March 19, 2026 Edition
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Your Immigration Update
Canada needs more doctors, and that is opening more doors for internationally trained physicians. Nearly 14% of people in Canada do not have a regular family doctor, and the country is facing a major shortage of family physicians.
This means that for doctors who want to work in Canada, there are more work permits and permanent residence options available. But immigration is only one part of the process. Doctors also need to be licensed in the province where they want to practise.
In this article, we explore everything you need to know about working in Canada as a physician, including how licensing works and the work permit and permanent residence options available in 2026. Although we focus primarily on U.S. physicians because of the special pathways available to them, doctors from around the world can also benefit from this guide.
January 2026 data show that Canada is seeing fewer new international students and workers arriving, even compared to last year's already low numbers. As IRCC moves ahead with its plan to reduce the number of temporary residents. Student arrivals dropped 37%, while worker arrivals fell by 20%, for an overall decline of 28%.
At the same time, more than 14,000 temporary residents became permanent residents in January, making up about 60% of all PR admissions. The trend suggests fewer new arrivals but a greater focus on helping people already in Canada stay long-term.
It may be harder to come to Canada as a new student or worker in 2026, but those already in Canada may have a better chance of staying permanently.
Immigration In The Media
British Columbia says its push to recruit U.S.-trained health-care workers is working. One year after launching the campaign, more than 400 doctors, nurses, nurse practitioners, and other health professionals have accepted jobs across the province. That is nearly triple the number from the last update.
The province also says it received more than 2,750 applications and that more than 1,300 U.S.-trained health workers have registered to practise in B.C. The big reason seems to be faster, simpler licensing rules. It’s a sign that Canada is still looking for skilled health-care workers, especially in places that need more care.
Did Someone Say Draw
Ontario held multiple draws on March 18, 2026, targeting physicians, master’s and PhD graduates, along with applicants in select occupations.
Money Matters: How Much Does It Really Cost to Have a Baby in Canada?
Having a baby in Canada as a permanent resident can be a lot more affordable than people expect, especially when your medical care is covered by provincial health insurance.
But there are still plenty of non-medical costs:
Pregnancy still came with extra costs, like vitamins, more groceries, and maternity clothes.
Buying secondhand made a huge difference, especially for baby clothes, bath items, and nursery furniture.
Some items were worth buying new, especially car seats, for safety reasons.
Community support helped lower costs, with some larger items borrowed or received as gifts.
The biggest lesson is that babies do not need everything being marketed to new parents. With secondhand finds, a few thoughtful splurges, and a focus on essentials, it is possible to prepare without overspending.
And finally, congratulations to Stephanie and her family. Stephanie prepared this piece for our audience before beginning her maternity leave, and we’re so grateful she did. We wish her a wonderful leave and look forward to welcoming her back later in the year. We miss you already, Stephanie!
Career Moves: How to Use Salary Ranges in Canadian Job Postings
More Canadian job postings now include salary ranges, giving job seekers a useful advantage. Instead of guessing what an employer might pay, you can use the posted range to decide what salary makes sense for your experience and prepare to explain why.
Our article also reminds readers that pay is only one part of the offer. Vacation time, bonuses, benefits, and remote-work flexibility can matter, too. The big takeaway is that salary transparency gives you better information, so you can negotiate with more confidence.
Today's Tip: How Hard Is It to Find a Family Doctor in Canada?
Finding a family doctor in Canada can be a challenge. Start looking for as soon as you can, but have a backup plan. In many parts of Canada, it can take a long time to get matched with a doctor, especially in places like B.C., Quebec, and the territories.
Put your name on the official provincial waitlist, but do not stop there. Check local clinic websites often, look for newly opened practices, and ask in community groups for leads. While you wait, remember that you still have other options for care, including walk-in clinics, urgent care, telehealth services, and 8-1-1. Having a family doctor makes it easier to manage ongoing health issues and get referrals, but if you cannot find one right away, you are not out of options.
