draw’s CRS score of 223 highlights the benefits of category-based selection. Candidates in priority occupations may receive invitations even if their CRS scores are significantly lower than general Express Entry cut-offs.
Canadian Work Experience Remains Highly Valuable
Most draws conducted in 2026 have targeted candidates with Canadian work experience. This trend suggests that gaining work experience in Canada remains one of the strongest pathways toward permanent residence.
Healthcare Professionals Are in High Demand
Doctors, nurses, healthcare specialists, and social service workers continue to be among the most sought-after professionals in Canada.
Healthcare workers considering immigration should closely monitor category-based selection opportunities.
Provincial Nomination Continues to Offer Advantages
Provincial Nominee Programs remain a reliable pathway for candidates seeking additional CRS points and stronger chances of receiving an ITA.
How Physicians Can Improve Their Express Entry Profile
For doctors interested in obtaining Canadian permanent residence, several strategies can enhance competitiveness:
Gain Additional Canadian Experience
The more Canadian work experience a physician has, the stronger the Express Entry profile becomes.
Improve Language Scores
Higher English or French language test results can significantly increase CRS points.
Consider Provincial Nomination
Many provinces operate streams specifically designed for healthcare professionals.
Maintain an Updated Express Entry Profile
Candidates should ensure that all credentials, language scores, and employment information remain current.
Explore Category-Based Selection Eligibility
Understanding whether your occupation qualifies for targeted draws can provide a strategic advantage.
Canada’s Healthcare Future Depends on Skilled Immigrants
Healthcare workforce shortages are expected to remain a major concern across Canada for years to come. Immigration will continue playing a crucial role in addressing these shortages and ensuring access to quality healthcare services.
The latest physician draw sends a clear message: Canada values skilled healthcare professionals and is creating dedicated pathways for them to become permanent residents.
As healthcare demands increase, physicians with Canadian experience are likely to remain a priority within the Express Entry system.
The June 24, 2026 Express Entry draw for physicians with Canadian work experience reflects Canada’s ongoing commitment to strengthening its healthcare system through immigration. With 271 invitations issued and a remarkably low CRS requirement of 223, the draw presents a significant opportunity for eligible physicians seeking permanent residence.
As Canada continues prioritizing healthcare professionals, Canadian work experience candidates, and French-speaking immigrants, prospective applicants should stay informed and prepared. Working with experienced immigration professionals can make a substantial difference in navigating the process successfully.
If you are considering immigration to Canada, now is an excellent time to explore your options and position yourself for future Express Entry opportunities.
Get Professional Immigration Assistance with Globalwings Visa Consultants
Navigating Canada’s immigration system can be complex, especially when understanding category-based Express Entry draws, CRS calculations, eligibility requirements, and provincial nomination opportunities.
At Globalwings Visa Consultants, our experienced immigration professionals help applicants identify the best pathways to Canadian permanent residence. Whether you are a physician, healthcare worker, skilled professional, student, or business applicant, our team can guide you through every stage of the immigration process.
Our Services Include:
- Express Entry Profile Creation
- CRS Score Assessment
- Provincial Nominee Program Guidance
- Canada PR Applications
- Work Permit Assistance
- Study Visa Services
- Visitor Visa Applications
- Documentation Support
- Immigration Consultation
Our goal is to simplify the immigration journey and maximize your chances of success.
Contact Globalwings Visa Consultants
Email: Info@globalwingsimmigrations.com
Phone: +91-9355339924
Connect with our expert immigration advisors today and take the next step toward achieving your Canadian immigration goals.
