Starting July 31, 2025, Canada is making it easier for foreign physicians in Quebec to work in underserved regions. Instead of requiring two separate work permits, eligible international doctors can now apply for a single work permit under code C10, covering both the evaluation period and full-time medical practice. This long-anticipated change reduces red tape and simplifies the path for qualified doctors to help fill critical shortages in Quebec’s healthcare system—especially in remote or medically underserved areas. For physicians abroad who’ve been eyeing Canada, this new rule could be the green light they’ve been waiting for.

Let’s break down exactly what’s changing and how it benefits medical professionals and the province alike.

What’s Changing in 2025 for Foreign Physicians in Quebec

Previously, foreign-trained physicians had to apply for two work permits:

1. The first permit allowed them to complete a 13-week evaluation or adaptation internship, which includes a week of observation.
2. After receiving a restrictive practice permit from the Collège des Médecins du Québec (CMQ), they had to apply for a second work permit—also under code C10—to start their actual medical practice.

Starting July 31, 2025, this two-step process becomes one. A single employer-specific work permit will now cover both:

• The 13-week evaluation/adaptation internship in an approved clinical setting, and
• The ongoing medical practice in a Quebec healthcare facility for up to five years.

This major update applies to applications submitted on or after the new regulation date. Those filed before will still follow the old guidelines.

Who Can Apply Under the New Work Permit Rule?

To qualify for the updated C10 work permit, foreign physicians must:

• Be selected for a clinical evaluation or adaptation period by the CMQ.
• Have a designated employer in a Quebec underserved region.
• Meet all criteria under section R200 of the Immigration and Refugee Protection Regulations.
• Be eligible for a practice permit post-evaluation from the CMQ.

The goal is not just to test clinical knowledge, but to assess adaptability, professional integration, and readiness to serve Quebec’s diverse population.

Why This Matters: Social and Economic Benefits

The administrative code C10 is reserved for foreign nationals whose work can bring significant economic or social benefits to Canada. Physicians fall perfectly into that category, especially in rural Quebec, where doctor shortages are a growing concern. By streamlining the permit process, the government hopes to:

• Speed up the onboarding of skilled physicians.
• Encourage longer-term settlement in underserved areas.
• Improve healthcare access for Quebec residents.

This approach balances immigration needs with healthcare system demands, and makes Canada a more attractive destination for foreign-trained doctors.

Quick Look: Before vs. After July 31, 2025

How ImmigCanada Can Help

At ImmigCanada, we stay ahead of every rule change and immigration update. If you’re a foreign-trained doctor planning to practise in Quebec—or an employer looking to hire—our experts can help you secure the right pathway quickly and correctly. We understand how complex medical immigration can be. That’s why we’re here – to simplify the process for you, step by step.

This new rule is more than a procedural update, it’s a bold step toward improving healthcare outcomes while supporting skilled immigration. For foreign physicians in Quebec, the shift to a single C10 work permit means less bureaucracy, faster integration, and a clearer path to practice. If you’re considering this route, now is the perfect time to start your application. Connect with ImmigCanada today to begin your journey toward a successful medical career in Canada.

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