Canada is introducing a new Express Entry category exclusively for doctors with recent Canadian work experience, with invitations expected to begin in early 2026. Announced by IRCC on December 8, 2025, this initiative aims to help practice-ready physicians transition from temporary status to permanent residency through targeted, category-based draws under Express Entry.

The announcement also includes 5,000 reserved permanent residence spaces for licensed doctors nominated by provinces and territories, along with fast-tracked 14-day work permit processing. These measures are designed to accelerate workforce integration while allowing provinces to retain control over medical licensing and job matching.

This reform responds to Canada’s growing physician shortage, as millions of Canadians currently lack access to a regular healthcare provider. By prioritizing doctors through both Express Entry and the Provincial Nominee Program, Canada is signaling a major shift in immigration policy to address healthcare as a national workforce emergency.

Beginning in 2026, at least 115,000 individuals born outside Canada—commonly referred to as “Lost Canadians”—may become eligible for Canadian citizenship under proposed changes to the Citizenship Act.

 These reforms are introduced through Bill C-3, which aims to correct long-standing gaps in Canada’s citizenship laws.

Under the new rules, Canadian parents who were themselves born abroad will be allowed to pass on citizenship to their children born or adopted outside Canada. 

To qualify, parents must meet a connection requirement, demonstrating that they lived in Canada for a minimum of three years before the child’s birth or adoption.

According to Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC), citizenship will be granted to individuals born before the bill comes into force who would have been Canadian citizens if not for restrictive first-generation limits or outdated legislation.

Bill C-3 also addresses flaws introduced by a 2009 citizenship law, which was later ruled unconstitutional by the Ontario Superior Court. Immigration Minister Lena Metlege Diab stated that the legislation will restore fairness, reflect the realities of modern families, and provide clear rules moving forward—while strengthening and protecting Canadian citizenship.