🇨🇦 Canada Invests $14.3M to Fast-Track International Health Workers into Jobs in 2025

Internationally trained doctors, nurses, pharmacists, and other health practitioners now have a major opportunity to build their careers in Canada. The Government of Canada has launched a new initiative by investing up to $14.3 million in its health sector through the Foreign Credential Recognition Program (FCRP).

This move opens pathways for internationally educated health professionals (IEHPs) to secure jobs and fill essential labour gaps across the country.

Read the official announcement here

Why This Is a Game-Changer for International Health Workers

Canada is facing a healthcare labour shortage — with over 78,600 healthcare job vacancies recorded in the third quarter of 2024. To meet this demand, the government is not just welcoming international workers but actively investing in their success.

This new initiative will support more than 3,500 internationally educated health professionals through:

• Work placements
• Wage subsidies
• Credential recognition support
• Training and mentorship
• One-on-one coaching

The aim is to fast-track IEHPs into the Canadian workforce, allowing them to start practicing sooner and with the right support.

Key Highlights of the New Investment

Here’s what you should know about the $14.3 million funding package:

• The funds are distributed across four organizations helping IEHPs transition into the workforce
• Services include credential recognition, job placements, mentorship, and training programs
• Focused support for women in healthcare, including initiatives like the CarriElles Santé project by the Société économique de l’Ontario (SEO)
• Aligned with Canada’s 2024 Budget, which allocated $50 million over two years to strengthen FCRP in health and residential construction sectors
• Launch of a National Ethical Framework to guide fair and respectful recruitment of international professionals

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What Canada’s Leaders Are Saying

“Internationally educated professionals possess the talent and experience our healthcare sector needs.”
— Steven MacKinnon, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Labour

“This federal funding will help grow capacity in our healthcare system and give relief to workers already providing care to Canadians.”
— Mark Holland, Minister of Health

Canada Needs You — Now More Than Ever

Canada has set a goal to welcome 395,000 new permanent residents in 2025. A significant portion of this intake is expected to be healthcare professionals, as the country responds to an aging population and rising healthcare demands.

This initiative supports provinces like Ontario, British Columbia, and Alberta in recruiting international health workers for hospitals, long-term care homes, and family clinics.

FCRP Support in Action

The Foreign Credential Recognition Program is also streamlining key processes:

• Faster credential recognition and licensing
• Reduced processing times for internationally obtained qualifications
• Improved access to Canadian work experience aligned with your field of study

What International Health Workers Should Do Next

If you’re a trained health professional looking to work in Canada, here’s how you can get started:

1. Begin the credential recognition process through official channels under the FCRP
2. Search for funded programs offering mentorship, coaching, and job placements
3. Visit provincial health recruitment websites to register your interest
4. Apply for permanent residency or Express Entry streams, especially those targeting health occupations
5. Stay informed about ethical hiring practices and recruitment guidelines

Where to Find Healthcare Jobs in Canada

Here are key platforms to explore job openings:

• Job Bank Canada
• HealthForceOntario
• Canada.ca – Immigration and Citizenship
• Provincial health websites:
  • Alberta Health Services
  • BC Health Careers

Conclusion

Canada’s $14.3 million investment in the healthcare sector signals a clear message: skilled international health workers are needed, welcomed, and supported. If you’re ready to contribute and grow your career in one of the world’s most inclusive healthcare systems, now is the time to take action.

View the full government release here

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