Step-by-Step Guide: Practicing Medicine in Canada as a U.S. Physician

How Can a U.S. Doctor Work in Canada as a Physician?

If you're a U.S.-trained doctor wondering, “How can I work as a physician in Canada?”—you’re not alone. Many American medical professionals consider moving north for better work-life balance, universal healthcare, or a change of scenery. In this guide, we’ll break down the steps you need to take to practice medicine in Canada as a U.S. physician.

Why U.S. Doctors Move to Canada

Before diving into the process, here’s why some doctors make the switch:

• Better work-life balance: Canada often emphasizes manageable hours and wellness.
  
  
• Public healthcare system: Some doctors are drawn to practicing in a single-payer system.
  
  
• Physician shortages: Many provinces, especially in rural areas, have a demand for qualified physicians.
  
  
• Cultural and linguistic similarities: The transition is smoother than moving to other countries.
  
  

But moving to Canada as a doctor isn’t automatic. It involves licensing, assessments, and immigration steps.

Step-by-Step Guide: Practicing Medicine in Canada as a U.S. Physician

1. Understand Canada’s Medical Regulatory System

Each Canadian province and territory has its own medical regulatory authority. For example:

• Ontario: College of Physicians and Surgeons of Ontario (CPSO)
  
  
• British Columbia: College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC (CPSBC)
  
  
• Alberta: College of Physicians and Surgeons of Alberta (CPSA)
  
  

These bodies decide who gets licensed to practice in their province. While there is some national coordination, much of the licensing process happens at the provincial level.

2. Determine Your Eligibility

If you’re a U.S. MD (Doctor of Medicine) with a completed residency in an ACGME-accredited program, you’re already off to a strong start.

Canada recognizes many U.S. medical qualifications, especially from:

• LCME-accredited medical schools (most U.S. MD programs)
  
  
• ACGME residency programs (most U.S. postgraduate training)
  
  

But there are still assessment requirements to fulfill.

3. Pass Required Exams

To be eligible for a full medical license in Canada, U.S. doctors typically must complete the following:

• Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) Part I: A computer-based exam that tests general medical knowledge.
  
  
• Medical Council of Canada Qualifying Examination (MCCQE) Part II: A clinical exam that has been suspended as of 2021. Many provinces have adjusted their requirements accordingly.
  
  

Some provinces waive additional assessments for U.S.-board-certified physicians. Others may still require an Assessment Verification Period (AVP) or Practice Ready Assessment (PRA) for foreign-trained physicians, including Americans.

Tip: Contact the provincial regulatory authority directly to verify exam and credentialing requirements.

4. Apply for Licensure in a Specific Province

Here’s what you’ll typically need to submit:

• Medical school transcripts
  
  
• Proof of postgraduate training
  
  
• Proof of medical licensure in the U.S.
  
  
• Letters of good standing
  
  
• Proof of passing exams (e.g., MCCQE)
  
  

Some provinces offer provisional licenses that let you practice under supervision while completing assessments.

5. Apply for Canadian Immigration

Once you're eligible to work, you need legal status in Canada. Options include:

• Express Entry – Federal Skilled Worker Program: Physicians are a high-demand occupation in Canada. You’ll need to create an online profile, meet point-based criteria, and receive an Invitation to Apply (ITA).
  
  
• Provincial Nominee Program (PNP): If a specific province wants to nominate you, this can speed up your immigration process.
  
  
• Work Permit via Job Offer: If a health authority offers you a position, you can apply for a temporary work permit and later transition to permanent residency.
  
  

Important: Immigration and licensing are separate processes. Being licensed doesn’t automatically mean you can live or work in Canada—you must apply for immigration status too.

6. Secure a Job Offer

Many Canadian provinces are actively recruiting doctors, especially in rural or underserved areas. Check these job boards and resources:

• HealthForceOntario
  
  
• Doctors Manitoba
  
  
• BC Physician Recruitment
  
  
• Government of Canada Job Bank
  
  

Having a job offer can support both your licensing and immigration applications.

Fast-Track or Special Pathways for U.S. Doctors

Some provinces have streamlined licensing for American-trained doctors. For example:

• British Columbia and Nova Scotia have made moves to fast-track U.S. physicians as of 2023.
  
  
• Some provinces recognize ABMS board certification as meeting training standards.
  
  

Check directly with the college in your desired province to see if you qualify for fast-tracking.

Estimated Timeline

Here’s a rough breakdown:

With good planning, it’s possible to begin working in Canada within 12–18 months.

FAQs About Working as a Doctor in Canada

Q: Can I keep my U.S. board certification?
A: Yes. U.S. doctors can remain board-certified by meeting continuing education and practice standards.

Q: Can I work locum (temporary) positions in Canada?
A: Yes, especially in rural areas—but you’ll still need a valid provincial license and immigration status.

Q: What’s the average doctor salary in Canada?
A: It varies by specialty and province. In general:

• Family physician: $250,000–$300,000 CAD
  
  
• Specialist: $350,000–$500,000 CAD
  
  

These figures reflect gross billing, not take-home pay.

Do you need an immigration lawyer to support your application? 

Working in Canada can be a fulfilling path for U.S. physicians. While the process involves multiple steps—licensing, immigration, exams—it’s achievable, especially for those with board certification and clean credentials.

Start by choosing your target province, understanding their licensing rules, and preparing your documents. Many American-trained doctors have successfully made the leap.

 Schedule a strategy session with our legal team to map out the process step-by-step:
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