Nova Scotia Immigration
Physician
Nova Scotia Physician Stream - Learn eligibility, job-offer must-haves, and step-by-step tactics to turn your Canadian medical career dream into PR success.
1. How the Physician Stream Works
The Nova Scotia Physician Stream operates under the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP). Unlike points-based PNP categories, this stream is job-offer driven -candidates must secure an “approved opportunity” before applying.
1.1 Partnership with NSHA & IWK
Both health authorities issue offers on official letterhead, confirming role, location, and salary. Only positions they cannot fill with Canadian citizens or permanent residents are eligible.
1.2 Physician Stream vs. Labour Market Priorities for Physicians
If you already hold an Express Entry profile, the Labour Market Priorities route may fast-track your PR. However, the dedicated Physician Stream accepts non-Express Entry candidates and often provides smoother employer coordination.
2. Comprehensive Eligibility Requirements
Criterion | Details |
|---|---|
Eligible Occupations | NOC 31102 – General Practitioners & Family Physicians NOC 31100 – Specialists in Clinical & Laboratory Medicine NOC 31101 – Specialists in Surgery |
Employment Offer | Full-time, permanent, on NSHA/IWK letterhead, signed by both parties |
Licensure | Eligibility for licensure with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of Nova Scotia (CPSNS) |
Hospital Privileges | Must be eligible to apply for NSHA & IWK credentials |
Language | Usually exempt if licensed; otherwise CLB 7 recommended |
Settlement Intent | Written intent to reside long-term in Nova Scotia |
2.1 Accepted NOC Codes & Specialties
Only the three physician NOC codes listed above qualify—dentists, veterinarians, or nurse practitioners must apply through alternative streams.
2.2 The “Approved Opportunity” Letter Explained
Your letter must:
- Appear on official NSHA/IWK letterhead.
- Be signed and dated by an authorized medical recruiter.
- Be co-signed by you, acknowledging acceptance.
- Confirm CPSNS licensure eligibility.
- Confirm you can seek credentials and privileges.
- Missing any element leads to automatic refusal, so triple-check formatting and signatures.
3. Step-by-Step Application Process
3.1 Gathering Core Documents
- Passport and civil IDs for all family members
- Signed approved-opportunity letter
- Medical degree & specialist certifications
- CPSNS eligibility confirmation or Assessment pathway documents
- Proof of professional standing from all jurisdictions where you practiced
3.2 Completing the Online Form
Log into the Nova Scotia Nominee Program (NSNP) online portal, upload PDF copies, pay the processing fee (currently CAD 0 for this stream), and submit. Processing averages 3 – 5 weeks.
If nominated, you’ll receive a nomination certificate and work-permit support letter to apply for a one-year employer-specific work permit - letting you start work while IRCC processes your PR file.
4. Crafting a Winning Employment Package
4.1 Licensure with CPSNS
Secure a Decision Letter from CPSNS confirming you meet education, language, and postgraduate training requirements. International medical graduates may need a Practice Ready Assessment.
4.2 Hospital Privileges & Credentials
Simultaneously apply for privileges at facilities where you’ll practise. The NSHA/IWK medical-staff office reviews your specialty, malpractice insurance, and references.
5. Timeline from Job Offer to Permanent Residency
5.1 NSNP Nomination Milestones
Stage | Approx. Duration |
|---|---|
Job-offer negotiation | Varies |
NSNP submission | 1 day |
Provincial review | 3 – 5 weeks |
Nomination certificate issued | Immediate upon approval |
5.2 IRCC PR Processing
After nomination, file your federal PR within six months. Current IRCC processing for PNP non-Express Entry streams averages 8 – 9 months (as of July 2025).
6. Conclusion & Next Steps
The Nova Scotia Physician Stream remains one of Canada’s most physician-friendly immigration pathways. By securing a compliant job offer, aligning licensure early, and submitting a complete online application, you can transition from international candidate to Nova Scotian physician - and permanent resident - in under a year.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a language test mandatory for licensed physicians?
Typically no, but CPSNS may request proof if your training wasn’t in English or French.
Can I change employers after nomination?
Not without NSNP approval; doing so may void your nomination.
Does my spouse need a separate job offer?
No - your nomination allows them to apply for an open work permit.
Are locum tenens contracts eligible?
Only full-time, permanent roles qualify.
How soon can I apply for Canadian citizenship?
Usually after three years of physical presence as a PR.
What if CPSNS requires additional exams?
You can still submit your NSNP application, but licensure must be completed before you begin practice.